Fire Service & Emergency Operations Flashcards

What is the function of the 'shunt trip' or elevator power disconnect in a fire emergency?

Answer: It removes electrical power from the elevator to prevent firefighter electrocution from water

The shunt trip automatically disconnects main power to the elevator when sprinklers activate near the hoistway, preventing electrocution from water contact.

When testing Phase II firefighters' service, what verifies that the car will NOT move when the in-car Phase II switch is in the 'ON' position but no buttons are held?

Answer: The car should remain stationary; movement without a held button is a failure

In Phase II, the car must remain stationary until the operator holds a floor button and door close; spontaneous movement indicates a control system fault.

NFPA 72 specifies the performance requirements for which component that triggers Phase I elevator recall?

Answer: The smoke detectors and fire alarm initiating devices

NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, governs smoke detectors and fire alarm initiating devices that send the signal to initiate Phase I recall.

A building owner asks why some elevators have TWO designated recall floors (main and alternate). Which scenario makes the alternate level necessary?

Answer: When smoke is detected at the main designated level lobby, elevators divert to the alternate

The alternate designated level is required specifically for situations where smoke is detected in the lobby of the main designated level, preventing recall into a hazardous environment.

During a fire emergency, a passenger is trapped in an elevator car that has recalled to the lobby. The doors open but the passenger is unable to exit due to physical disability. Who has primary responsibility for assisting that passenger?

Answer: Building staff or fire department personnel at the designated level

Building staff and fire department personnel at the designated recall level are responsible for assisting passengers who cannot self-evacuate; the elevator technician's role is equipment maintenance.

Which of the following best describes 'elevator lobby' as it relates to Phase I smoke detection per ASME A17.1?

Answer: The enclosed area on each floor directly serving the elevator entrance doors

An elevator lobby for Phase I smoke detection purposes is the enclosed floor area directly serving the elevator entrance on each landing, not just the ground-floor lobby.

After a fire incident, an elevator that was used for Phase II firefighters' service should be:

Answer: Inspected by a certified elevator technician before being returned to normal service

After firefighters' service use, a certified elevator technician should inspect the equipment for damage or faults before returning the elevator to normal public service.