What factor is critical in determining the effectiveness of fire suppression systems?

The design and placement of the fire suppression system is critical in determining its effectiveness because it directly impacts how well the system can detect, control, and extinguish a fire. Proper design ensures that the system is tailored to the specific needs of the building or area it serves, taking into account factors such as layout, occupancy type, and potential fire hazards.

For example, an effective sprinkler system must be strategically installed to provide adequate coverage and respond quickly to fire conditions. If the system is not designed properly, or if it's inadequately placed (such as in dead spots where fire may not be detected), it can significantly reduce the system's ability to control or extinguish a fire promptly.

In contrast, while the type of building materials can influence how a fire spreads, and the speed of the fire department response is essential for overall fire management, these factors may not necessarily dictate the immediate effectiveness of the suppression system itself. The color of fire alarm signals is irrelevant to the suppression system's performance. Thus, the design and placement of the fire suppression system are pivotal to its functionality and overall success in fire scenarios.