NICET ITFAS-Level-1 - Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems Level I Exam

NFPA 72 outlines theretention period for recordsof inspections and testing in Section14.6.3.1. These records are important for verification during audits or when reviewing system maintenance history.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.6.3.1:

"Records shall be retained for a period of one year after the next test and until the next test is performed."

This means records must be keptuntil the next test happensand for1 year after that, not just a fixed calendar period.

Correct answer: D. Until the next test and 1 year

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NFPA requiresdaily visual inspectionof fire alarm control equipment if it isnot monitored(not connected to a supervising station). This is to manually check for trouble lights, alarms, or other fault indications.

NFPA 72 (2022), Table 14.3.1 — Control Equipment (not monitored):

Visual inspection frequency: Daily

Correct answer: A. Daily

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Sound level readings for fire alarm audible notification appliances must be taken at a consistent, standardized height to ensure compliance with required dBA levels.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 18.4.6.1:

“Sound pressure level measurements shall be taken with a sound level meter positioned 5 ft (1.5 m) above the floor in the area required to be served by the system.”

This applies to bothpublic mode(e.g., schools, offices) andprivate mode(e.g., staff-only zones like hospitals).

Correct answer: B. 5.0 feet (1.5 meters)

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Testing of engine-driven generators is governed byNFPA 110, not NFPA 72. NFPA 72 references this standard for standby power systems.

NFPA 110 (2022), Section 8.4.1:

“Diesel generator sets shall be exercised at least once weekly.”

This includes running the generator under load and verifying automatic start capability.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 10.6.3.2:

Refers to NFPA 110 for testing of standby/emergency power systems.

Correct answer: A. Weekly

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NFPA 72 specifies a strict timeframe for the automatic switchover tosecondary powerafter loss of primary power.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 10.6.7.1.2:

“Transfer to secondary power shall occur within 30 seconds after loss of primary power.”

This ensures uninterrupted monitoring and alarm functions during outages.

Correct answer: B. 30

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If you choosenot to send a sample of devices to a lab for testing, thenall nonrestorable, fixed-temperature spot-type heat detectorsmust be replaced after 15 years.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.4.4.4.1:

“After 15 years from the date of installation, all fixed-temperature, nonrestorable heat detectors shall be replaced or tested using a method approved by the manufacturer.”

If testing isnot performed, thenreplacement of all devices is required.

Correct answer: D. Replace all devices

Candela ratings arevisually confirmedduringinitial acceptance. Further inspection is requiredonly if a device malfunction occursor areacceptance testis performed.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 18.5.5.7:

“The candela rating shall be verified at initial acceptance and when there is reason to believe the device is not operating properly.”

This question is referring tosupervisory signaling for control valvesin sprinkler systems. When a valve begins to move from its normal (open) position, the fire alarm system must detect and signal thisbefore it reaches too far out of position.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 17.16.1.3:

"Off-normal signal shall be initiated during the first one-quarter (1/4) of the valve travel distance from its normal position."

This ensures timely detection if someone begins to close a sprinkler valve, which could disable the fire suppression system.

Correct answer: B. 1/4

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NFPA 72 definesinspectionas avisual examinationof a system or component to verify that it appears to be in operating condition and is free of physical damage.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 3.3.138 — Inspection:

“A visual examination of a system or portion thereof to verify that it appears to be in operating condition and is free of physical damage.”

Testing, on the other hand, involves functional activation.

Correct answer: D. Visual inspection only

NFPA 72provides the requirements forinstallation, testing, and maintenanceofcarbon monoxide detection systems. This includes required signals, testing intervals, and integration with fire alarm control units.

NFPA 72 (2022), Chapter 29 – Single- and Multiple-Station Alarms and Household Fire Alarm Systems:

Also coversCO detection and testing proceduresper Section 29.10.

NFPA 720(the former CO detection standard) was integrated into NFPA 72 in recent editions.

Correct answer: C. NFPA 72

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