NICET Electrical Systems for Fire Protection 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which article of the National Electrical Code (NEC) governs fire alarm system wiring?
- Article 700
- Article 720
- Article 760 (Correct answer)
- Article 800
Correct answer: Article 760
NEC Article 760 covers the installation of wiring and equipment for fire alarm systems in buildings.
Question 2: What type of cable is listed for use in fire alarm systems according to NEC Article 760?
- THHN
- NM-B
- FPL or FPLR (Correct answer)
- USE-2
Correct answer: FPL or FPLR
FPL (Fire Power Limited) and FPLR (Fire Power Limited Riser) cables are specifically listed for fire alarm system wiring under NEC Article 760.
Question 3: What is the maximum voltage for a Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) circuit?
- 30V
- 50V
- 150V (Correct answer)
- 600V
Correct answer: 150V
Power-limited fire alarm circuits operate at a maximum of 150 volts under NEC Article 760.
Question 4: Under NEC Article 760, where must PLFA cables be separated from non-power-limited conductors?
- No separation required if in the same conduit
- Separated by a minimum 2-inch gap in open wiring or installed in separate raceways (Correct answer)
- Only separated in areas above suspended ceilings
- Separated only when voltages differ by more than 100V
Correct answer: Separated by a minimum 2-inch gap in open wiring or installed in separate raceways
PLFA cables must be separated from non-power-limited conductors by at least 2 inches in open wiring or run in separate raceways to prevent induction and damage.
Question 5: What is required when a fire alarm circuit passes through a fire-rated wall?
- No special requirements apply
- A fire-rated conduit sleeve or listed firestop system must be used (Correct answer)
- The circuit must be rerouted to avoid the wall
- Only metal conduit may be used
Correct answer: A fire-rated conduit sleeve or listed firestop system must be used
Fire alarm circuit penetrations through fire-rated assemblies must be protected with listed firestop systems to maintain the fire rating of the assembly.
Question 6: What does the term 'survivability' mean in the context of fire alarm circuits?
- The ability of a detector to withstand high temperatures
- The circuit's ability to continue operating during a fire (Correct answer)
- The backup battery duration
- The surge protection rating of the panel
Correct answer: The circuit's ability to continue operating during a fire
Survivability refers to the capability of fire alarm circuits to continue functioning and transmitting signals during a fire event.
NICET Electrical Systems for Fire Protection 1
Which article of the National Electrical Code (NEC) governs fire alarm system wiring?