What is the purpose of using an impairment tag on a system?

Using an impairment tag on a system serves the critical role of informing personnel about the operability status of that particular system. When a fire protection system, such as a sprinkler system or fire alarm, is temporarily out of service due to maintenance, testing, or any other reason, an impairment tag is placed to clearly communicate that the system is not functional at that moment. This helps ensure that all personnel, including firefighters and building occupants, are aware that the system may not provide the expected level of fire protection, allowing them to take necessary precautions.

In contrast, while a flag for repair need or maintenance schedules is important, they don't capture the specific urgency of impaired operational status. Similarly, indicating fire hazard risk pertains to a broader assessment of safety rather than the specific status of operational fire safety systems. Therefore, the use of an impairment tag is crucial for maintaining safety protocols and ensuring that everyone is informed about the state of fire protection measures.