Free Practice Questions for NICET ITFAS-Level-1 Exam

Inspection intervals are detailed inNFPA 72, Table 14.3.1, which outlines the maximum intervals for various components. Most fire alarm system components require inspectionat least annually, which equals12 months.

NFPA 72 (2022), Table 14.3.1 – Frequency of Inspection Tasks:

You’ll see that the default maximum inspection interval for initiating devices, control equipment, and notification appliances is12 months.

Unless specifically stated otherwise (e.g., by manufacturer instructions or performance-based design), you cannot exceed that.

Correct answer: C. 12 months

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NFPA 72 defines a time requirement for how quickly a waterflow switch must respond when a sprinkler system activates. The waterflow initiating device (typically a paddle-type switch) must send an alarmwithin 90 seconds, but the system may have aretard delayof up to90 seconds, making the total allowable time120 seconds.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 17.13.2:

“Waterflow alarm-initiating devices shall be set to operate within 90 seconds after the flow begins. Retard devices shall not delay the signal more than an additional 90 seconds.”

Thus, the maximumtotal activation timeis:

90 seconds operation + 90 seconds retard =120 seconds max

Correct answer: C. 120 seconds

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If smoke detectors are installed during construction, they are likely exposed to dust or debris. NFPA 72 requires that these becleaned and tested for sensitivitybeforefinal commissioningof the system.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 17.7.1.11:

“Where detectors are used for protection during construction, they shall be cleaned or replaced prior to final system commissioning.”

This ensures proper performance and prevents false alarms.

Correct answer: B. Final commissioning

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Household fire alarm systems have different performance requirements from commercial systems, but still must support essential alarm functions under loss of primary power.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 29.10.5.1.1:

“The secondary power supply shall be capable of powering the system under quiescent load for 24 hours and then capable of operating the system during alarm for a period of 4 minutes (for general fire alarm) or 10 minutes (for household fire alarm systems).”

Correct answer: C. 24 hours in the normal condition followed by 10 minutes of alarm

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NFPA 72 places amaximum allowable sound pressure levelto prevent hearing damage or discomfort in occupied areas.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 18.4.1.5:

“The total sound pressure level produced by the fire alarm system, including ambient noise, shall not exceed 105 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance.”

This ensures alarm audibilitywithout causing harm.

Correct answer: B. 105 dBA

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Duct smoke detectors must be inspected visually to check for cleanliness, mounting condition, and airflow alignment. The minimum frequency isquarterly.

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

"Duct detectors (smoke)" → Frequency: Quarterly

This helps ensure proper functionality in HVAC systems.

Correct answer: B. Quarterly

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Engine-driven generators used for emergency power arenot governed directly by NFPA 72. Instead, their installation and testing requirements are found in:

NFPA 110 – Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems

NFPA 110 (2022), Chapter 8details howengine-driven generatorsmust be tested, including runtime, load testing, and maintenance intervals.

NFPA 72 references NFPA 110whenever standby/emergency power is used for fire alarm systems.

Correct answer: D. NFPA 110

After impairment or testing, NFPA 72 requires that all previously notified parties beinformed that the system has been returned to service. This includes those who could be affected by or responsible for system monitoring and emergency response.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 10.21.3.8:

"When the system has been returned to normal, the persons and facilities previously notified (including the supervising station, building occupants, and AHJ, where required) shall be notified that testing is complete and the system is restored."

Although "first responders" isn't explicitly listed,they’re typically contacted through the AHJ or monitoring center, so they're not usually notified directly by technicians.

Correct answers:

Authority Having Jurisdiction

Building occupants

Monitoring organization

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NFPA 72 requires strict identification and protection of theprimary power supplycircuit to the fire alarm control unit (FACU) to prevent unauthorized disconnection.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 10.6.5.2.1:

"The circuit disconnecting means shall be identified as 'FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT' at the point of disconnect and at the fire alarm control unit."

Section 10.6.5.2.2:

"A circuit breaker used as the disconnecting means shall be protected from unauthorized operation by a locking device."

There isno requirementfor the locking device to be labeled — it only must be installed.

Correct answers:

The system circuit disconnect shall be permanently identified as "Fire Alarm."

The system circuit disconnect shall be permanently identified at the control unit.

Where a circuit breaker is the disconnecting means, a breaker locking device shall be installed.

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