Inspection & Quality Control Flashcards
7 cards from real CAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Inspection & Quality Control flashcards as text
A passive infrared (PIR) motion detector is repeatedly triggering false alarms near a window. What is the most likely cause?
Answer: Direct sunlight or radiant heat changes through the window are entering the detection zone
PIR detectors sense infrared radiation changes; rapid temperature shifts from sunlight through glass mimic body heat signatures and cause false trips.
What is the maximum permitted voltage drop across a notification appliance circuit (NAC) that causes concern during inspection?
Answer: Voltage at the last device must remain within the device's listed operating voltage range
NFPA 72 and device listings require that all appliances receive voltage within their listed operating range under full load conditions.
During a quality control walkthrough, the inspector notes a strobe mounted at 96 inches above finished floor (AFF) in a corridor. What is the issue?
Answer: NFPA 72 requires strobes in corridors to be mounted between 80 and 96 inches AFF, so 96 inches is at the maximum limit and should be verified as compliant
NFPA 72 allows corridor strobe mounting between 80 and 96 inches AFF; 96 inches is compliant but at the limit and should be confirmed.
A technician is reviewing installation records and finds no documentation of a pre-signal delay programmed into the fire alarm system. Why is this significant?
Answer: Pre-signal delays require AHJ approval and must be documented; their use is restricted to specific occupancy types
NFPA 72 permits pre-signal (positive alarm sequence) only in specific occupancy types with AHJ approval and mandatory documentation.
What action is required when an inspection finds that a fire alarm control panel has been modified with unauthorized field wiring not shown on approved drawings?
Answer: Document the discrepancy, notify the AHJ, and update as-built drawings to reflect the actual installation
Unauthorized modifications must be reported to the AHJ and as-built drawings updated to maintain code compliance and accurate system records.
Which condition would cause an initiating device circuit (IDC) to show a TROUBLE condition rather than an ALARM on the panel?
Answer: An open wire break on the circuit with no devices in alarm
An open wire fault on a supervised IDC causes a trouble indication because the supervisory current path is broken without any device triggering an alarm.
A CAT Level I technician is performing acceptance testing on a newly installed system. Which document defines the minimum tests that must be performed before the system can be approved for operation?
Answer: The NFPA 72 Chapter 14 acceptance testing requirements and the manufacturer's commissioning checklist
NFPA 72 Chapter 14 prescribes mandatory acceptance testing procedures, which must be supplemented by manufacturer commissioning documentation.