CFPS Exam Dumps - Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS)

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

Scenario groupings is a data analysis approach that provides the broadest perspective of a fire problem by identifying and comparing different types of fire incidents based on their characteristics, such as ignition source, fuel, location, time, and outcome. This approach can help reveal patterns, trends, and relationships among fire scenarios and support fire prevention and protection strategies.References:Fire Data Analysis Handbook, Chapter 5: Scenario Groupings; [Fire Protection Handbook], Section 2, Chapter 3: Fire Data Collection and Analysis.

Fire pump

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A suction in-line fire pump has a pressure range that can exceed 300 psi (2,068 kPa). This type of pump is a centrifugal pump that is installed in a vertical position with the suction and discharge connections in the same line. The pump is designed to handle high pressures and flows, and it is suitable for high-rise buildings and other applications that require high head.According to NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection, a suction in-line fire pump can have a rated pressure of up to 360 psi (2,482 kPa)1.The other types of fire pumps mentioned in the question have lower pressure ranges, as shown in the table below2:

Type of fire pump

Pressure range (psi)

Pressure range (kPa)

Horizontal-end suction

40 to 150

276 to 1,034

Split case

40 to 150

276 to 1,034

Vertical turbine

40 to 150

276 to 1,034

Suction in-line

40 to 360

276 to 2,482

References:NFPA 20: Fire pump design | Consulting - Specifying Engineer;Understanding the Basics of Fire Pumps | Pumps & Systems

The background color used from the source to the outlets of a nitrous oxide medical gas system is blue. This is the standard color coding for nitrous oxide cylinders and pipelines in medical gas pipeline systems12. The color coding helps to identify the gas type and prevent accidental misconnections or cross-contamination3. The color coding also indicates the pressure and flow characteristics of the gas system4. References:

• Colour coding of copper pipes in Medical gas pipeline system according …
• Doc 177 20 Medical Gas Cylinders Colour Coding - EIGA
• Medical Gas Coding Color Chart & Explanation - Bay Corporation
• Medical gases Health Technical Memorandum 02-01: Medical gas pipeline …

According to NFPA 13, Table 17.4.2.1 (a), the maximum distance between hangers for an automatic fire sprinkler system for a threaded lightwall steel pipe of 2 in. diameter is 10 ft. This is done to ensure that there are not long stretches of unsecured piping that could sag, leak, or break. The distance between hangers may vary depending on the type of pipe, the type of hanger, and the seismic design category of the building.References:NFPA 13, Table 17.4.2.1 (a);Hangers and Support of Sprinkler System Piping | NFPA | NFPA.

According to NFPA 230: Standard for the Fire Protection of Storage, 2015 Edition, building codes should limit the size of an unsprinklered facility used for the processing and storage of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) built of type V construction to 7,500 ft2 (697 m2). This is based on the assumption that the MSW has a heat release rate of 18,000 Btu/ft2-min (200 kW/m2) and a fire growth rate of 0.046 min-1.Type V construction is defined as a type of construction in which the structural elements, exterior walls, and interior walls are of any materials permitted by the code123

References:

• NFPA 230: Standard for the Fire Protection of Storage
• 5 Types of Construction per the IBC | Building Code Trainer
• 2.4 MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE LANDFILLS - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

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

According to NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, 2018 Edition, the travel distance limit for a new unsprinklered educational occupancy is 175 ft. (53 m). This is the maximum distance that an occupant has to travel from any point within the building to reach an exit or exit access door. The travel distance limit for a new sprinklered educational occupancy is 250 ft. (76 m).These limits are based on the assumption that the building has at least two exits or exit access doors from each room or space12

References:

• NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, 2018 Edition, Chapter 14
• Deco DeD - I Dig Hardware

Smoke detector

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The smoke detector type that contains a small amount of radioactive material and functions by sensing a decrease in conductance of the air when smoke particles enter the chamber is theionization smoke detector. Ionization smoke detectors use a small amount of americium-241, a radioactive element, to ionize the air molecules inside a sensing chamber. This creates a low-level electric current between two electrodes. When smoke enters the chamber, it disrupts the ionized air and reduces the current flow. This triggers the alarm to sound.Ionization smoke detectors are more sensitive to small particles of smoke, such as those produced by flaming fires1.However, they may also be more prone to false alarms from cooking or steam, and they require proper disposal of the radioactive source2.

References:

• Smoke Detector Types: Which Type of Smoke Detector Is Best? - X-Sense
• How Does Your Smoke Detector Work? - ThoughtCo

The correct answer is D. The greatest number of civilian home fire deaths can be attributed to the common room, living room, or family room area of origin in the home. According to a report by the NFPA, based on data from the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) and NFPA’s fire experience survey, 31 percent of the civilian home fire deaths in 2017-2021 occurred in fires that started in the common room, living room, or family room. This was followed by 29 percent of the deaths in fires that started in the bedroom or sleeping area, and 12 percent of the deaths in fires that started in the kitchen or cooking area. The common room, living room, or family room area of origin is also the leading area of origin for home fires and civilian home fire injuries, accounting for 24 percent and 21 percent of those incidents, respectively. Some of the common causes of fires in the common room, living room, or family room include smoking materials, heating equipment, electrical equipment, candles, and fireplaces. To prevent fires and fire deaths in the common room, living room, or family room, the NFPA recommends the following safety tips:

• Keep smoking materials away from anything that can burn. Use deep, sturdy ashtrays and wet cigarette butts before discarding them.
• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Have a qualified electrician inspect and repair any faulty wiring or outlets. Avoid overloading circuits or extension cords. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep candles in sturdy holders and away from children, pets, and anything that can burn. Blow them out when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Have your chimney and fireplace cleaned and inspected annually by a professional. Use a metal or glass screen to keep sparks from flying out. Dispose ofashes in a metal container with a lid, and keep it outside at least 10 feet away from your home.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. Consider installing a home fire sprinkler system for added protection.

The minimum pipe diameter size for direct discharge of steam inside a water tank is 2 in. (50 mm), according to NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. This is to prevent water hammer, noise, and vibration caused by the rapid condensation of steam when it contacts the water. The pipe should also be equipped with a check valve to prevent backflow of water into the steam source.References: NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2023 Edition, Chapter 8, Section 8.16.4.5.3; NFPA Fire Protection Handbook, 21st Edition, Chapter 14, Section 14.3.4.2.

The safety class for propane refrigerant R-290 is A3, which means it has no toxicity but high flammability. The safety class is determined by the ASHRAE Standard 34, which assigns a capital letter (A or B) for the toxicity level and a number (1, 2, or 3) for the flammability level of a refrigerant. Propane has a very low global warming potential and ozone depletion potential, but it also has a very low flash point and high auto ignition temperature, which make it highly flammable in the presence of ignition sources.References:Propane R-290 | Copeland US;R-290 Propane Refrigerant Fact & Info Sheet;Safety Data Sheet - Refrigerants; NFPA Fire Protection Handbook, 21st Edition, Chapter 3, Section 3.3.4.

Fire pump

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A multistage centrifugal fire pump is defined as having two or more impellers on one shaft as a single unit. A multistage centrifugal pump is a type of centrifugal pump that uses multiple impellers to increase the pressure and flow of water.Each impeller acts like a single-stage pump within a chain of pumps, and the water passes through each impeller in series, gaining pressure and velocity at each stage1.A multistage centrifugal fire pump is used to provide high-pressure water for fire protection systems, especially in high-rise buildings or large industrial facilities2.A multistage centrifugal fire pump can be driven by an electric motor, a diesel engine, or a steam turbine3.References:

• Our Guide to Multistage Centrifugal Pumps | C&B Equipment
• Fire Pump Types | NFPA
• NFPA 20: Changes to the fire pump standard - Consulting

The maximum allowable number of clients for a family day-care home varies by state and territory, but generally ranges from four to six children unrelated to the operator. A family day-care home is a facility in which a small group of children receive child care services in the provider’s own home, such as a house, apartment, or condo unit1. To ensure a safe care environment, states and territories use child care licensing regulations to limit the number of children, as well as the number of infants and toddlers, that can receive care in a family day-care home1. Some states and territories may also offer certification or registration to help ensure some basic health and safety standards in certain home-based child care programs1. To learn more about how your state or territory regulates family day-care homes, you can visit the child care consumer education website and child care resource and referral agency for your state or territory1. References:

• Family Child Care Homes | Childcare.gov

Probabilistic fire models are categorized into network, statistical, simulation, and behavioral models. Network models use graph theory to represent the fire spread and the fire protection system in a building. Statistical models use historical data and probability distributions to estimate the likelihood and consequences of fire scenarios. Simulation models use mathematical equations and numerical methods to describe the physical and chemical processes of fire and its effects on the environment and the occupants. Behavioral models use psychological and sociological theories to predict the human response and evacuation behavior in case of fire. Network models are not a common category of probabilistic fire models, and they are not mentioned in the sources provided by the user. Therefore, network models are the correct answer.

References:Probabilistic Fire Simulation Assessment Using Simplified Model and Zone Modelling of a Kitchen Fire Scenario;Computer Fire Models for Fire Investigation and Reconstruction;Fire Behavior

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

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

Zebra mussel

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The correct answer is B. Zebra mussel pipe obstructions are largely concentrated around the Great Lakes and Mississippi River areas. Zebra mussels are an invasive species that originated from Eurasia and were introduced to North America in the late 1980s through the ballast water of ships. They have since spread to many freshwater lakes and rivers, especially in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States and Canada. Zebra mussels can attach themselves to hard surfaces, such as pipes, pumps, valves, and filters, and form dense colonies that reduce or block the water flow. This can cause serious problems for industries, utilities, and municipalities that rely on water intake or delivery systems.Zebra mussels can also damage aquatic ecosystems, infrastructure, and recreation by competing with native species, altering water quality, and fouling boats and equipment12345

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.

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

The maximum discharge time permitted for halocarbon clean agent systems is10 seconds. This is the requirement of NFPA 2001, which is the standard for clean agent fire extinguishing systems.NFPA 2001 states that the discharge time for halocarbon agents shall not exceed 10 seconds, unless otherwise permitted by the authority having jurisdiction1. Halocarbon agents are synthetic compounds that contain carbon, fluorine, and sometimes other elements, such as hydrogen, chlorine, or bromine.Examples of halocarbon agents include HFC-227ea, HFC-125, and FK-5-1-122. Halocarbon agents work by absorbing heat and interrupting the chemical chain reaction of the fire.They are electrically nonconductive and leave no residue upon evaporation3.Halocarbon agents are suitable for protecting Class A, B, and C fires involving electrical equipment, flammable liquids, and ordinary combustibles4. The discharge time is the time required to release the agent from the storage containers to the protected enclosure.A short discharge time is important to achieve the design concentration of the agent before the fire grows or spreads5.References:

• NFPA 2001: Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
• Clean Agent System Basics | NFPA
• Fire Fighting Foams - Chemguard
• Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems | Fike
• Category | Rotarex Firetec

According to the web search results, the goals of the first edition of NFPA 13D were to provide sufficient time for safe egress or rescue, economic viability, and limit damage to the dwelling. The first edition of NFPA 13D was published in 1975 and was based on the concept of a “life safety” sprinkler system that was intended to protect the occupants of one- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes from fire.The first edition of NFPA 13D stated that the system was not designed to protect the property or contents from fire damage, but rather to provide a tenable environment for escape or rescue1.The first edition of NFPA 13D also recognized the need for economic viability of the system, and therefore allowed for reduced water supply and piping requirements compared to other sprinkler standards2.The first edition of NFPA 13D did not explicitly state the goal of limiting damage to the dwelling, but it implied that the system would have some beneficial effect on the fire spread and severity by stating that the system was designed to prevent flashover in the room of fire origin1.References:

• NFPA 13D: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, 1975 Edition, Section 1-11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Section 8.2.1.22

Spontaneous combustion is the exception to the requirement of a combustible material, an oxidizing agent, and an ignition source for combustion to take place. Spontaneous combustion is a phenomenon in which a material can ignite without any external heat or flame, due to a chemical reaction within the material that generates enough heat to reach the ignition temperature. Spontaneous combustion can occur in certain materials that are prone to self-heating, such as oily rags, hay, coal, and compost. Spontaneous combustion is a type of smoldering combustion, which is a slow, low-temperature, flameless form of combustion.References:

• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 2, Section 2.2.1.11
• NFPA 921: Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations, 2021 Edition, Section 4.3.12

Fire alarm visible appliance source intensity is measured in candela, which is the unit of luminous intensity in a given direction. Candela is defined as the amount of light emitted by a single candle in a specific direction. The intensity of a strobe light depends on the candela rating, the flash rate, and the flash duration. The higher the candela rating, the brighter the light. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have established minimum and maximum candela ratings for fire alarm visible appliances in different locations and applications.References:Strobe Light Requirements: Proper location of visible notification …;Handbook of Visual Notification Appliances for Fire Alarm Applications;Audible Visible Appliance Reference Guide - Fire - studylib.net

Potassium bicarbonate is a dry chemical agent that is considered to be twice as effective as sodium bicarbonate in fire suppression, especially for Class B fires involving flammable liquids and gases. This is because potassium bicarbonate has a higher melting point and a lower decomposition temperature than sodium bicarbonate, which allows it to form a more stable and insulating layer on the burning surface.Potassium bicarbonate also has a lower pH and a higher specific gravity than sodium bicarbonate, which enhances its penetration and dispersion abilities123.References:Dry Chemical Agents - Purple-K Powder is Purple - Chemguard;Evaluation of Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishing Standards - NFPA;Potassium bicarbonate - Wikipedia.