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ALOA AFL practice questions

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Question 1Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

According to NFPA 80, how often must a fire door assembly be inspected?

  1. Every three years
  2. Monthly
  3. Quarterly
  4. Annually Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires fire door assemblies to be inspected annually and the results documented. The inspection verifies labels, clearances, latching, and hardware function. More frequent inspection may be required by the authority having jurisdiction, but the baseline interval is annual.

Question 2Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Which component provides the self-closing action required on a fire door?

  1. Door stop
  2. Coordinator
  3. Door closer Correct answer.
  4. Astragal

Explanation

A fire door must be self-closing, and the door closer supplies the force that returns the door to the closed position. Door stops limit swing, coordinators sequence pairs of doors, and astragals cover meeting edges. None of those devices supplies closing force.

Question 3Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the minimum clear opening width for a door in a means of egress?

  1. 36 inches
  2. 32 inches Correct answer.
  3. 28 inches
  4. 40 inches

Explanation

NFPA 101 requires a clear width of at least 32 inches for egress doors, measured with the door open 90 degrees. A wider opening may be required by the calculated occupant load. The minimum is a clear dimension, not the nominal door size.

Question 4Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum allowable clearance between the latch edge of a fire door and its frame?

  1. 1/4 inch
  2. 1/2 inch
  3. 3/8 inch
  4. 1/8 inch Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 80 limits clearance at the latch and hinge edges of fire doors to 1/8 inch to restrict the passage of smoke and fire. Larger gaps can also interfere with proper latching and are commonly cited as inspection deficiencies.

Question 5Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Panic hardware is generally required on egress doors when the occupant load is at least:

  1. 50 persons Correct answer.
  2. 200 persons
  3. 100 persons
  4. 30 persons

Explanation

The model codes generally require panic hardware on egress doors serving certain occupancies when the occupant load is 50 or more. The exact application depends on the occupancy classification and the adopted code edition. The threshold is a life-safety trigger, not an optional convenience.

Question 6Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the effect of painting over a fire door label?

  1. It requires only a note in the inspection report
  2. It makes the label illegible and is a deficiency Correct answer.
  3. It is allowed if the paint is fire-retardant
  4. It is acceptable if the label is still faintly visible

Explanation

The label must remain legible so the assembly's fire rating can be confirmed. Paint or other coating that obscures the label is an inspection deficiency because it conceals required listing information. The label identifies the door's rating and must not be covered.

Question 7Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

On a pair of fire doors, which device ensures the active leaf closes after the inactive leaf?

  1. Flush bolt
  2. Door closer
  3. Astragal
  4. Door coordinator Correct answer.

Explanation

A coordinator delays the active leaf so the inactive leaf closes and latches first. This sequencing prevents the leaves from binding or overlapping and helps the assembly achieve a proper close. Without a coordinator, one leaf can obstruct the other.

Question 8Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum height above the floor for the actuating bar of panic hardware?

  1. 44 inches
  2. 40 inches
  3. 34 inches
  4. 48 inches Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 101 requires the actuating portion of an exit device to be between 34 and 48 inches above the floor. The 48-inch maximum keeps the bar reachable for occupants. The 34-inch dimension is the minimum, not the maximum.

Question 9Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

How does fire exit hardware differ from panic hardware?

  1. It includes a built-in door closer as part of the device
  2. Panic hardware may be used on any fire door without a label
  3. It is labeled for fire doors and latches positively Correct answer.
  4. It is permitted only on exterior doors of a building

Explanation

Fire exit hardware is tested and labeled for use on fire door assemblies and provides positive latching. Standard panic hardware may lack the latching function needed on a fire door. Both types allow egress by a single motion.

Question 10Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

An electromagnetic door holder on a fire door is designed to release when:

  1. The building is occupied by more than 50 people
  2. A fire alarm signal occurs or power is lost Correct answer.
  3. The door is opened manually by a person
  4. The closer is adjusted for summer and winter

Explanation

Electromagnetic holders keep a fire door open during normal use and release on a fire alarm signal or loss of power. The closer then shuts the door to limit the spread of smoke and fire. Manual opening and closer adjustment do not initiate release.

Question 11Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the primary purpose of an astragal on a pair of fire doors?

  1. To reinforce the hinge jamb and add screw support
  2. To hold the inactive leaf open during building use
  3. To cover the meeting-edge gap between leaves Correct answer.
  4. To raise the fire rating of the door assembly

Explanation

An astragal is attached at the meeting edge of a pair of doors to close the gap between the leaves. This helps the assembly resist the passage of smoke and fire. It does not change the rating, reinforce the jamb, or hold a leaf open.

Question 12Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum undercut allowed at the bottom of a fire door over a noncombustible floor?

  1. 1/2 inch
  2. 1/4 inch
  3. 3/8 inch
  4. 3/4 inch Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 80 permits a maximum 3/4-inch undercut at the bottom of a fire door over a noncombustible floor. Over a combustible floor the limit is reduced to 3/8 inch. A larger gap can allow smoke to pass and is an inspection deficiency.

Question 13Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Under what condition may a labeled fire door be field-modified?

  1. When the building owner gives written approval
  2. When listed in the manufacturer's instructions Correct answer.
  3. When the installer holds a locksmith license
  4. Field modifications are never allowed under any condition

Explanation

NFPA 80 permits only modifications that are described in the manufacturer's published listings or instructions. Unlisted cutting, drilling, or patching can void the door's label and rating. A license or owner approval does not substitute for the manufacturer's listing.

Question 14Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What does the backcheck feature of a door closer do?

  1. Holds the door open at a selected angle
  2. Latches the door after the closer finishes
  3. Cushions forceful door opening Correct answer.
  4. Releases the door when the alarm sounds

Explanation

Backcheck provides hydraulic resistance as the door is opened forcefully, preventing it from slamming into a wall or stop. It does not hold the door open, latch the door, or release it on alarm. Those functions belong to other hardware or closer features.

Question 15Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum force allowed to open an interior fire door under NFPA 101?

  1. 10 pound-force
  2. 20 pound-force
  3. 15 pound-force
  4. 5 pound-force Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 101 limits the opening force for interior doors to 5 pound-force so occupants can escape without excessive effort. Exterior doors may require up to 15 pound-force. The interior limit is intended to keep egress reliable for all occupants.

Question 16Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fire door serving a room with an occupant load of 75 must swing:

  1. In either direction at the installer's choice
  2. Against the direction of egress travel
  3. In the direction of egress travel Correct answer.
  4. Only outward when the room is sprinklered

Explanation

NFPA 101 requires doors serving occupant loads of 50 or more to swing in the direction of egress travel. This prevents the door from blocking the path during a panic. Sprinkler protection does not change the required swing direction.

Question 17Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Glazing installed in a fire door must be:

  1. Wired glass in all cases without a label
  2. Ordinary tempered glass with a safety film
  3. Unlabeled if the door is 20-minute rated
  4. Labeled fire-rated glazing Correct answer.

Explanation

Any glazing in a labeled fire door must itself be listed and labeled for the rating and installed per NFPA 80. The total glazing area is also limited by the door's rating. Tempered glass and unlabeled glazing do not satisfy the fire-rating requirement.

Question 18Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum height of a threshold in a means of egress?

  1. 3/4 inch
  2. 1/2 inch Correct answer.
  3. 1/4 inch
  4. 3/8 inch

Explanation

NFPA 101 limits thresholds in a means of egress to a maximum of 1/2 inch. A higher change in elevation generally requires a ramp. A beveled edge may be permitted for small changes, but the maximum threshold height is 1/2 inch.

Question 19Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Who is permitted to perform the annual fire door assembly inspection?

  1. A qualified person with fire door knowledge Correct answer.
  2. Only the door manufacturer's field representative
  3. Only the local fire marshal or a deputy marshal
  4. Any building employee with at least one year on site

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires the annual inspection to be performed by a qualified person who understands fire door assemblies and their components. The inspector documents labels, clearances, latching, and hardware condition. The authority having jurisdiction may also inspect, but it is not the only party allowed to do so.

Question 20Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fire door assembly label typically covers which components?

  1. Only the hardware items listed on the door
  2. The complete door, frame, and listed hardware Correct answer.
  3. Only the door leaf and its factory-applied label
  4. Only the frame and its anchoring system

Explanation

The label applies to the complete assembly, including the door, frame, and the hardware components specified in the listing. Replacing a listed component with an unlisted one can void the assembly's rating. The assembly is evaluated as a system, not as individual parts.

Question 21Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fusible link on a fire door holder is designed to separate at approximately:

  1. 135°F
  2. 120°F
  3. 165°F Correct answer.
  4. 212°F

Explanation

Fusible links used with fire door holders commonly melt at about 165°F, releasing the door so the closer can shut it. This temperature is below the ignition range of many ordinary combustible materials. The release allows the door to serve as a barrier during a fire.

Question 22Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Which condition indicates a fire door does not have positive latching?

  1. The latch bolt engages the strike when the door closes
  2. The door opens without retracting the latch Correct answer.
  3. The door has an astragal at the meeting edge
  4. The closer holds the door closed under spring tension

Explanation

Positive latching means the latch must engage and hold the door closed; if the door can be pulled open without operating the latch, the assembly fails. The latch must be spring-loaded or otherwise designed to engage the strike. Closer force alone does not provide positive latching.

Question 23Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A door closer on a fire door must be adjusted so that the door:

  1. Closes slowly but may remain slightly ajar
  2. Closes and latches from any open position Correct answer.
  3. Requires manual assistance to engage the latch
  4. Holds open for 30 seconds after release

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires the closer to close and latch the door reliably from any open position. A closer that leaves the door ajar creates a path for smoke and fire. Manual assistance or delayed hold-open is not a substitute for reliable closing and latching.

Question 24Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

During an annual inspection, which finding is a deficiency?

  1. The closer does not fully close the door Correct answer.
  2. The gaps are within 1/8 inch at the frame
  3. The label remains legible and attached to the door
  4. The door closes and latches properly under closer power

Explanation

A door that does not fully close and latch is a life-safety deficiency because it cannot contain fire or smoke. The inspection must identify and report the condition for correction. Proper closing, a legible label, and gaps within tolerance are compliant conditions.

Question 25Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

How should a labeled fire door frame be anchored?

  1. With field-selected anchors approved by the installer
  2. With the manufacturer's listed anchors Correct answer.
  3. With welds only, regardless of the frame type
  4. With any anchors that meet local building code

Explanation

A labeled fire door frame must be installed with the anchors and methods specified in the manufacturer's published instructions to maintain the listing. Substituting field-selected anchors can compromise the assembly's fire performance. Code compliance alone does not establish that the anchor is listed for the frame.

Question 26Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

How often must a fire door assembly be inspected under NFPA 80?

  1. Annually Correct answer.
  2. Every five years
  3. Monthly
  4. Quarterly

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires fire door assemblies to be inspected annually, and the inspection must confirm that the door, frame, and hardware function as listed. Monthly and quarterly intervals are used for other life-safety equipment, not for the routine fire door assembly inspection. A five-year interval is far too long and would not satisfy the annual requirement.

Question 27Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fire door is released from a fully open position. What must the door closer do?

  1. Hold the door open until manually released
  2. Stop the door at 45 degrees to slow traffic
  3. Close and latch the door without assistance Correct answer.
  4. Close the door only after a smoke alarm sounds

Explanation

A fire door must be self-closing and self-latching, so the closer must move the door from any open position to the closed and latched position without human help. Holding the door open defeats the purpose of the fire door. Stopping the door partway or waiting for an alarm is not self-closing operation.

Question 28Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the minimum latch bolt throw permitted on a fire door?

  1. 1/4 inch
  2. 3/4 inch
  3. 1/2 inch Correct answer.
  4. 1 inch

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires a minimum latch bolt throw of 1/2 inch so that the bolt has enough engagement with the strike to hold the door closed during a fire. A 1/4-inch throw is insufficient. Longer throws may be used where the hardware is listed for the application.

Question 29Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the minimum clear width required for a means of egress door?

  1. 32 inches Correct answer.
  2. 24 inches
  3. 28 inches
  4. 30 inches

Explanation

NFPA 101 establishes 32 inches as the minimum clear width for a means of egress door. Clear width is measured with the door open at 90 degrees and includes any projections from hardware. A 24-, 28-, or 30-inch clear opening does not meet that minimum.

Question 30Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Which material is required for hinges on a labeled fire door?

  1. Plastic
  2. Aluminum
  3. Brass
  4. Steel Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires hinges on labeled fire doors to be steel so they maintain strength and integrity under fire conditions. Aluminum, brass, and plastic hinges do not meet the steel requirement for labeled fire door assemblies.

Question 31Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum permitted clearance between a fire door and its frame at the head and jambs?

  1. 3/16 inch
  2. 3/32 inch
  3. 1/16 inch
  4. 1/8 inch Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 80 limits clearance between the fire door and the frame at the head and jambs to 1/8 inch. Larger gaps can allow fire and smoke to pass around the door and can prevent proper latching. The measurement is made with the door in the closed position.

Question 32Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Which components make up a fire door assembly?

  1. Only the door slab
  2. The door, frame, and hardware Correct answer.
  3. Only the frame and hinges
  4. The door and the wall opening

Explanation

A fire door assembly includes the door, frame, and all hardware necessary for the assembly to function as tested and listed. Inspecting only the slab or only the frame misses components that affect fire performance. The wall opening itself is not part of the labeled assembly.

Question 33Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Hardware installed on a fire door must be...

  1. Listed only when the door is wood
  2. Any hardware that fits the preparation
  3. Listed for use on fire door assemblies Correct answer.
  4. Painted to match the door

Explanation

Hardware on a fire door must be listed for use on fire door assemblies so that it has been tested for the fire exposure and for proper function. Fit alone is not enough, and painting has no bearing on listing. Using unlisted hardware can invalidate the assembly's rating.

Question 34Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

On a pair of fire doors, which device is required on the inactive leaf to keep it closed when the active leaf is operated?

  1. A door holder
  2. Automatic flush bolts Correct answer.
  3. A fusible link
  4. A door coordinator

Explanation

The inactive leaf of a pair of fire doors typically uses automatic flush bolts so the leaf stays closed and latched while the active leaf is used for normal traffic. A coordinator sequences the closing of the two leaves but does not itself keep the inactive leaf closed. A fusible link and a door holder serve different functions.

Question 35Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A door viewer installed in a fire door must be...

  1. Made of brass
  2. Listed for use in fire door assemblies Correct answer.
  3. Installed only in 20-minute doors
  4. Removed before inspection

Explanation

A door viewer penetrates the door slab, so it must be listed for use in fire door assemblies to preserve the assembly's rating. The material of the viewer is not the governing requirement. Viewers are not limited to 20-minute doors or required to be removed for inspection.

Question 36Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A louver installed in a fire door must be...

  1. At least 12 inches square
  2. Listed for fire door use and installed per the listing Correct answer.
  3. Field-cut to fit the opening
  4. Installed only on the active leaf

Explanation

Louvers in fire doors must be listed for the application and installed in accordance with the listing and manufacturer's instructions. Field-cutting an opening without a listed louver would violate the label. Size and leaf location are governed by the listing, not by a universal minimum or active-leaf restriction.

Question 37Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A magnetic lock installed on a fire door must...

  1. Release upon activation of the fire alarm system Correct answer.
  2. Release only when the door is pushed
  3. Remain locked during a fire alarm
  4. Be installed only on the inactive leaf

Explanation

A magnetic lock on a fire door must release upon fire alarm activation so the door can close and latch and so occupants can exit. Remaining locked during an alarm would defeat the life-safety function. Release is not dependent on someone pushing the door.

Question 38Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Which of the following is a recognized fire door rating under NFPA 80?

  1. 45 minutes Correct answer.
  2. 35 minutes
  3. 55 minutes
  4. 25 minutes

Explanation

NFPA 80 recognizes standard fire protection ratings that include 20 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes, and 90 minutes, among others. A 45-minute rating is therefore a valid classification. Ratings such as 25, 35, and 55 minutes are not standard fire door ratings.

Question 39Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What does positive latching mean for a fire door?

  1. The door closer pulls the door shut but does not engage the strike
  2. The door is held open by a magnet
  3. The door has a deadbolt that is key-operated only
  4. The latch bolt engages the strike and holds the door closed Correct answer.

Explanation

Positive latching means the latch bolt actually engages the strike and holds the door in the closed position. A closer that only pulls the door near the frame without engaging the latch does not provide positive latching. A magnet holding the door open is the opposite of latching.

Question 40Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What is the maximum permitted clearance between the meeting edges of a pair of fire doors?

  1. 1/16 inch
  2. 1/4 inch
  3. 1/8 inch Correct answer.
  4. 3/16 inch

Explanation

NFPA 80 limits the clearance at the meeting edges of a pair of fire doors to 1/8 inch, just as it limits the clearance at the head and jambs. Excessive clearance can allow smoke and fire to pass between the leaves. The measurement is taken with the doors closed.

Question 41Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

What should be done if a fire door assembly has no visible label?

  1. Paint the door to restore the rating
  2. Install a new closer and assume the rating
  3. Add an astragal to the frame
  4. Treat the assembly as unlabeled and have it evaluated for compliance Correct answer.

Explanation

The label is the evidence that the assembly was tested and listed for the fire rating. Without a label, the assembly cannot be verified as a labeled fire door and must be evaluated, repaired, or replaced as required. Adding or replacing hardware does not create a label.

Question 42Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Which door closer mounting is acceptable on a fire door?

  1. Parallel arm only
  2. Regular arm only
  3. Any mounting listed for the door and closer Correct answer.
  4. Top jamb only

Explanation

The closer must be installed in a mounting configuration that is listed for the specific door and closer application. There is no single mounting style, such as regular arm, parallel arm, or top jamb, that is the only acceptable choice. The listing and manufacturer's instructions govern.

Question 43Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Where panic hardware is required on a fire door in a means of egress, the device must be...

  1. A surface bolt
  2. A key-operated deadbolt
  3. A padlock hasp
  4. Listed as fire exit hardware Correct answer.

Explanation

A fire door that requires panic hardware must use devices listed as fire exit hardware, which combines the exit function with fire door listing. Key-operated deadbolts, padlocks, and surface bolts do not provide the required panic release. This ensures both egress and fire performance.

Question 44Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

Smoke gasketing on a fire door is intended to...

  1. Increase the fire rating of the door
  2. Hold the door open during an alarm
  3. Limit the passage of smoke around the door Correct answer.
  4. Replace the latch bolt

Explanation

Smoke gasketing limits the movement of smoke through the gaps around a door, which is important where the assembly is also serving a smoke-control function. It does not increase the fire rating of the door or hold the door open. It also does not replace the latch.

Question 45Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A removable mullion used with a pair of fire doors must be...

  1. Installed only on wood doors
  2. Listed for use with the fire door assembly Correct answer.
  3. Painted red
  4. Removed during inspection

Explanation

A removable mullion is part of the fire door assembly and must be listed for use with that assembly so its presence or removal does not compromise the rating. Color is not a listing criterion, and the mullion is not removed for inspection. The material of the door does not determine the listing requirement.

Question 46Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

An existing 7-foot fire door has only two hinges and otherwise operates correctly. How should this be evaluated?

  1. Acceptable if the door is hollow metal
  2. Deficient because a 7-foot door requires three hinges Correct answer.
  3. Acceptable because the door is 7 feet tall
  4. Deficient because a 7-foot door requires five hinges

Explanation

NFPA 80 requires three hinges for fire doors in the height range that includes a standard 7-foot door. Two hinges do not provide the required support and can allow the door to sag or bind. The material of the door does not reduce the hinge requirement, and five hinges would be more than required.

Question 47Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

During inspection, a fire door has a 1/4-inch clearance at the top while the door otherwise closes and latches. What is the correct finding?

  1. A deficiency because the clearance exceeds 1/8 inch Correct answer.
  2. Acceptable because the door latches
  3. Acceptable because the gap is at the top
  4. A deficiency only if smoke gasketing is missing

Explanation

The maximum permitted clearance at the head and jambs is 1/8 inch, so a 1/4-inch gap is a deficiency even if the door latches. The location of the gap at the top does not exempt it. Smoke gasketing does not make an oversized clearance acceptable.

Question 48Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fire door is installed in a 2-hour rated wall. What is the minimum fire protection rating generally required for the door?

  1. 45 minutes
  2. 180 minutes
  3. 90 minutes Correct answer.
  4. 20 minutes

Explanation

For a 2-hour rated wall, the fire door assembly is generally required to have a 90-minute fire protection rating. A 20-minute or 45-minute door would not match the wall rating. A 180-minute door would exceed the minimum and is not typical for a 2-hour wall.

Question 49Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fire door closes and the latch engages, but the latch bolt has only 1/4 inch of throw. How should this be reported?

  1. Acceptable if the door is exterior
  2. Acceptable because the latch engages
  3. Deficient because the minimum throw is 1/2 inch Correct answer.
  4. Deficient because the minimum throw is 1 inch

Explanation

Engagement alone is not enough; NFPA 80 requires a latch bolt throw of at least 1/2 inch on a fire door. A 1/4-inch throw does not provide the required engagement and is a deficiency. A 1-inch throw is not the minimum.

Question 50Fire door assemblies and hardware (doors, frames, closers, latching and exiting hardware)

A fire door has a 90-minute label, but the frame has only a 45-minute label. What is the fire protection rating of the assembly?

  1. 45 minutes because the assembly is limited by the lowest-rated labeled component Correct answer.
  2. 90 minutes because the door has the higher rating
  3. 20 minutes because the labels conflict
  4. 180 minutes because the ratings are added

Explanation

A fire door assembly is only as good as its lowest-rated labeled component, so a 90-minute door in a 45-minute frame yields a 45-minute assembly. The higher door label does not raise the frame rating. Labels are not added together, and the conflict does not default to 20 minutes.