I85PREP
⌘ K
NC Fire Alarm study materials
NC Fire Alarm study resources

NC Fire Alarm practice questions

One question at a time. Build your NC Fire Alarm understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Under NFPA 72, which term defines a signal initiated by a manual station, detector, or other device that indicates a fire or emergency condition requiring response?

  1. Annunciator signal
  2. Alarm signal Correct answer.
  3. Trouble signal
  4. Supervisory signal

Explanation

An alarm signal is the system output that indicates a fire or other emergency condition demanding immediate action. Supervisory and trouble signals report abnormal but non-emergency conditions of the system or its protected equipment.

Question 2Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

A fire alarm control unit that is listed as a 'combination' system is designed to do which of the following?

  1. Monitor only automatic detection devices with no manual stations
  2. Provide voice evacuation only and no automatic detection
  3. Serve both fire alarm and other emergency functions such as sprinkler monitoring in one unit Correct answer.
  4. Connect only to municipal master boxes

Explanation

A combination fire alarm control unit can perform fire alarm functions together with other related functions, such as sprinkler supervisory monitoring, within a single listed unit. This is distinct from a dedicated unit limited to one function.

Question 3Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which device is defined as a manually operated device used to initiate an alarm signal?

  1. Manual fire alarm box Correct answer.
  2. Waterflow switch
  3. Duct smoke detector
  4. Supervisory switch

Explanation

A manual fire alarm box is operated by a person to initiate an alarm signal, typically by pulling a handle or breaking glass. Automatic devices such as waterflow switches and detectors initiate signals without human action.

Question 4Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

In fire alarm terminology, what does the term 'initiating device' refer to?

  1. A device that displays system status to the responding fire department
  2. A device that produces audible output in the protected area
  3. A device that provides standby battery charging
  4. A device that automatically or manually causes an alarm or supervisory signal Correct answer.

Explanation

Initiating devices are the input components of a fire alarm system, such as detectors and manual boxes, that cause an alarm or supervisory signal. Notification appliances and control unit components serve output and management functions.

Question 5Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which term describes the component that produces audible, visible, or tactile output to alert occupants of an alarm condition?

  1. Notification appliance Correct answer.
  2. Transponder
  3. Supervisory switch
  4. Initiating device

Explanation

A notification appliance is the output device, such as a horn, strobe, or speaker, that alerts occupants. Initiating devices are inputs, and supervisory switches monitor system conditions.

Question 6Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What is the meaning of the term 'zoning' in a conventional fire alarm system?

  1. Separating notification circuits from detection circuits
  2. Dividing the standby battery into charging sections
  3. Assigning each detector a unique digital address
  4. Grouping initiating devices into defined areas so the control unit can indicate the general location of an alarm Correct answer.

Explanation

Zoning groups conventional initiating devices into defined areas, allowing the panel to report the general location of an alarm by circuit. Individual device identification by address is a feature of addressable systems.

Question 7Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which of the following best defines an 'addressable' fire alarm system?

  1. A system in which the control unit identifies each initiating device or group individually by address Correct answer.
  2. A system that relies on municipal box transmission for all alarms
  3. A system that uses only conventional zones of parallel detectors
  4. A system limited to manual pull stations

Explanation

An addressable system assigns individual addresses to devices, allowing the control unit to identify a specific device in alarm or trouble. Conventional systems report by zone circuit instead of individual device.

Question 8Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

The term 'supervisory signal' in a fire alarm system is used to indicate which condition?

  1. A failure of the primary power supply
  2. A fire condition requiring immediate evacuation
  3. An open circuit in a notification appliance branch
  4. An off-normal condition of a system or protected equipment, such as a closed sprinkler control valve Correct answer.

Explanation

Supervisory signals report off-normal conditions of protected systems or equipment that could impair fire protection, such as a closed valve or low water level. Fire conditions, power failures, and circuit faults are reported differently.

Question 9Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which statement correctly distinguishes a 'trouble signal' from an 'alarm signal'?

  1. A trouble signal indicates a fault or abnormal condition in the system, while an alarm signal indicates a fire or emergency condition Correct answer.
  2. Both terms describe the same condition and are interchangeable
  3. A trouble signal is only produced by manual stations
  4. A trouble signal indicates fire, while an alarm signal indicates a circuit fault

Explanation

Trouble signals report system integrity problems such as opens, grounds, or power loss, whereas alarm signals report fire or emergency conditions. The two are distinct categories with different required responses.

Question 10Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What does the term 'supervising station' refer to in fire alarm practice?

  1. The protected area containing the detectors
  2. A location where alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals are monitored and from which appropriate action is taken Correct answer.
  3. The manufacturer's testing laboratory
  4. The room housing the standby batteries

Explanation

A supervising station is a facility that receives and monitors signals from protected premises and initiates a response. Battery rooms, protected areas, and testing laboratories do not perform this monitoring role.

Question 11Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which of the following describes a 'protected premises' in fire alarm terminology?

  1. The central station that receives signals
  2. The building or area in which initiating devices and notification appliances are installed Correct answer.
  3. The fire department communication center
  4. The manufacturer's service depot

Explanation

Protected premises is the building or area monitored and protected by the fire alarm system. Central stations and fire department centers are off-premises receiving locations.

Question 12Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

In a fire alarm system, what is the function of a 'primary power supply'?

  1. To transmit signals to the supervising station
  2. To supply emergency power only when the building is unoccupied
  3. To provide the normal operating power for the system, typically from the commercial light and power source Correct answer.
  4. To charge the batteries during an alarm condition

Explanation

The primary power supply provides the normal operating power, usually from the commercial utility source. Standby batteries supply secondary power when the primary source fails.

Question 13Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which term describes the secondary power supply required to operate a fire alarm system when the primary source fails?

  1. Notification circuit
  2. Standby power supply Correct answer.
  3. Initiating circuit
  4. Primary feeder

Explanation

The standby power supply, typically rechargeable batteries, provides power during a loss of the primary source. Primary feeders, notification circuits, and initiating circuits serve other functions.

Question 14Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What is a 'supervisory switch' typically used to monitor in a sprinkler system?

  1. The position of a control valve Correct answer.
  2. The audible output level of a horn
  3. The waterflow in a branch line
  4. The smoke density in a duct

Explanation

Supervisory switches monitor the open or closed position of control valves so that a closed valve generates a supervisory signal. Waterflow detection, duct smoke detection, and sound output measurement use different devices.

Question 15Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which term refers to the means by which alarm signals are transmitted from a protected premises to a supervising station?

  1. Initiating circuit
  2. Notification circuit
  3. Transmission means Correct answer.
  4. Annunciation

Explanation

Transmission means describes the communication pathway and equipment that carry signals from the premises to a supervising station. Initiating and notification circuits are on-premises wiring, and annunciation is local display.

Question 16Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What distinguishes a 'central station' from a 'remote supervising station'?

  1. A central station uses only manual boxes, while a remote station uses only automatic detectors
  2. A central station is a proprietary or contract facility that monitors signals and dispatches response, while a remote supervising station is typically a location in the protected property or a proprietary facility without full dispatch Correct answer.
  3. A central station is located inside the protected building, while a remote station is always off site
  4. A central station only monitors sprinkler valves, while a remote station monitors fire detectors

Explanation

Central stations are dedicated facilities staffed to monitor signals and initiate response, often under contract. Remote supervising stations generally serve proprietary or limited monitoring roles without the full central station dispatch function.

Question 17Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

In fire alarm terminology, what is an 'annunciator'?

  1. A unit that displays the status of circuits or devices, such as alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions Correct answer.
  2. A battery charger module
  3. A switch that monitors valve position
  4. A device that detects smoke in a duct

Explanation

An annunciator presents visual or audible status information about the system, often at a remote location such as an entrance. It displays conditions rather than detecting them.

Question 18Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which statement best describes a 'conventional' fire alarm system?

  1. Initiating devices are connected on zone circuits, and the control unit indicates the zone rather than the individual device in alarm Correct answer.
  2. Signals are transmitted only by municipal master box
  3. All devices communicate over a digital signaling line circuit with unique addresses
  4. Each device is individually addressed and identified by the control unit

Explanation

Conventional systems group devices on zone circuits, so an alarm identifies the zone but not the specific device. Individual device identification is characteristic of addressable systems.

Question 19Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

A technician notes that a signaling line circuit (SLC) is used in a particular system. What does this circuit do?

  1. It drives only notification appliances with no data
  2. It connects the municipal box to the panel
  3. It supplies 120-volt AC power to the control unit
  4. It carries digital communication between the control unit and addressable devices Correct answer.

Explanation

A signaling line circuit carries addressable data between the control unit and devices such as detectors and modules. Power distribution and notification appliance circuits are separate pathways.

Question 20Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What is meant by 'positive alarm sequence' in fire alarm operation?

  1. A sequence that immediately activates all notification appliances without delay
  2. An automatic sequence that delays alarm notification for a limited time to allow investigation, with automatic alarm if not acknowledged Correct answer.
  3. A method of testing batteries in a fixed order
  4. A procedure for addressing devices in numerical order

Explanation

Positive alarm sequence permits a brief investigation period after an automatic detection signal before general alarm, provided the signal is acknowledged within the allowed time. Failure to acknowledge results in automatic alarm.

Question 21Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which of the following correctly describes a 'cross-zoned' detection arrangement?

  1. Alarm is initiated by any single detector in any zone
  2. Alarm is initiated only when two or more detectors in different zones or groups operate, reducing false alarms Correct answer.
  3. Detection zones are wired in parallel on one circuit
  4. Notification appliances are divided into separate zones

Explanation

Cross-zoning requires confirmation from more than one detector, typically in separate zones or groups, before an alarm is initiated. This reduces nuisance alarms from a single detector.

Question 22Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What does the term 'nuisance alarm' describe in fire alarm practice?

  1. An alarm that occurs only when the primary power fails
  2. An alarm transmitted solely to the municipal fire department
  3. An alarm that is intentionally initiated during a drill
  4. An alarm caused by a condition or device response that is not a genuine fire emergency Correct answer.

Explanation

A nuisance alarm results from a non-fire cause such as cooking smoke, dust, or a device fault, rather than an actual emergency. Drill activations and power-related signals are categorized differently.

Question 23Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

Which statement accurately describes the role of a 'transponder' in a fire alarm system?

  1. It provides a remote interface between the control unit and initiating or notification devices, often over a communication link Correct answer.
  2. It is a manual station used to initiate alarms
  3. It is the primary source of standby battery power
  4. It is a device that measures sound pressure levels

Explanation

A transponder interfaces remote devices with the main control unit, typically over a communication pathway, extending system reach. It does not supply standby power or initiate alarms manually.

Question 24Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Definitions

What is the purpose of a 'waterflow switch' in a fire alarm system?

  1. To detect smoke in the protected space
  2. To provide audible notification to occupants
  3. To detect water movement in a sprinkler system and initiate an alarm signal Correct answer.
  4. To monitor the open position of a control valve

Explanation

A waterflow switch senses movement of water in the sprinkler piping, indicating that a sprinkler has operated, and initiates an alarm signal. Valve position monitoring and smoke detection use different devices.

Question 25Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

Under NFPA 72, which document is the required record of the system's original design, installation details, and acceptance testing that must be delivered to the owner?

  1. The contractor's as-built drawing set
  2. The Record of Completion Correct answer.
  3. The fire alarm control unit instruction manual
  4. The inspection and testing contract

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires the installing contractor to complete and deliver a Record of Completion documenting system features, device locations, and acceptance test results. It is the formal handover record of what was installed and verified, distinct from drawings or manuals.

Question 26Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

In a fire alarm system, which circuit classification permits a single open or ground fault to leave the circuit operational?

  1. Class A Correct answer.
  2. Class X
  3. Class N
  4. Class B

Explanation

Class A circuits are arranged so that an open or ground fault on one conductor does not prevent operation of the devices on the circuit. Class B circuits lose the portion beyond an open fault.

Question 27Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A fire alarm control unit is installed in a room that is not continuously occupied. According to NFPA 72, what is required at that location?

  1. A remote annunciator in the lobby
  2. A telephone for calling the fire department
  3. A dedicated branch circuit and a lockable enclosure
  4. A smoke detector connected to the control unit Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires a smoke detector at the location of a fire alarm control unit that is not continuously occupied, so a fire at the panel is detected. The detector is connected to the system to annunciate the alarm.

Question 28Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

Which NEC article governs the installation of fire alarm systems and their wiring methods?

  1. Article 250
  2. Article 725
  3. Article 700
  4. Article 760 Correct answer.

Explanation

NEC Article 760 covers fire alarm systems, including power-limited and non-power-limited fire alarm circuits. It sets the wiring methods and conductor requirements specific to fire alarm circuits.

Question 29Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

According to the NC Building Code, a manual fire alarm box must be installed in which location within a Group A assembly occupancy?

  1. Inside the manager's office
  2. At each required exit Correct answer.
  3. At the stage apron
  4. At the main entrance only

Explanation

The building code requires manual fire alarm boxes at each required exit so occupants can initiate an alarm along the egress path. Placement follows the exit locations rather than administrative or stage areas.

Question 30Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

What is the maximum spacing permitted between smoke detectors on a smooth ceiling under NFPA 72?

  1. 30 feet Correct answer.
  2. 50 feet
  3. 20 feet
  4. 45 feet

Explanation

NFPA 72 permits a maximum listed spacing of 30 feet between smoke detectors on smooth ceilings, with the first detector within 15 feet of the wall. Spacing is reduced for ceiling height and configuration.

Question 31Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

Which NFPA 72 requirement applies to the audible signal produced by a fire alarm notification appliance in a public mode occupancy?

  1. It must be audible only in the corridor
  2. It must be distinguishable from other signals and exceed ambient noise by 15 dBA Correct answer.
  3. It must be a voice message only
  4. It must be synchronized with the sprinkler flow switch

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires public mode audible alarms to be distinctive and to exceed the ambient sound level by 15 dBA, or to reach 105 dBA where ambient exceeds 105 dBA. The intent is reliable perception over background noise.

Question 32Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A duct smoke detector is installed in an air handling system. According to NFPA 72, what is the primary purpose of that detector?

  1. To satisfy the requirement for corridor detection
  2. To control the spread of smoke through the HVAC system Correct answer.
  3. To activate the building fire alarm and evacuate occupants
  4. To serve as a substitute for area smoke detection

Explanation

Duct smoke detectors are intended to detect smoke in the air stream and initiate control functions such as fan shutdown to limit smoke spread. NFPA 72 explicitly does not allow them to substitute for area detection.

Question 33Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A technician is installing initiating device circuits in a new system and must select a wiring method permitted for non-power-limited fire alarm circuits in a commercial building. Which NEC provision applies?

  1. Article 760 Part II for non-power-limited fire alarm circuits Correct answer.
  2. Article 725 Class 1 remote-control circuits
  3. Article 800 communications circuits
  4. Article 300 general wiring methods only

Explanation

Non-power-limited fire alarm circuits fall under NEC Article 760 Part II, which specifies permitted conductors and wiring methods. Power-limited fire alarm circuits are covered in Part III.

Question 34Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

During acceptance testing, a contractor must verify that a waterflow switch on a sprinkler system activates the fire alarm within a specified time. Under NFPA 72, what is the maximum time allowed after waterflow begins?

  1. 90 seconds Correct answer.
  2. 30 seconds
  3. 120 seconds
  4. 60 seconds

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires waterflow switches to initiate an alarm within 90 seconds after a flow of water equivalent to one sprinkler head. Delays beyond that are not permitted for alarm initiation.

Question 35Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A designer is laying out heat detectors on a flat ceiling with a listed spacing of 50 feet. What is the maximum distance the first detector may be from a sidewall?

  1. 25 feet Correct answer.
  2. 30 feet
  3. 12.5 feet
  4. 50 feet

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires the first detector to be placed within one-half the listed spacing from a sidewall, so a 50-foot spacing yields a 25-foot maximum to the wall. This ensures coverage extends to the wall.

Question 36Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A fire alarm system must be monitored by a supervising station. If the system uses a digital alarm communicator transmitter, which NFPA 72 requirement applies to the telephone line connection?

  1. The transmitter must be connected ahead of any private branch exchange
  2. The transmitter must use a cellular radio only
  3. Two separate telephone lines are required for the transmitter Correct answer.
  4. A single telephone line is sufficient for all installations

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires a digital alarm communicator transmitter to be connected to two separate telephone lines, or equivalent, to provide a redundant path for alarm transmission. This reduces the chance that a single line failure blocks signals.

Question 37Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A building owner wants to add a fire alarm system to an existing Group B office building undergoing a change of occupancy. Which code document establishes the requirements for the fire alarm system?

  1. The NC Building Code and NFPA 72 Correct answer.
  2. NFPA 70 alone
  3. The NC Fire Prevention Code only
  4. The local utility service manual

Explanation

The NC Building Code establishes when a fire alarm system is required for the occupancy, and NFPA 72 provides the installation and performance standards. Both documents apply together.

Question 38Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A technician is testing a Class B notification appliance circuit and finds that an open fault at one device disables all appliances beyond it. What does this indicate about the circuit?

  1. The circuit is functioning as designed for Class B Correct answer.
  2. The circuit requires a ground fault detector
  3. The circuit must be converted to Class N
  4. The circuit is miswired and should be Class A

Explanation

Class B circuits are not fault-tolerant; an open fault disables devices downstream of the break, which is expected behavior. Class A circuits use a return path to maintain operation past a single fault.

Question 39Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

During a fire alarm inspection, a technician finds that the control unit is installed in a room with no smoke detector and the room is used only for storage. What should the technician report?

  1. No deficiency, because the room is not occupied
  2. A deficiency, because the panel must be moved to the lobby
  3. No deficiency, because storage rooms are exempt
  4. A deficiency, because a smoke detector is required at the control unit location Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires a smoke detector at the fire alarm control unit location when the area is not continuously occupied, regardless of whether the room is used for storage. The detector protects the panel from fire damage.

Question 40Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A designer is selecting a notification appliance for a sleeping area in a hotel. Which NFPA 72 requirement applies to the sound pressure level in the sleeping room?

  1. The alarm must be audible only in the corridor
  2. The alarm must be audible at 15 dBA above ambient or 75 dBA, whichever is greater Correct answer.
  3. The alarm must reach 105 dBA at the pillow
  4. The alarm must be a voice message only

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires a sound pressure level of at least 15 dBA above the average ambient level or 75 dBA, whichever is greater, measured at the pillow in sleeping areas. This ensures awakening capability.

Question 41Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A contractor is installing fire alarm cable in a plenum ceiling space. Which NEC requirement applies to the cable selection?

  1. The cable must be installed in rigid metal conduit only
  2. Any listed fire alarm cable may be used
  3. The cable must be listed for use in plenums, such as plenum-rated Correct answer.
  4. The cable must be armored regardless of listing

Explanation

NEC Article 760 requires fire alarm cables installed in environmental air spaces to be listed for plenum use. Plenum-rated cable limits smoke and flame contribution in the air handling space.

Question 42Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A fire alarm system includes a sprinkler flow switch and a valve tamper switch. According to NFPA 72, how must the valve tamper signal be annunciated?

  1. As an alarm signal
  2. As a trouble signal only
  3. As a notification appliance circuit fault
  4. As a supervisory signal Correct answer.

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires valve tamper switches to initiate a supervisory signal, alerting occupants that a control valve is not in its normal position. A closed valve impairs the system but is not itself a fire alarm.

Question 43Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A technician is verifying the operation of a manual fire alarm box in a Group E educational occupancy. Which requirement applies to the mounting height of the box under NFPA 72?

  1. The box must be mounted at 36 inches above the floor
  2. The box must be mounted at 60 inches above the floor
  3. The operable portion must be between 42 and 48 inches above the floor Correct answer.
  4. The mounting height is not regulated

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires the operable portion of a manual fire alarm box to be located between 42 and 48 inches above the finished floor. This range makes the box reachable for the general population.

Question 44Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A building has a fire alarm system with a voice evacuation capability. During acceptance testing, the intelligibility of the voice message must be verified. Which NFPA 72 concept applies?

  1. The message must be synchronized with the strobes
  2. The message must be recorded in a female voice
  3. The message must be intelligible in all occupied areas Correct answer.
  4. The message must be repeated three times

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires voice evacuation messages to be intelligible in all occupied areas of the building. Intelligibility is assessed separately from audibility and depends on speaker layout and acoustics.

Question 45Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A fire alarm control unit is powered by a dedicated branch circuit. Under NFPA 72, what must the circuit be marked to indicate?

  1. The contractor's license number
  2. The circuit's function and that it supplies the fire alarm system Correct answer.
  3. The panel model number
  4. The date of installation

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires the dedicated branch circuit supplying the fire alarm control unit to be marked to identify its function and that it supplies the fire alarm system. This prevents accidental disconnection.

Question 46Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A designer is calculating battery capacity for a fire alarm system. Under NFPA 72, the secondary power supply must be capable of operating the system for how long in the standby condition?

  1. 48 hours
  2. 24 hours Correct answer.
  3. 12 hours
  4. 4 hours

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires the secondary power supply to maintain the system in standby for 24 hours, followed by 5 minutes of alarm operation. This allows the system to remain functional during a prolonged power outage.

Question 47Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A fire alarm system serving a high-rise building must provide a means for firefighters to communicate. Which NFPA 72 requirement addresses this?

  1. A two-way telephone system for fire department use Correct answer.
  2. A cellular booster for emergency calls
  3. A public address system for general announcements
  4. A recorded voice message on the notification circuit

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires a two-way telephone system for fire department communication in buildings where required by the code, such as high-rise structures. It provides dedicated communication independent of the public telephone network.

Question 48Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

During a sensitivity test of a smoke detector, the technician finds the detector responds outside its listed sensitivity range. What action does NFPA 72 require?

  1. The detector must be cleaned and retested within its listed range Correct answer.
  2. The detector must be left in service until the next annual test
  3. The detector must be replaced with a heat detector
  4. The detector must be removed from the system

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires smoke detectors to be tested for sensitivity and to operate within their listed range. A detector outside that range must be cleaned or recalibrated and retested, and replaced if it cannot be brought into range.

Question 49Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

A fire alarm contractor is installing a system in a building with a required fire command center. Which NFPA 72 requirement applies to the location of the fire alarm control unit relative to the command center?

  1. The control unit must be on the roof
  2. The control unit must be located in or adjacent to the fire command center Correct answer.
  3. The control unit must be in the basement
  4. The control unit must be in the main lobby only

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires the fire alarm control unit to be located in or adjacent to the fire command center where one is provided. This centralizes monitoring and control for responding firefighters.

Question 50Codes and Standards (NFPA 72, NFPA 70/NEC, NC Building Code and Fire Prevention Code)

Under NFPA 72, what is the minimum required marking for a fire alarm control unit's dedicated branch circuit disconnect means?

  1. It must be marked "FIRE ALARM" and be accessible only to authorized personnel. Correct answer.
  2. It must be marked "FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT" and be lockable.
  3. It must be marked "FIRE ALARM" in red letters.
  4. It must be marked "FIRE ALARM" and be provided with a red handle.

Explanation

NFPA 72 requires that the disconnecting means for the fire alarm control unit's dedicated branch circuit be marked "FIRE ALARM" and be accessible only to authorized personnel. This ensures that the circuit is not inadvertently disconnected and that only qualified persons can service it.