A common cause for sprinkler discharge at schools or hotels is ______________.

Mechanical damage is a common cause for sprinkler discharge at schools or hotels due to the high level of activity and foot traffic in these environments. In places like schools and hotels, equipment and fixtures can be damaged by accidental impacts from people, furniture, or cleaning equipment. Such impacts can loosen or break sprinkler heads and piping, potentially leading to unintended discharge of water.

In educational institutions and hospitality venues, there are numerous moving parts — from students and staff in schools to guests and service personnel in hotels. This increases the likelihood of mechanical damage occurring, especially in high-traffic areas.

While freezing, corrosion, and overheating can indeed affect sprinkler systems, mechanical damage is specifically tied to the physical interactions in busy environments, making it a particularly relevant concern in these settings.