BOC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield BOC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In a BAS, what does a DDC controller stand for? → Direct Digital Control
2. A boiler's 'combustion efficiency' is best improved by: → Optimizing the air-to-fuel ratio to minimize excess air while ensuring complete combustion
3. What inspection procedure is essential for safety procedures? → Systematic inspection following established checklists and standards
4. What code compliance requirement applies to material selection? → All work must comply with applicable local, state, and national codes
5. What is an 'alarm management' feature in a BAS used for? → Notifying operators when a monitored point exceeds normal operating limits
6. How should hazardous conditions be handled during maintenance protocols work? → Stop work, secure the area, report the hazard, and follow safety protocols
7. What environmental protection measure applies to quality inspection? → Proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials according to environmental regulations
8. Which bacteria is of greatest concern in a building's hot water and cooling tower systems due to risk of Legionnaires' disease? → Legionella pneumophila
9. What inspection procedure is essential for material selection? → Systematic inspection following established checklists and standards
10. What minimum hot water storage temperature does ASHRAE 188 recommend to control Legionella growth? → 140°F (60°C)
11. What environmental protection measure applies to technical measurements? → Proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials according to environmental regulations
12. Which test is used to check a sanitary drain system for leaks before walls are closed during construction or renovation? → Hydrostatic pressure test
13. What is the purpose of a feedwater economizer in a boiler system? → To preheat feedwater using waste heat from flue gases
14. What inspection procedure is essential for code compliance? → Systematic inspection following established checklists and standards
15. What is the most critical safety requirement in quality inspection? → Following all applicable safety regulations and wearing required PPE
16. What is the significance of the MAWP on a boiler nameplate? → Maximum Allowable Working Pressure — the highest safe operating pressure for that vessel
17. A boiler's Hartford Loop is designed to protect against: → Siphoning of water out of the boiler
18. Which of the following best describes an energy audit? → Analysis of energy usage patterns
19. In a BAS control network, what is the function of a router or gateway device? → To translate between different communication protocols or network segments
20. What is the most critical safety requirement in maintenance protocols? → Following all applicable safety regulations and wearing required PPE
21. What does a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) do in a building water system? → Steps down high street main pressure to a safe working pressure inside the building
22. What environmental protection measure applies to safety procedures? → Proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials according to environmental regulations
23. What is the purpose of using motion sensors in lighting systems? → Reduce energy by turning off unused lights
24. What code compliance requirement applies to quality inspection? → All work must comply with applicable local, state, and national codes
25. Which building feature most improves insulation efficiency? → Sealed windows and doors
26. What environmental protection measure applies to code compliance? → Proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials according to environmental regulations
27. What is the correct sequence for safely shutting down a steam boiler for maintenance? → Reduce load gradually, shut off fuel, allow natural cooldown, then drain when cool
28. What is the primary benefit of implementing energy conservation strategies in buildings? → Reduces energy use and costs
29. How should equipment be maintained for equipment operation operations? → Follow manufacturer-recommended preventive maintenance schedules
30. What type of valve should be installed as the main water shut-off for a building to allow full flow with minimal pressure loss? → Gate valve or full-port ball valve