Fire-Inspector-II Sample Questions Answers

In organic coating processes where Class I liquids are exposed to air, fire codes require Class I, Division I electrical installations in hazardous locations to prevent ignition of flammable vapors.

The "immediate vicinity" around pumps or equipment where vapors may accumulate extends 10 feet horizontally from the vapor liberation point in all directions.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1503.2.1 (Electrical Installations in Organic Coating Processes)

IFC 1503.2.1 requires that electrical components must be rated for Class I, Division I within 10 feet of vapor sources.

This prevents ignition hazards in locations with flammable vapors.

2. NFPA 33 – Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials (2021 Edition) – Section 6.5.2

NFPA 33, Section 6.5.2 states that a 10-foot horizontal zone is considered hazardous and requires Class I, Division I electrical installation.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 5 feet is too short and does not provide sufficient protection from vapor migration.

Option B (Correct): 10 feet is the correct required distance per IFC 1503.2.1 and NFPA 33.

Option C (Incorrect): 20 feet is beyond the required hazardous zone.

Option D (Incorrect): 50 feet is excessive and not required by code.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: B. 10.

The storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) in containers by dealers awaiting resale is regulated by the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC), Section 6109 – Storage of Portable LP-Gas Containers.

IFC 6109.11 – Storage Within Buildings Not Accessible to the Public:

"Storage of LP-gas containers in buildings that are not accessible to the public shall be limited to a maximum aggregate quantity of 2,000 pounds water capacity at one location."

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. 735 lb. – Too low; the maximum allowed is 2,000 lb.

B. 1,000 lb. – Incorrect; IFC allows up to 2,000 lb.

D. 2,500 lb. – Exceeds the 2,000 lb. maximum permitted storage quantity.

✅ Correct Answer: C. 2,000 lb.

Refrigeration systems and units are regulated under IFC 2021, Section 605 – Refrigeration Equipment, and the requirement for emergency signs, charts, and labels is tied to the NFPA 704 Hazardous Materials Identification System.

IFC 2021, Section 605.12.3 – Signage for Refrigeration Systems:

States that approved emergency signs, charts, and labels must be provided when the refrigerant quantity exceeds 220 pounds for Group A1 refrigerants.

Definition of Group A1 Refrigerants (Low Toxicity, Low Flammability):

Examples include R-134a, R-410A, and R-22, which are commonly used in commercial and industrial HVAC systems.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. 30 lb. – Too low; labeling requirements do not apply at this threshold.

B. 100 lb. – Incorrect; the IFC requirement specifies 220 lb.

C. 200 lb. – Close, but still below the 220 lb. threshold.

In Group I occupancies (such as hospitals, nursing homes, and correctional facilities), keys necessary for unlocking exit doors must be individually identifiable by both sight and touch. This ensures quick identification of keys in an emergency, especially for staff members assisting occupants with limited mobility.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1010.1.9.9 (Identifiable Keys for Exit Doors in Group I Occupancies)

IFC 1010.1.9.9 specifically states that in Group I occupancies, all keys used to unlock exit doors must be uniquely identifiable by both sight and touch.

This helps staff quickly locate and use the correct key in an emergency evacuation.

2. NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code (2021 Edition) – Section 18.2.2.2.6 (Key Identification in Institutional Occupancies)

NFPA 101 mandates that keys in healthcare and correctional facilities (Group I) must be distinguishable by touch and sight for emergency use.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): Group A occupancies (Assembly) do not have this requirement.

Option B (Incorrect): Group E occupancies (Educational) do not have this specific key-identification mandate.

Option C (Correct): Group I occupancies (Institutional) require individually identifiable keys per IFC 1010.1.9.9.

Option D (Incorrect): Group R occupancies (Residential, such as apartments and hotels) do not have this specific requirement.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. Group I occupancies.

Fire flow for residential buildings is determined based on IFC Appendix B, Table B105.1(1) – Required Fire Flow for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, Group R-3, and R-4 Buildings.

For a 3,700 sq. ft. two-family dwelling of Type VB construction:

Per Table B105.1(1), the baseline fire flow is 1,750 gpm.

If an NFPA 13D-compliant automatic sprinkler system is installed, the fire flow is reduced by 50%.

1,750 gpm × 0.50 = 875 gpm, but the minimum allowed for a sprinklered dwelling is 1,000 gpm.

✅ Correct Answer: B. 1,000 gpm

1. Standpipe Requirements in Construction

According to International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 3313.1, a temporary standpipe must be installed when construction progresses above 75 feet from the lowest level of fire department access.

This ensures firefighters have adequate water supply access during high-rise construction.

2. Why the 75-Foot Requirement?

Buildings exceeding 75 feet are classified as high-rise structures, where fire department hose streams may not reach upper levels efficiently.

A standpipe system provides a reliable water source for fire suppression during construction, reducing fire risk.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (30 feet) – Incorrect, as standpipes are not required at this height under IFC regulations.

Option B (40 feet) – Incorrect, as this is below the high-rise threshold and does not require standpipes yet.

Option C (55 feet) – Incorrect, as IFC specifically mandates standpipes at 75 feet, not 55 feet.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 3313.1 (Temporary Standpipe Requirements for Construction)

NFPA 14: Standard for the Installation of Standpipes and Hose Systems

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: D. 75 feet. ✅

 Reference to Liquid-Level Limit Control Requirements for Atmospheric Tanks:

According to The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 5704.2.7.5, atmospheric tanks containing hazardous materials must be equipped with a liquid-level limit control if their capacity exceeds 500 gallons.

This requirement ensures that overfilling is prevented, reducing the risk of hazardous spills, leaks, and fire hazards.

 Purpose of Liquid-Level Limit Controls:

These controls automatically shut off or alert operators when the liquid level reaches a predetermined limit.

They prevent tank overfill and reduce the risk of hazardous material release, which can cause fires, explosions, or environmental contamination.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 55 gallons → Incorrect

55-gallon drums are not subject to the same overfill protection requirements as large atmospheric tanks.

B. 100 gallons → Incorrect

Too low based on IFC 5704.2.7.5, which sets the requirement at 500 gallons.

C. 250 gallons → Incorrect

Some local regulations may require monitoring for tanks of this size, but IFC specifies 500 gallons as the mandatory threshold.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is D (500 gallons) based on IFC 5704.2.7.5, ensuring proper overfill protection for atmospheric tanks containing hazardous materials.

Pressure tests for organic coating process piping are required to ensure system integrity and prevent leaks, which could lead to fire or explosion hazards. The minimum required duration for these pressure tests is 1 hour.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1504.6.3 (Pressure Testing for Organic Coating Process Piping)

IFC 1504.6.3 mandates that all process piping associated with organic coating operations must undergo a pressure test for at least 1 hour. This ensures that the pipes can handle operational pressures without failure.

2. NFPA 33 – Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials (2021 Edition)

NFPA 33, Section 14.2.6 confirms that process piping must be pressure-tested for no less than 1 hour to verify its safety and reliability.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 30 minutes is insufficient for proper pressure testing.

Option B (Incorrect): 45 minutes is still below the 1-hour minimum requirement.

Option C (Correct): 1 hour is the correct minimum test duration as required by IFC 1504.6.3 and NFPA 33.

Option D (Incorrect): 2 hours is longer than required, but the minimum requirement is 1 hour.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. 1 hour.

Minimum Working Space Width for Electrical Equipment Panels

According to National Electrical Code (NEC) 110.26(A)(2) and International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 604.3, the minimum working space width for electrical equipment must be at least the width of the equipment or 30 inches, whichever is greater.

Since the equipment panel in the question is 66 inches wide, the required working space width must be at least 66 inches.

2. Why 66 Inches is the Correct Answer

The minimum clearance width must be equal to the width of the electrical equipment if the panel itself is wider than 30 inches.

This ensures safe maintenance and emergency access to electrical components.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (30 inches) – Incorrect, because the equipment is wider than 30 inches, requiring a larger clearance.

Option B (36 inches) – Incorrect, as this is not the requirement for a 66-inch-wide panel.

Option D (78 inches) – Incorrect, as the clearance does not need to exceed the width of the panel.

Reference Sources:

National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 – Section 110.26(A)(2) (Working Space Width Requirements)

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 604.3 (Electrical Equipment Clearance Requirements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

High-Pile Combustible Storage Permit Requirements

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 105.6.23, a permit is required for the storage of high-pile combustible stock when the storage area exceeds 2,500 square feet.

2. Definition of High-Pile Storage

High-pile storage is defined as storage of combustible materials on racks or piles exceeding 12 feet in height (or 6 feet for highly combustible materials, such as rubber and plastics).

IFC Table 3206.2 establishes fire protection requirements based on storage height, area, and commodity class.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (225 sq. ft.) – Incorrect, as this is far below the 2,500 sq. ft. permit threshold.

Option B (500 sq. ft.) – Incorrect, as the fire code does not require a permit at this level.

Option C (1,000 sq. ft.) – Incorrect, as the IFC specifies 2,500 sq. ft. as the threshold for requiring a permit.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 105.6.23 (High-Pile Combustible Storage Permit Requirements)

IFC Chapter 32 (High-Piled Storage Regulations)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: D. 2,500. ✅

Retention of Fire Code-Related Records

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 104.6, records related to code enforcement decisions, including modifications or substitutions (such as a sprinkler system replacing a second exit), must be retained for as long as the building and the condition exist.

This ensures that future inspections, property owners, and authorities can verify past decisions and compliance history.

2. Why the Records Must Be Retained Permanently

Modifications that impact life safety (such as exit requirements) must remain on record for the lifetime of the building to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.

If the condition (sprinkler substitution for an exit) still exists, any future inspector or building official must be able to verify the original approval and rationale.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (Five years) – Incorrect, as fire code modifications must remain on record permanently if they affect egress or fire protection systems.

Option B (Three years) – Incorrect, as this timeframe applies to temporary inspection reports, not major code modifications.

Option C (Until the building is sold) – Incorrect, as ownership changes do not affect the need for record retention on fire safety decisions.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 104.6 (Fire Code Record Retention Requirements)

NFPA 1: Fire Code (Retention of Code-Related Decisions)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: D. For as long as the building and the condition exist. ✅

Hazardous occupancies involved in organic coatings manufacturing are classified as Group H-2 or H-3 occupancies under the 2021 IFC. These facilities involve highly flammable materials, requiring both manual and automatic fire alarm systems for safety.

IFC 2021, Section 415.7 – Organic Coatings Manufacturing:

Requires that automatic fire alarm and manual fire alarm systems be installed due to the high risk of fire and explosion in these facilities.

IFC 907.2.4 – Fire Alarm Systems for Group H Occupancies:

Specifies that Group H (high-hazard) occupancies must have both manual and automatic fire alarm systems.

The automatic fire alarm system ensures immediate detection, while the manual system allows for human activation in case of emergencies.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. Do not require a fire alarm system.

Incorrect, as all high-hazard occupancies require fire alarm systems.

B. Require only a manual fire alarm system.

Incorrect, as automatic detection is also required due to high fire risk.

C. Require only an automatic fire alarm system.

Incorrect, as manual activation is necessary for early intervention.

✅ Correct Answer: D. Require both manual and automatic fire alarm systems.

LP-Gas Storage Limits for Dealers in Non-Public Buildings

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 6109.9, the maximum allowable quantity of LP-gas in containers stored by a dealer awaiting resale in a building that is not open to the public is 2,000 pounds of water capacity.

This limit is intended to reduce fire and explosion hazards in enclosed spaces while allowing reasonable storage for commercial purposes.

2. Understanding Water Capacity vs. Propane Weight

The water capacity of an LP-gas cylinder refers to the total weight of water the container can hold, not the actual propane content.

The propane content is typically about 42% of the water capacity (i.e., 2,000 lbs. of water capacity is approximately 840 lbs. of propane).

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (735 lbs.) – Incorrect, as IFC allows a significantly higher storage limit for dealers in non-public buildings.

Option B (1,000 lbs.) – Incorrect, as the actual limit per IFC 6109.9 is 2,000 lbs.

Option D (2,500 lbs.) – Incorrect, as this exceeds the IFC's maximum allowable storage limit.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 6109.9 (LP-Gas Storage Limits in Buildings Not Open to the Public)

NFPA 58: Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code (LP-Gas Storage and Handling Guidelines)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Exit Announcements in Motion Picture Theaters

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 403.9.1.2, motion picture theaters must provide an audible announcement informing occupants of exit locations no more than 5 minutes prior to the start of each program.

This requirement ensures that audience members are aware of exit locations in case of an emergency, enhancing fire safety in crowded venues.

2. Verification of Other Options

Option B (10 minutes) – Exceeds the IFC maximum timeframe. Incorrect.

Option C (20 minutes) – Not specified in the IFC as a valid timeframe. Incorrect.

Option D (30 minutes) – Far beyond the required timeframe and would likely be ineffective. Incorrect.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 403.9.1.2 (Theater Exit Announcements)

NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (Theater Occupancy Requirements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

1.

Exit Sign Letter Height Requirement

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 1013.5, and the International Building Code (IBC) 2021, Section 1013.5, exit sign letters must be at least 6 inches in height. However, the minimum height requirement for the wording within the sign (e.g., "EXIT") is specifically 4 inches.

The stroke width of these letters must be at least 0.5 inches to ensure visibility.

2. Verification of Other Options

Option A (three inches) – Below the minimum height requirement. Incorrect.

Option C (five inches) – Exceeds the minimum standard but is not the correct minimum required size. Incorrect.

Option D (six inches) – This applies to the total EXIT sign height, but the actual letter requirement is 4 inches. Incorrect.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 1013.5

International Building Code (IBC) 2021 – Section 1013.5

NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (Exit Sign Requirements)

To determine the occupant load of a 50,000 gross square foot airport terminal concourse, we use the occupant load factor from 2021 IBC Table 1004.5.

Step 1: Identify the Occupant Load Factor for an Airport Concourse

According to IBC Table 1004.5, the occupant load factor for an airport terminal concourse is 20 sq. ft. per person (gross).

Step 2: Calculate the Occupant Load

50,00020=2,500 occupants\frac{50,000}{20} = 2,500 \text{ occupants}2050,000​=2,500 occupants

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Building Code (IBC) – Table 1004.5 (Occupant Load Factor for Airport Concourses)

20 sq. ft. per person is assigned for airport concourses.

2. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1004.1.2 (Occupant Load Determination)

Gross area calculations must follow the correct occupant load factor per IBC Table 1004.5.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 200 is too low based on proper calculations.

Option B (Incorrect): 500 is also too low.

Option C (Incorrect): 1,000 is below the required calculation.

Option D (Correct): 2,500 is the correct calculation based on IBC Table 1004.5.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: D. 2,500.

Understanding Type III Construction

According to the International Building Code (IBC) 2021, Section 602.3, Type III construction is a mix of noncombustible and combustible materials.

Exterior walls must be noncombustible or fire-retardant-treated wood, while interior structural elements (such as floors, roofs, and partitions) can be wood.

2. Common Uses of Type III Construction

Churches, schools, apartment buildings, and mercantile (retail) structures are often built using Type III construction because it balances fire resistance with cost-effectiveness.

Many low-rise residential and commercial buildings use this type due to its ability to support multiple stories while maintaining some fire protection.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (Type I) – Incorrect, as Type I construction is entirely noncombustible (steel/concrete) and used for high-rises, not typical for churches, schools, or apartments.

Option B (Type II) – Incorrect, as Type II construction is fully noncombustible but has lower fire resistance than Type I, mainly used for commercial buildings, warehouses, and low-rise offices.

Option D (Type IV) – Incorrect, as Type IV (heavy timber) is rarely used for schools and apartments, though some older churches may use it.

Reference Sources:

International Building Code (IBC) 2021 – Section 602.3 (Type III Construction Definition)

NFPA 220: Standard on Types of Building Construction

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. Type III. ✅

Inspection checklists are valuable tools for fire inspectors, ensuring that key inspection points are consistently reviewed. However, one of their limitations is that they may not cover every potential code violation. This is due to the complexity and variability of fire codes, as well as the uniqueness of each inspection scenario.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 IFC (International Fire Code) & ICC Fire Inspection Manual

The ICC Fire Inspection Manual (Chapter 4 – Fire Inspection Procedures) emphasizes that while checklists help streamline inspections, they should not be the sole reference. Inspectors must be prepared to identify violations beyond those listed.

2. NFPA 1031 – Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner

NFPA 1031 (Chapter 4: Fire Inspector I and II Roles & Responsibilities) states that inspectors must apply critical thinking and code knowledge rather than rely solely on pre-prepared lists.

3. 2021 Fire Inspector II Study Guide – ICC

This guide highlights that checklists are helpful but should be supplemented with a thorough knowledge of fire codes to ensure comprehensive inspections.

Detailed Explanation:

Option A (Incorrect): The fact that checklists become a public record is generally not a "problem" but rather a standard practice for transparency and accountability.

Option B (Incorrect): While checklists may take time to complete, this is a minor administrative issue rather than a fundamental problem with their use.

Option C (Correct): The main issue is that no checklist can comprehensively cover all possible violations, requiring inspectors to use judgment and knowledge.

Option D (Incorrect): Although legal appeals may occur, checklists themselves do not typically serve as the direct basis for such challenges.

Thus, the verified and correct answer is: C. They may not address all of the code violations which may be encountered.

IFC Section 108 (Board of Appeals) outlines the board’s role: it hears appeals on fire code official decisions (Section 108.1), can interpret the code (B), approve alternatives (C) per Section 104.9, and establish procedural rules (D) per Section 108.2. However, the board cannot “waive” code requirements outright (A)—it can only grant variances or approve alternatives that still meet the code’s intent, not eliminate requirements entirely. Waiving implies nullification, which exceeds the board’s authority; that power rests with the fire code official or legislative amendments. Thus, A is the exception.

IFC Section 2303.7 classifies ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastics as Group A (high-hazard) due to their flammability and smoke production, per NFPA 13. Options B and C are less hazardous, D is a commodity class, not a plastic group. Thus, A is correct.

Foamed plastics or materials containing foamed plastics used for stage scenery must meet strict fire performance requirements to prevent rapid flame spread and fire hazards in assembly occupancies.

The correct fire test standard for these materials is UL 1975 – Standard for Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purposes.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 807.4.2 (Foamed Plastics for Stage Scenery)

IFC 807.4.2 states that foamed plastics used in scenery must be tested and approved per UL 1975 to ensure fire safety.

2. UL 1975 – Standard for Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purposes

This standard evaluates the flammability and smoke production of foamed plastics used in decorative applications, including stage scenery.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Correct): UL 1975 is the required test standard for foamed plastics used in stage scenery, ensuring compliance with IFC 807.4.2.

Option B (Incorrect): NFPA 11A deals with foam-water fire suppression systems, not foamed plastics for decorative use.

Option C (Incorrect): CPSC 16CFR relates to consumer product safety regulations but does not address fire safety for foamed plastics on stage scenery.

Option D (Incorrect): ASTM D 1784 is a test for rigid PVC plastics and does not apply to foamed plastics used for stage scenery.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: A. UL 1975.

IFC Section 903.3.5 and Appendix B (Fire-Flow Requirements) allow a reduction in fire flow when sprinklers are installed. For a Type II-B building (noncombustible, unprotected), the base fire flow (7,000 gpm) reflects a large, unsprinklered structure (e.g., per Table B105.1(2)). With full sprinkler protection, IFC B105.2 permits a reduction to as low as 25% of the original flow or the sprinkler demand (whichever is greater), typically 1,500 gpm for commercial buildings per NFPA 13 standards, assuming adequate water supply. Options B, C, and D exceed this minimum without justification. Thus, A is correct.

 Reference to Automatic Sprinkler Requirements:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 903.2.11.1 and NFPA 13 (Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems) regulate when sprinkler systems are required based on ventilation and fire spread potential.

A building with only one exterior wall providing openings creates a fire trap, increasing the need for automatic sprinklers.

 Determining the Required Distance:

IFC 903.2.11.1 states that when the wall opposite the provided openings is more than 100 feet away, an automatic sprinkler system must be installed to ensure proper fire suppression.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 50 ft. → Incorrect

Sprinklers are not necessarily required at this distance because natural ventilation is still effective.

B. 75 ft. → Incorrect

This distance still allows some natural ventilation, making sprinklers optional rather than mandatory.

D. 150 ft. → Incorrect

Sprinklers are required once the distance exceeds 100 feet, so waiting until 150 feet would not meet code requirements.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is C (100 feet) based on IFC 903.2.11.1 and NFPA 13, ensuring fire safety in office buildings with limited exterior openings.