CFPS Practice Exam Questions with Answers Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) Certification

According to NFPA 400, Table 5.2.1.1.3, the maximum allowable quantity (MAQ) of a nonliquified oxidizing gas per control area in an unsprinklered area is 2000 ft3 (56 m3) when stored in a gas cabinet. This quantity can be increased by 100% if the area is sprinklered or by 300% if the area is also provided with a gas detection system. A gas cabinet is a ventilated enclosure for the storage of one or more compressed gas containers that provides a method of control for potential leakage or fire exposure hazards [NFPA 400, 3.3.32].References:NFPA 400, Table 5.2.1.1.3;NFPA 400, 3.3.32;NFPA 400, 5.2.1.1.3.1;NFPA 400, 5.2.1.1.3.2.

A proprietary fire alarm system is a type of fire alarm system that transmits signals that are permanently recorded at a constantly attended supervising station located either at the protected premises or at another location of the property owner. A proprietary fire alarm system is owned and operated by the property owner or the owner’s agent. A proprietary fire alarm system is intended to provide fire alarm service to a single property or a campus of related properties.References:

• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2019 Edition, Section 3.3.105.11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.1.12

Aqueous film-forming agents (AFFF) are synthetic foam concentrates that can be proportioned into final concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 6%, depending on the type of fuel and application method12. AFFF forms a thin aqueous film on the surface of the flammable liquid, which prevents vapor release and provides rapid fire knockdown and extinguishment3. AFFF is suitable for Class B fires involving hydrocarbon fuels such as gasoline, diesel, kerosene, etc. References:

• Fire Fighting Foams - Chemguard
• Extinguishing foam: types, operation and application areas
• [NFPA 11: Standard for Low-, Medium-, and High-Expansion Foam]

Cellulose nitrate products begin to decompose at about 300 °F (150 °C). This is the temperature at which the nitrate ester bonds start to break down and release nitric acid, which further catalyzes the decomposition. The decomposition temperature depends on the nitrogen content, the stabilizers, and the external heating rate of the cellulose nitrate.Higher nitrogen content, lower stabilizer concentration, and faster heating rate lower the decomposition temperature and increase the risk of thermal runaway.

References:Nitrocellulose - Wikipedia;Comparative analysis of stable decomposition and combustion kinetics of nitrated cellulose;Degradation of aged nitrocellulose investigated by thermal analysis methods;Nitrocellulose;Effect of stabilizers and nitrogen content on thermal properties of nitrocellulose

According to the web search results, the goals of the first edition of NFPA 13D were to provide sufficient time for safe egress or rescue, economic viability, and limit damage to the dwelling. The first edition of NFPA 13D was published in 1975 and was based on the concept of a “life safety” sprinkler system that was intended to protect the occupants of one- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes from fire.The first edition of NFPA 13D stated that the system was not designed to protect the property or contents from fire damage, but rather to provide a tenable environment for escape or rescue1.The first edition of NFPA 13D also recognized the need for economic viability of the system, and therefore allowed for reduced water supply and piping requirements compared to other sprinkler standards2.The first edition of NFPA 13D did not explicitly state the goal of limiting damage to the dwelling, but it implied that the system would have some beneficial effect on the fire spread and severity by stating that the system was designed to prevent flashover in the room of fire origin1.References:

• NFPA 13D: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, 1975 Edition, Section 1-11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Section 8.2.1.22

Hazardous waste

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The correct answer is C. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards require solid waste be treated as hazardous if it is a listed waste and/or meets the characteristics prescribed by the standard for toxicity, reactivity, corrosivity, andignitability.A listed waste is a waste that appears on one of the four lists of hazardous wastes in the Code ofFederal Regulations (CFR) part 261 subpart D1.A characteristic waste is a waste that exhibits one or more of the following traits: toxicity, reactivity, corrosivity, or ignitability2. Toxicity is the ability of a waste to leach harmful chemicals into the environment. Reactivity is the tendency of a waste to undergo violent chemical reactions or generate toxic gases. Corrosivity is the property of a waste to corrode metals or damage living tissues.Ignitability is the capacity of a waste to catch fire under certain conditions2.These characteristics are defined by specific tests and criteria in the CFR part 261 subpart C3.The EPA standards for hazardous waste are based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which is the federal law that regulates the management of solid and hazardous waste in the United States4.

The correct answer is B. After an emergency incident has occurred, a post-incident critique of the emergency preparedness procedure should be conducted covering the detection of the incident, implementation of incident command, andnotification, alerting and warning procedures. These are some of the key elements of an effective emergency response that need to be evaluated and improved after an incident.A post-incident critique is a systematic review of the actions and decisions taken during an emergency incident, with the aim of identifying lessons learned, best practices, gaps, and corrective actions1.A post-incident critique should involve all the relevant stakeholders, such as emergency responders, emergency managers, facility managers, and affected community members2.A post-incident critique should also follow a structured format, such as the one suggested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)3:

• Introduction: The facilitator introduces the purpose, objectives, ground rules, and agenda of the critique session.
• Incident Overview: The facilitator provides a brief summary of the incident, including the date, time, location, type, size, and impact of the incident.
• Timeline Review: The facilitator leads a chronological review of the major events and actions that occurred during the incident, using a timeline or a log as a reference.
• Strengths and Areas for Improvement: The facilitator solicits feedback from the participants on what went well and what needs to be improved, focusing on the following topics:
• Action Plan: The facilitator summarizes the main findings and recommendations from the critique session, and assigns responsibilities and deadlines for implementing the corrective actions.
• Conclusion: The facilitator thanks the participants for their contributions, and provides information on how the results of the critique will be documented and shared.

The correct answer is A. Type I construction consists of structural members of approved noncombustible or limited combustible materials with specified fire resistance ratings for exterior bearing walls of 3 or 4 hours. This is the highest level of fire resistance among the five types of construction defined by NFPA 220: Standard for Types of Building Construction.Type I construction is typically used for high-rise buildings made of concrete and protected steel12

Probabilistic fire models are categorized into network, statistical, simulation, and behavioral models. Network models use graph theory to represent the fire spread and the fire protection system in a building. Statistical models use historical data and probability distributions to estimate the likelihood and consequences of fire scenarios. Simulation models use mathematical equations and numerical methods to describe the physical and chemical processes of fire and its effects on the environment and the occupants. Behavioral models use psychological and sociological theories to predict the human response and evacuation behavior in case of fire. Network models are not a common category of probabilistic fire models, and they are not mentioned in the sources provided by the user. Therefore, network models are the correct answer.

References:Probabilistic Fire Simulation Assessment Using Simplified Model and Zone Modelling of a Kitchen Fire Scenario;Computer Fire Models for Fire Investigation and Reconstruction;Fire Behavior

According to NFPA 13, Table 17.4.2.1 (a), the maximum distance between hangers for an automatic fire sprinkler system for a threaded lightwall steel pipe of 2 in. diameter is 10 ft. This is done to ensure that there are not long stretches of unsecured piping that could sag, leak, or break. The distance between hangers may vary depending on the type of pipe, the type of hanger, and the seismic design category of the building.References:NFPA 13, Table 17.4.2.1 (a);Hangers and Support of Sprinkler System Piping | NFPA | NFPA.

The correct answer is B. In wide-open spaces, the sound pressure level (SPL) decreases by 6 decibels (dB) every time the distance from the source is doubled. This is known as the inverse square law of sound propagation, which states that the intensity of sound is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source.For example, if the SPL at 1 meter from the source is 100 dB, then the SPL at 2 meters from the source is 94 dB, and the SPL at 4 meters from the source is 88 dB123

An as built plan review is a type of plan review that may provide information about a modification such as the removal of an abandoned underground flammable liquid tank. An as built plan review is conducted after the construction or alteration of a building orsystem is completed and before the final approval or acceptance by the AHJ. An as built plan review verifies that the building or system conforms to the approved plans and specifications and complies with the applicable codes and standards. An as built plan review may also identify any changes or deviations from the original plans that occurred during the construction or alteration process, such as the removal of an underground tank.References:

• NFPA 1: Fire Code, 2018 Edition, Section 1.12.8.1.11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.3.42

ANSI S1.4a

Sound meters used to test notification appliances in fire alarm systems shall comply with the standard ANSI S1.4a, Specifications for Sound Level Meters, Type 2 requirements, according to NFPA 72 2010, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.This standard specifies the performance and accuracy criteria for sound level meters that are used to measure the sound pressure levels of audible signals in fire alarm systems1

According to the CDC, exposure to hydrogen fluoride at concentrations of less than 50 ppm for two minutes may cause mild eye and upper respiratory tract irritation. The severity of the effects depends on the concentration, duration, and route of exposure, as well as the individual’s susceptibility. Higher concentrations or longer exposures can cause more serious health effects, such as pulmonary edema, skin burns, or systemic toxicity.References:CDC | Facts About Hydrogen Fluoride (Hydrofluoric Acid); [Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) | Medical Management Guidelines | Toxic Substance Portal | ATSDR]2; [Hydrogen Fluoride and Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) - GOV.UK]3.

The minimum width of a doorway in a means of egress to accommodate a person in a wheelchair is 32 inches (813 mm).This is based on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the International Building Code (IBC), which both specify that doors in a path of egress and doors on an accessible route must have a clear opening width of at least 32 inches (813 mm)12. This width allows enough space for a person in a wheelchair to maneuver through the doorway without difficulty. A wider doorway may be preferable for some types of wheelchairs or other assistive devices, but 32 inches (813 mm) is the minimum standard for accessibility and safety.References:DECODED: Calculating the Egress Width of Door Openings - I Dig Hardware;Digital Codes.

Acetylene

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The ignition temperature of acetylene gas is 581° F (305° C). This is the minimum temperature required to ignite a gas or vapor in air without a spark or flame being present. The ignition temperature of acetylene gas varies according to composition, initial pressure, initial temperature, and water vapor content.As a typical example, an air mixture containing 30 percent acetylene by volume at atmospheric pressure can be ignited at about 581 °F (305°C)1.

References:Fuels and Chemicals - Autoignition Temperatures - The Engineering ToolBox;Ignition Temperatures and Group Classifications for Flammable Gases and Vapors;Is Acetylene Flammable? - Firefighter Insider;Ignition temperature acetylene - Big Chemical Encyclopedia;Acetylene Gas- its Characteristics and Safety Requirements

Fire pump

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A suction in-line fire pump has a pressure range that can exceed 300 psi (2,068 kPa). This type of pump is a centrifugal pump that is installed in a vertical position with the suction and discharge connections in the same line. The pump is designed to handle high pressures and flows, and it is suitable for high-rise buildings and other applications that require high head.According to NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection, a suction in-line fire pump can have a rated pressure of up to 360 psi (2,482 kPa)1.The other types of fire pumps mentioned in the question have lower pressure ranges, as shown in the table below2:

Type of fire pump

Pressure range (psi)

Pressure range (kPa)

Horizontal-end suction

40 to 150

276 to 1,034

Split case

40 to 150

276 to 1,034

Vertical turbine

40 to 150

276 to 1,034

Suction in-line

40 to 360

276 to 2,482

References:NFPA 20: Fire pump design | Consulting - Specifying Engineer;Understanding the Basics of Fire Pumps | Pumps & Systems

Zebra mussel

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The correct answer is B. Zebra mussel pipe obstructions are largely concentrated around the Great Lakes and Mississippi River areas. Zebra mussels are an invasive species that originated from Eurasia and were introduced to North America in the late 1980s through the ballast water of ships. They have since spread to many freshwater lakes and rivers, especially in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States and Canada. Zebra mussels can attach themselves to hard surfaces, such as pipes, pumps, valves, and filters, and form dense colonies that reduce or block the water flow. This can cause serious problems for industries, utilities, and municipalities that rely on water intake or delivery systems.Zebra mussels can also damage aquatic ecosystems, infrastructure, and recreation by competing with native species, altering water quality, and fouling boats and equipment12345

According to NFPA 230: Standard for the Fire Protection of Storage, 2015 Edition, building codes should limit the size of an unsprinklered facility used for the processing and storage of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) built of type V construction to 7,500 ft2 (697 m2). This is based on the assumption that the MSW has a heat release rate of 18,000 Btu/ft2-min (200 kW/m2) and a fire growth rate of 0.046 min-1.Type V construction is defined as a type of construction in which the structural elements, exterior walls, and interior walls are of any materials permitted by the code123

References:

• NFPA 230: Standard for the Fire Protection of Storage
• 5 Types of Construction per the IBC | Building Code Trainer
• 2.4 MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE LANDFILLS - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

The background color used from the source to the outlets of a nitrous oxide medical gas system is blue. This is the standard color coding for nitrous oxide cylinders and pipelines in medical gas pipeline systems12. The color coding helps to identify the gas type and prevent accidental misconnections or cross-contamination3. The color coding also indicates the pressure and flow characteristics of the gas system4. References:

• Colour coding of copper pipes in Medical gas pipeline system according …
• Doc 177 20 Medical Gas Cylinders Colour Coding - EIGA
• Medical Gas Coding Color Chart & Explanation - Bay Corporation
• Medical gases Health Technical Memorandum 02-01: Medical gas pipeline …

According to NFPA 72, the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) for a fire alarm system is 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance1.However, this limit can be exceeded if the sound pressure level measured 2 000 mm above floor level is not more than 100 dBA2. Sound pressure level is a measure of the intensity of sound at a given point in space, expressed in decibels (dB). The higher the SPL, the louder the sound.For comparison, a normal conversation is about 60 dB, a jet engine is about 140 dB, and a gunshot is about 160 dB3.References:Sound Pressure Levels - NFPA;NFPA fire alarm sound level - EntirelySafe.com;Subsection 907.5 - Occupantnotification systems - Casetext;How Loud Is a Fire Alarm In Decibels (dB)? With Noise Comparison Chart;The Ontario Building Code | Audibility of Alarm Systems.

650° F(343° C).

Heat transfer oils are fluids that are used to transfer heat from one source to another in various industrial applications, such as chemical processing, oil refining, power generation, and food processing. Heat transfer oils can be classified into two types: mineral oils and synthetic oils. Mineral oils are derived from petroleum and have a lower cost and a lower flash point than synthetic oils.Synthetic oils are made from organic or silicone compounds and have a higher thermal stability and a higher flash point than mineral oils1

The maximum temperature that heat transfer oils can be used up to depends on the type and quality of the oil, as well as the design and operation of the heat transfer system. Different oils have different boiling points, viscosity, thermal conductivity, and thermal degradation rates.Generally, synthetic oils can withstand higher temperatures than mineral oils, but they are also more expensive and may require special handling and storage1

According to the web search results, the maximum temperature that heat transfer oils can be used up to ranges from 300°C to 400°C (572°F to 752°F), depending on the specific product and manufacturer.For example, the product brochure from Klüber Lubrication states that their heat transfer oils have an application range of operating temperatures up to 550°F (288°C)2.The product data sheet from Sinopec states that their heat transfer oils can be used up to 540°F (282°C)3.The product information from Paratherm states that their high temperature heat transfer fluids have service temperatures of 3°C to 357°C (37°F to 675°F)4. Therefore, based on these sources, the closest answer to the question is B. 650° F(343° C). However, it is important to note that the maximum temperature that heat transfer oils can be used up to may vary depending on the specific conditions and requirements of each application.

References:

• Heat Transfer Fluids - A Comparison of Types1
• High-temperature heat transfer fluids - Dow5
• Heat Transfer Oils - klueber.com2
• Heat Transfer Oil Suppliers | Heat Transfer Oils include low …3
• High Temperature Heat Transfer Fluids | Paratherm4