CPD CPD Fire Protection & Suppression Systems

Question 1

Which NFPA standard governs the installation of water-based fire suppression sprinkler systems in the US?

Accepted Answer

NFPA 13

Answer

NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, is the primary US standard governing the design and installation of water-based automatic fire sprinkler systems.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a fire department connection (FDC) on a sprinkler system?

Accepted Answer

To allow fire department pumper trucks to supplement system water supply during a fire

Answer

The FDC allows fire department pumper trucks to inject additional water pressure and volume into the sprinkler system when building water supply is insufficient during a fire.

Question 3

What is the difference between a wet-pipe and a dry-pipe sprinkler system?

Accepted Answer

Wet-pipe systems contain water in the piping at all times; dry-pipe systems use pressurized air with water only released upon sprinkler activation

Answer

Wet-pipe systems keep piping continuously charged with water for immediate discharge, while dry-pipe systems use pressurized air that exhausts first to allow water into the pipes only after a sprinkler opens.

Question 4

In NFPA 13 sprinkler design, what does 'hazard classification' determine?

Accepted Answer

The required water density and area of application used to size the sprinkler system

Answer

Hazard classification (light, ordinary, extra) determines the design water density in gallons per minute per square foot and the design area used to calculate sprinkler system demand.

Question 5

What is a backflow preventer's role in a fire protection system connected to a potable water supply?

Accepted Answer

To prevent contaminated fire suppression water from flowing back into the potable water supply

Answer

A backflow preventer on the fire protection supply connection ensures that water in sprinkler piping, which may contain corrosion inhibitors or other contaminants, cannot back-siphon into the potable water system.

(CPD) Certified Plumbing Designer Practice Test

(CPD) Certified Plumbing Designer Practice Test

CPD CPD Fire Protection & Suppression Systems