NFPA CFPS Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) Exam Practice Test

The minimum carbon dioxide design concentration for extinguishment of an ethylene fire is43%. This is based on the cup burner method, which is a standard test to determine the flame extinguishing concentration of a gaseous agent for a liquid fuel. Ethylene is a flammable gas that can form a liquid under pressure. The cup burner method involves placing a liquid fuel in a metal cup with a central nozzle, and flowing a gaseous agent through the nozzle to create a diffusion flame. The gaseous agent is gradually increased until the flame is extinguished.The minimum concentration of the gaseous agent required to extinguish the flame is recorded as the flame extinguishing concentration1.According to a study by NIST, the flame extinguishing concentration of carbon dioxide for ethylene was found to be 43%1.This value is also consistent with the NFPA 12 standard, which specifies the minimum design concentrations of carbon dioxide for various fuels, including ethylene2.

Governor

For engine driven emergency power supplies, the device that maintains a relatively constant speed of the prime mover throughout the full power output range by varying the fuel input to the prime mover is the governor. A governor is a device that automatically regulates the speed or power of an engine or other prime mover by adjusting the amount of fuel supplied to it. A governor senses the speed of the prime mover and compares it with a desired set point, and then controls the fuel valve to increase or decrease the fuel flow accordingly.By doing so, the governor ensures that the prime mover operates within a narrow range of speed or power, regardless of the load or other factors that may affect its performance12

650° F(343° C).

Heat transfer oils are fluids that are used to transfer heat from one source to another in various industrial applications, such as chemical processing, oil refining, power generation, and food processing. Heat transfer oils can be classified into two types: mineral oils and synthetic oils. Mineral oils are derived from petroleum and have a lower cost and a lower flash point than synthetic oils.Synthetic oils are made from organic or silicone compounds and have a higher thermal stability and a higher flash point than mineral oils1

The maximum temperature that heat transfer oils can be used up to depends on the type and quality of the oil, as well as the design and operation of the heat transfer system. Different oils have different boiling points, viscosity, thermal conductivity, and thermal degradation rates.Generally, synthetic oils can withstand higher temperatures than mineral oils, but they are also more expensive and may require special handling and storage1

According to the web search results, the maximum temperature that heat transfer oils can be used up to ranges from 300°C to 400°C (572°F to 752°F), depending on the specific product and manufacturer.For example, the product brochure from Klüber Lubrication states that their heat transfer oils have an application range of operating temperatures up to 550°F (288°C)2.The product data sheet from Sinopec states that their heat transfer oils can be used up to 540°F (282°C)3.The product information from Paratherm states that their high temperature heat transfer fluids have service temperatures of 3°C to 357°C (37°F to 675°F)4. Therefore, based on these sources, the closest answer to the question is B. 650° F(343° C). However, it is important to note that the maximum temperature that heat transfer oils can be used up to may vary depending on the specific conditions and requirements of each application.

References:

• Heat Transfer Fluids - A Comparison of Types1
• High-temperature heat transfer fluids - Dow5
• Heat Transfer Oils - klueber.com2
• Heat Transfer Oil Suppliers | Heat Transfer Oils include low …3
• High Temperature Heat Transfer Fluids | Paratherm4

Wet chemical extinguishing agents, such as potassium acetate and potassium citrate, when sprayed on a grease fire, extinguish the fire by smothering and cooling. The wet chemical agent reacts with the hot grease and forms a layer of soap-like foam on the surface of the fat, which acts as an insulation between the hot grease and the atmosphere, preventing the escape of combustible vapors and oxygen supply.The wet chemical agent also absorbs heat from the grease and lowers its temperature below the ignition point12

References:

• What is the Difference Between a Wet and Dry Chemical Fire …
• Wet Chemical (Class K) Fire Extinguisher - Portable - WFX

Hazardous waste

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The correct answer is C. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards require solid waste be treated as hazardous if it is a listed waste and/or meets the characteristics prescribed by the standard for toxicity, reactivity, corrosivity, andignitability.A listed waste is a waste that appears on one of the four lists of hazardous wastes in the Code ofFederal Regulations (CFR) part 261 subpart D1.A characteristic waste is a waste that exhibits one or more of the following traits: toxicity, reactivity, corrosivity, or ignitability2. Toxicity is the ability of a waste to leach harmful chemicals into the environment. Reactivity is the tendency of a waste to undergo violent chemical reactions or generate toxic gases. Corrosivity is the property of a waste to corrode metals or damage living tissues.Ignitability is the capacity of a waste to catch fire under certain conditions2.These characteristics are defined by specific tests and criteria in the CFR part 261 subpart C3.The EPA standards for hazardous waste are based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which is the federal law that regulates the management of solid and hazardous waste in the United States4.

The correct answer is C. To perform routine housekeeping and equipment maintenance operations during nonproduction hours would NOT be an appropriate purpose for employing a guard service to protect a property against fire loss. A guard service is typically hired to provide security and protection for a property, not to perform other tasks that are unrelated to fire prevention or control. Housekeeping and equipment maintenance operations should be done by qualified and authorized personnel who are trained and equipped to handle any potential fire hazards. A guard service may not have the necessary skills, tools, or authority to perform these operations safely and effectively.Moreover, these operations may interfere with the guard service’s primary duty of monitoring and patrolling the property for any signs of fire or intrusion12345

According to NFPA 400, Table 5.2.1.1.3, the maximum allowable quantity (MAQ) of a nonliquified oxidizing gas per control area in an unsprinklered area is 2000 ft3 (56 m3) when stored in a gas cabinet. This quantity can be increased by 100% if the area is sprinklered or by 300% if the area is also provided with a gas detection system. A gas cabinet is a ventilated enclosure for the storage of one or more compressed gas containers that provides a method of control for potential leakage or fire exposure hazards [NFPA 400, 3.3.32].References:NFPA 400, Table 5.2.1.1.3;NFPA 400, 3.3.32;NFPA 400, 5.2.1.1.3.1;NFPA 400, 5.2.1.1.3.2.

Class 3 unstable reactive gas is defined as a material that in itself is capable of detonation or explosive decomposition or reaction at normal temperatures and pressures with a strong initiating source or if heated under confinement. This class of gas readily undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures.

References:NFPA 55: Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code, 2016 Edition, Section 3.3.51.14.3;International Fire Code, 2015 Edition, Appendix E, Section E102.1.1

The minimum width of a doorway in a means of egress to accommodate a person in a wheelchair is 32 inches (813 mm).This is based on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the International Building Code (IBC), which both specify that doors in a path of egress and doors on an accessible route must have a clear opening width of at least 32 inches (813 mm)12. This width allows enough space for a person in a wheelchair to maneuver through the doorway without difficulty. A wider doorway may be preferable for some types of wheelchairs or other assistive devices, but 32 inches (813 mm) is the minimum standard for accessibility and safety.References:DECODED: Calculating the Egress Width of Door Openings - I Dig Hardware;Digital Codes.

Fire extinguisher

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smothering.

The primary mechanism by which carbon dioxide extinguishes fire is smothering, or displacing the oxygen that the fire needs to sustain combustion. Carbon dioxide is a gas that is heavier than air, so when it is released from the extinguisher, it forms a blanket over the fire and pushes away the oxygen.Without oxygen, the fire cannot continue to burn and is extinguished1234

Cooling is a secondary mechanism by which carbon dioxide extinguishes fire. Carbon dioxide is stored as a liquid under high pressure in the extinguisher, and when it is released, it expands rapidly and cools down. The cold gas absorbs heat from the fire and lowers the temperature of the fuel below its ignition point.However, cooling is not the main effect of carbon dioxide, as it is less effective than water in reducing the heat of the fire1234

Saponification and chemical inhibition are not mechanisms by which carbon dioxide extinguishes fire. Saponification is a process by which wet chemical agents react with fats and oils to form a soapy foam that seals the surface of the fire and prevents re-ignition. Chemical inhibition is a process by which dry chemical agents interfere with the chemical chain reaction of the fire and stop the production of free radicals that propagate the combustion.These mechanisms are used by other types of fire extinguishers, such as Class K and Class D extinguishers, respectively1234

References:

• Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers - University of South Carolina4
• How Does A Co2 Fire Extinguisher Work2
• Why is Carbon Dioxide Used to Extinguish Oil Fires3
• What is a Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher?- Safeopedia1

According to the web search results, titanium is the pure metal in its solid form in oxygen that has the highest ignition temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.The spontaneous-ignition temperature of titanium in the solid phase (below melting) is about 3020°F (1660°C)1.Aluminum, potassium, and zirconium have lower ignition temperatures in the solid phase, ranging from 1292°F (700°C) to 1652°F (900°C)23.References:

• IGNITION OF METALS IN HIGH PRESSURE OXYGEN2
• Combustion of Metals in Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres3
• High-temperature oxidation and ignition of metals1

The answer is C. Human factor plays a significant role in most industrial fire and explosion losses.According to a study by Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS), human error is the cause of 80% of all industrial accidents, including fires and explosions1. Human error can include mistakes, negligence, violations, or sabotage. Some examples of human errors that can lead to fires and explosions are:

• Improper handling or storage of flammable or combustible materials
• Failure to follow safety procedures or regulations
• Lack of training or supervision
• Poor maintenance or inspection of equipment or machinery
• Ignoring or disabling alarms or warning systems
• Smoking or using open flames near hazardous areas
• Intentional or accidental ignition of explosives or incendiaries

To prevent or reduce the impact of human errors, industrial facilities should implement effective risk management strategies, such as:

• Providing regular and adequate training and education for workers and managers
• Establishing and enforcing clear and consistent safety policies and rules
• Conducting thorough and frequent audits and inspections
• Installing and maintaining reliable fire protection systems and equipment
• Developing and practicing emergency response and evacuation plans
• Encouraging a positive safety culture and communication among all stakeholders

The use of an exhaust to an abatement system during the large-scale tests made the test results difficult to interpret for use in field applications. The exhaust system was used to reduce the environmental impact of the tests, but it also altered the natural buoyancy-driven flow of the smoke and heat through the vents and draft curtains. This created a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the test building, which affected the performance of the sprinklers, vents, and draft curtains. Therefore, the test results may not accurately reflect the conditions that would occur in real buildings without an exhaust system.

References: Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Section 8.3.11; Sprinkler, Smoke and Heat Vent, Draft Curtain Interaction: Large Scale Experiments and Modeling2.

0.62

The discharge coefficient of a solid stream nozzle for a standard orifice with sharp edges is a dimensionless number that indicates the ratio of the actual flow rate to the theoretical flow rate of the nozzle. The discharge coefficient depends on the geometry and the flow conditions of the nozzle. According to the web search results, the typical discharge coefficient of a solid stream nozzle for a standard orifice with sharp edges is about 0.62, which means that the actual flow rate is about 62% of the theoretical flow rate.This value is based on the experiments conducted by the National Bureau of Standards (now NIST) and reported in the paper “Discharge Coefficients of Fire Nozzles”1.The paper also provides a formula to calculate the discharge coefficient for different nozzle diameters and pressures123

OSHA requires fire fighter training in hazardous materials, respiratory protection, and communicable diseases. According to OSHA standards, fire fighters must receive annual training in hazardous materials and infectious diseases, and initial and periodic training in respiratory protection. These topics are essential for fire fighters to protect themselves and others from exposure to harmful substances and pathogens.

References:OSHA training requirements for volunteer fire company personnel;What are the Current OSHA/PESH Training Requirement for Firefighters: A Review;Training requirements for firefighters;Training Requirements in OSHA Standards

Acetylene

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The ignition temperature of acetylene gas is 581° F (305° C). This is the minimum temperature required to ignite a gas or vapor in air without a spark or flame being present. The ignition temperature of acetylene gas varies according to composition, initial pressure, initial temperature, and water vapor content.As a typical example, an air mixture containing 30 percent acetylene by volume at atmospheric pressure can be ignited at about 581 °F (305°C)1.

References:Fuels and Chemicals - Autoignition Temperatures - The Engineering ToolBox;Ignition Temperatures and Group Classifications for Flammable Gases and Vapors;Is Acetylene Flammable? - Firefighter Insider;Ignition temperature acetylene - Big Chemical Encyclopedia;Acetylene Gas- its Characteristics and Safety Requirements

Response Time Index (RTI) is a measure of thermal sensitivity of a sprinkler’s activation. It indicates how quickly the sprinkler responds to the heat from a fire. RTI is calculated by using the operating time, operating temperature, air temperature, air velocity, and conductivity factor of the sprinkler. RTI is independent of the gas velocity but depends on the properties of the sprinkler head such as mass, specific heat capacity andsurface area of the thermal sensing element. RTI is used to classify sprinklers into fast response or standard response categories.

References:The Basics of Sprinkler Thermal Characteristics | NFPA;Sprinkler Characteristics According to NFPA 13 - Fire Protection …;Response time index (RTI) - Oil and Gas Drilling Glossary;RESPONSE TIME INDEX OF SPRINKLERS - Department of Building Environment …

25%

Explosions or fires from flammable gas or oil fuel vapor-air mixtures may be prevented by ventilation and controls that keep the flammable vapor content below 25% of the lower flammable limit (LFL) of the vapor-air mixture, according to the web search results. The LFL is the lowest concentration of a gas or vapor in air that can produce a flash of fire in the presence of an ignition source. Below the LFL, the mixture is too lean to burn. The LFL varies for different gases and vapors, and it is usually expressed as a percentage by volume of air at 25°C and atmospheric pressure. For example, the LFL of methane is 4.4%, which means that a mixture of methane and air with less than 4.4% methane cannot ignite. To prevent explosions or fires, the concentration of flammable gases or vapors should be kept below 25% of their LFL, which is equivalent to 1.1% methane in this case. Ventilation, natural or mechanical, is one of the methods to achieve this by diluting the flammable gases or vapors with fresh air.Controls, such as gas detectors, alarms, valves, and interlocks, are another method to monitor and regulate the flammable gas or vapor levels and prevent them from reaching dangerous concentrations1234

Cellulose nitrate products begin to decompose at about 300 °F (150 °C). This is the temperature at which the nitrate ester bonds start to break down and release nitric acid, which further catalyzes the decomposition. The decomposition temperature depends on the nitrogen content, the stabilizers, and the external heating rate of the cellulose nitrate. Higher nitrogen content, lower stabilizer concentration, and faster heating rate lower the decomposition temperature and increase the risk of thermal runaway.

References:Nitrocellulose - Wikipedia;Comparative analysis of stable decomposition and combustion kinetics of nitrated cellulose;Degradation of aged nitrocellulose investigated by thermal analysis methods;Nitrocellulose;Effect of stabilizers and nitrogen content on thermal properties of nitrocellulose

Large quantities of flammable or combustible liquids (all classes) are best transferred through piping by pumps. This method minimizes the risk of spills, leaks, fires, and explosions that may occur when transferring liquids by other means, such as air pressure, inert gas pressure, or gravity flow. Piping systems should be designed, installed, operated, and maintained in accordance with NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code and other applicable standards. Piping systems should also include proper grounding and bonding, venting, and emergency shutoff devices to prevent static electricity, overpressure, and accidental release of liquids.

References: NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, 2021 Edition, Chapter 271; Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Section 8.3.12.

The type of property classifications that experience the majority of fire deaths in the United States areone- and two-family dwellings.According to the NFPA, one- and two-family dwellings accounted for 64 percent of all civilian fire deaths in 2021, followed by apartments with 11 percent, and other residential properties with 1 percent1.One- and two-family dwellings are more vulnerable to fire fatalities because they often lack adequate fire protection systems, such as smoke alarms and sprinklers, and havemore potential sources of ignition, such as cooking, heating, and smoking2. Additionally, one- and two-family dwellings may have less escape routes, longer response times, and more occupants, especially children and elderly, who are at higher risk of fire death.References:

• US Fire Loss in 2021 NFPA
• Home Structure Fires - NFPA
• [Fire Death Rate Trends: An International Perspective]

The phenomenon of convergence cluster formation in human fire behavior was identified in 1979 in a university dormitory fire. This phenomenon refers to the tendency of people to gather in groups near familiar exits or locations during a fire, rather than seeking alternative escape routes1. This can result in congestion, delay, and increased risk of injury or death2. The university dormitory fire occurred at the Providence College in Rhode Island, where 10 students died and 40 were injured. The fire started in a trash chute and spread to the upper floors. Many students tried to escape through the main stairwell, which became blocked by smoke and flames. Some students jumped from the windows, while others remained trapped in their rooms. The fire revealed the lack of fire safety education, fire drills, and fire protection systems in the dormitory3. References:

• Human Behavior in Fire Emergencies
• Human Behavior in Fire: Understanding Human Behavior for Better Fire Safety Design
• Providence College Dormitory Fire

An as built plan review is a type of plan review that may provide information about a modification such as the removal of an abandoned underground flammable liquid tank. An as built plan review is conducted after the construction or alteration of a building orsystem is completed and before the final approval or acceptance by the AHJ. An as built plan review verifies that the building or system conforms to the approved plans and specifications and complies with the applicable codes and standards. An as built plan review may also identify any changes or deviations from the original plans that occurred during the construction or alteration process, such as the removal of an underground tank.References:

• NFPA 1: Fire Code, 2018 Edition, Section 1.12.8.1.11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.3.42

Fire tests typically relate to two types of fire properties, fire resistance and reaction to fire. Fire resistance is the ability of a building element or component to prevent the passage of heat and flames from one side to another, while reaction to fire is the response of a material or product in contributing to the development and spread of a fire. Fire resistance tests are usually performed on systems or assemblies, such as walls, floors, doors, or windows, while reaction to fire tests are usually performed on materials or products, such as sealants, insulation, cladding, or plastics.References:International Standards and Classifications for Fire Testing - Sika;Testing for Fire Resistance and Reaction to Fire – ICC NTA;‘Reaction to Fire’ Vs ‘Fire resistance’ - Ask HILTI;What is the difference between Reaction to Fire and Resistance to Fire …;Reaction to Fire vs Resistance to Fire | Nullifire UK

The removal of flammable vapors by displacement for cleaning a storage tank can be accomplished by displacement with air, inert gas, and water. Water is a common method of displacing flammable vapors from tanks, as it is readily available, inexpensive, and non-reactive with most fuels. Water can be sprayed into the tank to create a water seal that prevents the vapors from escaping and reduces the oxygen concentration in the tank. Water can also be used to rinse the tank walls and remove any residual fuel. However, water displacement may not be suitable for some tanks that contain water-sensitive or water-soluble fuels, or for tanks that have limited drainage or disposal facilities.

References:ust permanent closure requirements - Nevada;A Guide to Safety in Confined Spaces - CDC Stacks;Fire Explosion Prevention – Visual Encyclopedia of Chemical Engineering …

A proprietary fire alarm system is a type of fire alarm system that transmits signals that are permanently recorded at a constantly attended supervising station located either at the protected premises or at another location of the property owner. A proprietary fire alarm system is owned and operated by the property owner or the owner’s agent. A proprietary fire alarm system is intended to provide fire alarm service to a single property or a campus of related properties.References:

• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2019 Edition, Section 3.3.105.11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.1.12

The correct answer is B. In wide-open spaces, the sound pressure level (SPL) decreases by 6 decibels (dB) every time the distance from the source is doubled. This is known as the inverse square law of sound propagation, which states that the intensity of sound is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source.For example, if the SPL at 1 meter from the source is 100 dB, then the SPL at 2 meters from the source is 94 dB, and the SPL at 4 meters from the source is 88 dB123

Panic hardware devices are designed to facilitate the release of the latching device on a door with a pressure not exceeding 15 pounds (6.8 kg.) is applied in the direction of exit travel. This is the maximum force allowed by the codes and standards that regulate the use and installation of panic hardware, such as NFPA 101, NFPA 80, and ANSI/BHMA A156.3. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that the doors can be easily opened by anyone in an emergency situation, without prior knowledge or special effort.References:Codes to Know for Panic Hardware - Facilitiesnet;Panic and emergency escape hardware | ASSA ABLOY | ASSA ABLOY; NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, 2023 Edition, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.1.7.2; NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives, 2023 Edition, Chapter 6, Section 6.1.3.5.1; ANSI/BHMA A156.3, Standard for Exit Devices, 2014 Edition, Section 4.1.1.

Smoke detector

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Detectors using the photoelectric principle do not use a small amount of radioactive material. This is a false statement about smoke detectors. Detectors using the photoelectric principle use a light source and a light sensor to detect the presence of smoke. When smoke enters the detection chamber, it scatters the light and triggers the alarm.Detectors using the photoelectric principle are more responsive to low-energy (smoldering) fires that produce large smoke particles12.

Detectors using the cloud chamber principle also use the photoelectric principle. This is a true statement about smoke detectors. Detectors using the cloud chamber principle usea sealed chamber that contains a supersaturated vapor. When smoke enters the chamber, it causes the vapor to condense into droplets that reflect light. The light is then detected by a photoelectric sensor that activates the alarm.Detectors using the cloud chamber principle are very sensitive to small smoke particles34.

Detectors using the ionization principle provide somewhat faster response to high-energy (open flaming) fires. This is a true statement about smoke detectors. Detectors using the ionization principle use a small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air in the detection chamber. When smoke enters the chamber, it reduces the ionization and the electric current. The drop in current is then detected by a circuit that activates the alarm.Detectors using the ionization principle are more responsive to high-energy (open flaming) fires that produce small smoke particles12.

Detectors using the photoelectric principle provide somewhat faster response to low-energy (smoldering) fires. This is a true statement about smoke detectors. Detectors using the photoelectric principle use a light source and a light sensor to detect the presence of smoke. When smoke enters the detection chamber, it scatters the light and triggers the alarm.Detectors using the photoelectric principle are more responsive to low-energy (smoldering) fires that produce large smoke particles12.