In 2001, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Central Sprinkler Company (now part of Tyco Fire Products) announced a voluntary replacement program for 35 million fire sprinklers with O-ring seals. The program also covered O-ring models sold by Gem Sprinkler Company and Star Sprinkler, Inc.
These sprinklers were recalled because the O-ring seals degrade faster than acceptable industry standards. Corrosion or contaminants in water—like minerals or salts—can prevent the sprinkler heads from activating in a fire.
Where these sprinklers were installed
These recalled sprinklers were installed countrywide in both “wet” and “dry” systems. They can be found in a wide variety of buildings, including:
- Apartments and residential complexes
- Hospitals and nursing homes
- Schools and day care facilities
- Supermarkets and warehouses
- Parking garages and office buildings
How to identify recalled sprinklers
Important: Do not attempt to remove or disturb sprinkler heads while checking your system. Instead, try these methods:
- Check system records: Installation and maintenance documents often list sprinkler models
- Inspect spare head boxes: Look for extra sprinkler heads stored for replacements
- Ask a fire sprinkler contractor: They can visually inspect your system safely
When identifying sprinklers from the voluntary replacement program, look for these markings:
- ‘CENTRAL’ or ‘CSC’—Central Sprinkler Company
- ‘G’ inside a triangle—Gem Sprinkler Company
- ‘STAR’ or a star-shaped symbol—Star Sprinkler, Inc.
If any of these sprinklers are present, they should be replaced immediately with an equivalent, approved alternative. This list of recalled sprinkler heads can help you verify the models affected.
Why it’s still important
The replacement program officially ended on Aug. 31, 2007, but many buildings may still have these sprinklers in place. The risk is real: A recent fire on July 13, 2025, in an assisted living home in Fall River, Massachusetts, resulted in ten deaths and thirty injuries. Investigators discovered that the building had recalled sprinklers, which may not have activated properly.
This incident highlights the urgent need for building owners to check for Central recalled sprinkler heads and take action if any are found.
- ‘CENTRAL’ or ‘CSC’ verifies it was manufactured by Central Sprinkler Company.
- ‘G’ in a triangle symbol verifies it was manufactured by Gem Sprinkler Company
- ‘STAR’ or a star-shaped symbol stamped on the metal sprinkler frame or the deflector verifies it was manufactured by Star Sprinkler, Inc.
