Building Codes - Chapter 7: Fire Protection Systems

Spring 2026 - Baylor University - ID2350

Only multiple-station smoke detectors are required by the codes to be tied into the building's power source, but single-station smoke detectors are not. 

False

The decision to use an automatic sprinkler system, fire detection system, or smoke detection system is mostly based on budgetary concerns.

False

The codes do not allow the connection of fire and smoke alarm systems to the building's security system. 

False

When a fire occurs, a detection system only detects the presence of smoke.

False

An alarm can be activated both manually and automatically. 

True

Manual fire alarms must typically by placed within 5 feet from the latch side of an exit door.

True

Fire extinguishers must be in a glass case mounted on the wall. 

False

A detection system is required in all new buildings unless specifically exempted.

True

If an active fire protection is used, it must be installed throughout the building.

False

Fire detection systems recognized in the codes must be automatic.

False

A manual fire alarm will set off an alarm to notify the occupants of a problem; but it will not activate the extinguishing system.

False

When provided, manual fire alarms must be available to all occupants.

False

Carbon monoxide detectors are only required in Residential occupancies with dwelling and sleeping units.

False

If a fire alarm is activated on one floor, it will signal on all floors of the building to notify occupants of the fire.

False

Automatic sprinkler systems are required in one- and two-family homes by the codes.

True

Smoke detectors are required in many commercial occupancies; smoke alarms are more common in residential occupancies.

True

A heat detector in a fire protection system activates only if there is a rise in temperature in a certain area to indicate a fire.

False

Most alarms must be audible and ______.

visual

When required in a Class A space, the codes typically require that no occupant can be more than how many feet from a fire extinguisher?

75 feet

Portable Fire Extinguishers

NFPA 10

National Fire Alarm Code and Signaling Code

NFPA 72

National Electric Code

NFPA 70

Installation of a Sprinkler System

NFPA 13

Emergency and Standby Power Systems

NFPA 10

Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols

NFPA 110

Carbon Dioxide and Extinguishing Systems

NFPA 12

What type of system directs occupants out of the building during an emergency by verbal command?

Both

When specifying a visual alarm, which of the following are regulated by the codes and the ADA standard?

all answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a detection system?

Firestops

Which of the following statements about detection systems is correct?

Smoke detectors are especially effective in detecting smoldering fires.

Which of the following is NOT considered an alarm system?

Manual Fire Alarm

Which of the following statements about an EVACS is NOT correct?

It is required in most occupancy classifications

Which class of standpipe is designed for use by building occupants?

Both

Which of the following is NOT typically used by the codes to determine if a standpipe is required in a building?

The number of stairwells in the building

Which of the following would affect the need for a sprinkler system?

all answers

Which type of sprinkler system would typically be used where the system would be exposed to freezing temperatures?

Dry Pipe

Which of the following is NOT typically allowed by the codes because a sprinkler system is provided?

A reclassified occupancy type

Which of the following is NOT a type of sprinkler head?

Pendant

How much clearance is typically required below the head or deflector of a sprinkler?

18”

Which of the following statements about fire-related codes is NOT correct?

all are correct

Which of the following specialty types of rooms or areas is the most likely to use a non-water-based fire extinguishing system?

Restaurant Kitchen

Which of the following sprinkler head orientations are available recessed and surfaced mounted?

Pendant and sidewall

The three components of an active fire protection system include:

detection systems, alarm systems, extinguishing systems

Although the most typical sign of fire is smoke, detection systems can be initiated by such as heat, gases related by combustion, changes in temperature, as well. These are referred to as ______.

fire signals

More people are killed by the exposure to ______ or ______ than exposure to fire.

smoke, toxic gases

The most common active fire protection initiating device is the ______.

Smoke Detector

A smoke ______ is essentially a smoke detector that both detects smoke and sets off an integral alarm as a self-contained device.

alarm

An alarm device that detects the fire and warns the occupants in the immediate area is referred to as a ______ alarm. An alarm device that is interconnected with a set of devices is referred to as a ______.

single station, multiple station

A device that is initiated by the detection of smoke, fire, heat, or a combination or a manual pull station is referred to as a ______.

Fire Alarm

The system which indicates the existence of an emergency and provides information to occupants is called an ______ system.

Emergency Communication

The system that can let people know that there is an emergency other than fire and provide real-time information and instruction as to what to do is referred to as a ______.

Mass Notification System

Fire extinguishers can contain several types of substances to put out a fire. List three basic types:

water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical agents

The type of portable extinguisher that must be specified for a project will depend on the ______ and the anticipated ______.

occupancy, type of fire

Give a typical location for the following types of fire extinguishers

a. Class A fire extinguisher

b. Class B fire extinguisher

c. Class K fire extinguisher

a. general use including office buildings, classrooms, and assembly used

b. workshops, garages, storage areas

c. commercial kitchens