Fire Alarm & Detection Systems Flashcards

A fire inspector is testing a smoke detector using canned smoke. The detector does not respond after three applications. What should the inspector do?

Answer: Tag the detector as defective, notify the owner, and require replacement or repair

A detector that fails to respond to a functional test stimulus must be removed from service and repaired or replaced per NFPA 72 maintenance requirements.

In a high-rise building fire alarm system, what is the purpose of 'positive alarm sequence' (PAS)?

Answer: Allow a 15-second delay before alarm notification while an operator investigates

Positive alarm sequence provides up to a 15-second investigation period after initial detector activation, during which a trained operator can assess and confirm or override the alarm before general occupant notification.

Which statement is TRUE regarding carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in relation to fire alarm systems per NFPA 72?

Answer: CO detectors may be integrated into fire alarm systems and must produce a distinct signal

NFPA 72 permits CO detectors to be connected to fire alarm systems but requires the CO signal to be clearly distinguishable from fire alarm signals.

A fire alarm system in a hospital is required to use which type of occupant notification strategy per NFPA 101 and NFPA 72?

Answer: Defend-in-place (RACE) notifications with zoned or staged alerts

Healthcare occupancies use a defend-in-place strategy with staged or zoned notification, alerting staff to take protective action rather than triggering immediate full evacuation.

When inspecting a fire alarm system, what does a 'pre-signal' or 'presignal' system mean?

Answer: Alarm notification to occupants is deliberately delayed pending confirmation, typically allowed only with prior approval

A presignal system delays the general occupant alarm while notifying a constantly attended location first; NFPA 72 restricts its use and requires specific approval.

A fire alarm control panel has two independent power sources. What are they?

Answer: Primary (utility AC) power and secondary (battery backup) power

NFPA 72 requires fire alarm control units to have a primary power source (utility AC) and a secondary power source (storage batteries) to maintain operation during power outages.

What is the primary difference between a 'spot-type' smoke detector and a 'line-type' (projected beam) smoke detector?

Answer: Spot-type detectors sample air at a single point; beam detectors monitor a path of air between a transmitter and receiver

A spot-type detector senses smoke within its immediate housing, while a projected beam detector senses smoke along the entire light path between its emitter and reflector or receiver.