NFPA CFPE Certified Fire Plan Examiner Exam Practice Test

Answer : B

According to NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, the occupant load for a retail space is calculated by dividing the total floor area by the occupant load factor specified for the occupancy type. For mercantile occupancies (such as a retail bicycle shop), the occupant load factor is typically 30 square feet (2.8 square meters) per person.

Occupant Load = Total Area / Occupant Load Factor = 3,240 ft / 30 ft per person = 108 people

Therefore, the occupant load for a 3,240 ft (301 m) single-story, retail bicycle shop is 108 people.

Answer : B

To determine the residual pressure from the provided water supply graph, locate the appropriate point on the graph where the flow rate intersects with the pressure line. According to the graph, the residual pressure is around 42 psi (290 kPa), which matches option B. This value is determined by reading the vertical axis (pressure) at the point where the flow test results are plotted. The pressure reading corresponds to the data point on the dashed line provided in the water flow test summary sheet.

For detailed calculations, understanding, and verification, reference to NFPA standards, particularly those related to water flow testing, such as NFPA 13 or NFPA 25, would be necessary.

Answer : A

When field conditions necessitate a substantial change in the approved plans, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may require revised drawings. This ensures that any modifications still comply with the relevant fire codes and safety standards. The AHJ has the responsibility to ensure that all changes maintain the intended level of safety and that they are accurately documented and reviewed.

Answer : C

The graph labeled as 'Water Supply Graph N2' presents a standard water supply flow test summary, which indicates the relationship between pressure (psi or kPa) and flow (gpm or Lpm) for a specific system or hydrant.

How to interpret the graph:

Static Pressure:

This is the pressure measured when there is no water flowing, shown at the highest point on the left side of the graph (indicated as approximately 100 psi or 689 kPa in this case).

Residual Pressure:

This is the pressure available when water is flowing at a specific rate. The residual pressure line decreases as flow increases, indicating that the pressure reduces when water is drawn from the system.

Maximum Available Water:

The maximum available water is the point where the system can deliver the highest possible flow (gpm) before the residual pressure reaches a critical minimum level, indicating the system's limit.

Flow at Maximum Available Water:

In this specific graph, the point marked as Maximum Available Water is where the flow reaches 1,980 gpm (7,495 Lpm). This is derived by following the flow axis (horizontal axis) until it intersects with the Maximum Available Water curve on the graph.

Why the Correct Answer is C (1,980 gpm):

By following the plotted line for residual pressure, the graph shows that the maximum flow attainable from the system is 1,980 gpm (7,495 Lpm) before pressure drops too low. This value represents the system's maximum water supply capacity under normal operating conditions.

This analysis is consistent with the flow rates displayed on the graph and matches the key markers labeled, which indicate the operational limits of the system.

NFPA Relevance:

In fire protection and water supply systems, understanding the maximum available water flow is essential for ensuring that sufficient water can be delivered in the event of a fire. This calculation is particularly relevant in the context of NFPA 20 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection) and NFPA 25 (Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems), as these standards require that water supply systems are capable of delivering adequate flow to suppression systems under expected fire conditions.

Answer : D

According to NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, the maximum nominal spacing for spot-type smoke detectors on smooth ceilings is 30 feet (9.1 meters). This spacing ensures adequate coverage for detecting smoke in large areas and complies with the performance criteria established in the standard to provide early warning of fire conditions.

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Answer : A

According to NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, the actuation of alarm notification appliances at the protected premises shall occur within 10 seconds after the activation of an initiating device, such as a smoke detector or manual pull station. This quick response time is crucial to ensure occupants are promptly alerted to evacuate in case of a fire or emergency, minimizing potential harm or loss of life. This requirement is established to maximize safety and compliance with fire protection standards.

Answer : D

The board of appeals does not have the authority to waive code requirements, set jurisdiction precedent, or withdraw a project. However, according to NFPA 1031, the board of appeals is typically granted the right to consider alternative methods or materials to those required by code, provided that they achieve the same level of safety. This is done to allow flexibility in the application of the code while maintaining safety and compliance.

The exact provisions for the board of appeals can be found in NFPA 1031 and the relevant local building and fire codes.