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

Animpairmentoccurs when part of the life safety system isdisabled or rendered ineffective. Aclosed sprinkler valvedirectly disables part of the fire suppression system, which meets the definition of an impairment.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 3.3.149 — Impairment:

“A condition where a fire protection or life safety system or portion thereof is out of service.”

Smoke detector placement issues may be acode violationbut not a systemimpairment.Intelligible audibilityis a positive attribute, not a problem.

Correct answer: A. Closed sprinkler valve

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To verify that smoke detectors are operating within their listed sensitivity range, NFPA 72 provides three approved testing methods. These ensure proper functionality and compliance with safety requirements.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.4.4.3.1:

"Sensitivity shall be checked using any of the following methods:

(1) Calibrated test method approved by the authority having jurisdiction

(2) Listed control equipment arranged for the purpose

(3) Calibrated sensitivity test instrument of the smoke detector manufacturer"

The option "test approved by the engineer" isnot listedamong the approved sensitivity test methods in NFPA 72, and therefore is not acceptable for compliance.

Amultimeteris the standard tool used by fire alarm technicians to measure bothbattery voltageandcharging current.

NFPA 72 (2022), Table 14.4.3.2 – Testing Methods for Batteries:

Testing includes checking the voltage and current — commonly done using a multimeter.

Multimeters are capable of readingDC voltage(for battery levels) andamperage(for charge current).

Semiannualvisual inspectionof notification appliances checks theirphysical condition, mounting, visibility, and labeling— not candela or flash rate.

NFPA 72 (2022), Table 14.3.1 — Visual Inspection Frequencies:

“Visible and audible notification appliances” → Frequency: Semiannually

Method: Verify proper location and physical condition

Correct answer: C. Verify location and condition

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Before performing any inspection or testing activities, it's critical tonotify all affected parties, including occupants, central stations, and local authorities (as applicable), toprevent accidental dispatch of emergency services. The reason for this is clearly stated inNFPA 72 (2022 Edition), Section 14.2.3.1, which requires notification of all stakeholders before any test.

NFPA 72:2022 – 14.2.3.1

"Prior to any testing,all persons and facilities receiving alarm, supervisory, or trouble signals, and allbuilding occupantsshall benotifiedto preventunnecessary response."

This is critical for avoiding disruptions like fire department rollouts or building evacuations that could be triggered by system activations during a test. That makes the correct answer:

D. Unnecessary response