What is the required sprinkler water supply capacity for a one-story structure with less than 2,000 square feet?

The required sprinkler water supply capacity for a one-story structure with less than 2,000 square feet is based on fire safety standards that dictate how long a sprinkler system must be able to function effectively to control or extinguish a fire.

In this case, a duration of 7 minutes is specified, which reflects the typical requirements for smaller buildings. This short duration is appropriate because smaller structures often have less fire load and can be managed safely with a limited supply of water. By having 7 minutes of available water supply, the sprinkler system has the capability to either control a fire until firefighters arrive or eliminate it completely, thus enhancing the overall safety of the building's occupants and minimizing potential damage.

The other options, which suggest longer durations, are typically more applicable to larger or more complex structures that require additional time for firefighting resources to respond or for more substantial fires that could develop in larger spaces.