Is a software-programmed disconnect allowed as a substitute for a physical disconnect switch in a clean agent system?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not Specified
• D. Only in Small Systems

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that a physical disconnect provides a guaranteed, independent way to isolate the clean agent system. Relying on software to disconnect hinges on electronics, power, and network stability—any software fault, cyber issue, or communication failure could prevent a disconnection when it’s needed. A manual, physical switch offers a visible, tangible means that remains operable even if power is lost or systems are compromised, ensuring authorized personnel can reliably disable the system for maintenance or in an emergency. Because this reliability and verifiability are essential, you cannot substitute a software disconnect for a physical one. There isn’t a size-based exception, and a true/false statement that a software disconnect is acceptable is not correct.