CFPS Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) Question and Answers

The cone calorimeter is an ignition test method that exposes the specimen to a known heat flux from a tungsten-quartz heater. The cone calorimeter measures the heat release rate, mass loss rate, smoke production, and other parameters of the specimen during the test. The cone calorimeter is widely used to evaluate the flammability and fire behavior of materials and products.References:

• NFPA 557: Standard for Determination of Fire Loads for Use in Structural Fire Protection Design, 2017 Edition, Section 5.3.2.11
• NFPA 556: Guide on Methods for Evaluating Fire Hazard to Occupants of Passenger Road Vehicles, 2019 Edition, Section 4.3.22
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2.23

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

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.

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

Fire pump

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The correct answer is B.Safety is one of the criteria for selecting the power source for driving fire pumps, according to NFPA 20, Chapter 9.1.1.11. Reliability, adequacy, and economy are the other criteria mentioned in the same chapter. Efficiency, adaptability, and ecology are not explicitly stated as criteria in NFPA 20, although they may be considered as secondary factors in some cases.

1:Pump Installation: Everything About Electric and Diesel Driven Fire …

OSHA regulation 1910.110 addresses storage and handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This regulation covers the general requirements for the design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, and maintenance of LPG systems, including containers, piping, valves, fittings, regulators, burners, and appliances. The regulation also specifies the safety precautions and procedures for the prevention of fire and explosion hazards involving LPG. The regulation applies to all employers who store, handle, or use LPG in their workplaces.References:

• OSHA: 1910.110 - Storage and handling of liquefied petroleum gases1
• Nebula Safety: Storage & Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPGs)2

The types of overspray collectors associated with spray booths can be categorized into venturi scrubbers, waterfall scrubbers, dry filter, and cartridge filter. Venturi scrubbers use a high-velocity water spray to capture the overspray particles in a turbulent zone. Waterfall scrubbers use a curtain of water flowing over a perforated plate to wash down the overspray. Dry filter collectors use a series of filters, such as paper, fiberglass, or synthetic media, to trap the overspray. Cartridge filter collectors use pleated cartridges with high surface area and efficiency to capture the overspray. These collectors also have a self-cleaning mechanism that uses compressed air to dislodge the overspray from the cartridges.

References:Spray Booth Filters: Types and Selection;Spray Booths and Paint Finishing Operations;Spray Booth Filters: Types and Selection;Spray Booth Filters: Types and Selection;Spray Booth Filters: Types and Selection

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

Class A roof coverings are the most effective in preventing the spread of fires from flying brands. Flying brands are burning embers or pieces of combustible material that are carried by the wind and can ignite other combustible materials or structures. Class A roof coverings are tested to withstand severe fire exposure from simulated fire sources, such as large burning brands, and do not produce flying brands themselves. Class A roof coverings include materials such as asphalt shingles, metal sheets, clay or concrete tiles, slate, and some types of synthetic membranes12. References:

• Class A, B, and C Roof Ratings - UL
• Fire-Resistant Roofs - Fire Safe Marin

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

20 years.

According to NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2020 edition, fast response sprinklers are those that have a response time index (RTI) of 50 (m·s)^(1/2) or less.These sprinklers are designed to activate faster than standard response sprinklers in the event of a fire, and they are typically used in light hazard, ordinary hazard, and residential occupancies1

NFPA 25 requires initial testing of representative samples of fast response sprinklers after 20 years from the date of manufacture, and subsequent testing every 10 years thereafter. The testing involves removing a minimum of four sprinklers or 1% of the total number of sprinklers per individual sprinkler sample, whichever is greater, and sending them to a recognized testing laboratory. The laboratory will perform a plunge test, which measures the time it takes for the sprinkler to operate when exposed to a specified air temperature.The test results will indicate whether the sprinklers meet the acceptance criteria or need to be replaced123

References:

• NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems1
• Sprinkler System Inspections, Testing, and Maintenance Frequencies Explained | NFPA4
• Sprinkler Testing on Quick Response Sprinklers: What You Need to Know2
• NFPA 25 ITM Quick Reference Guide - hillgrp.com3

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 two classes of fire models arephysical and mathematical. Physical fire models are scaled-down representations of real fire scenarios, using laboratory experiments and measurements to study the fire behavior and effects.Physical fire models can be used to test hypotheses, validate mathematical models, and provide empirical data for fire analysis1. Mathematical fire models are numerical or analytical solutions of the equations that govern the fire phenomena, such as heat transfer, fluid dynamics, combustion, and chemical kinetics.Mathematical fire models can be used to simulate fire scenarios, predict fire outcomes, and optimize fire protection systems2. There are two major categories of mathematical fire models: zone models and field models. Zone models divide the fire compartment into two or more homogeneous zones, such as upper and lower layers, and apply mass and energy conservation equations to each zone.Zone models are relatively simple, fast, and easy to use, but they have limitations in accuracy and applicability3. Field models solve the partial differential equations that describe the fire-driven fluid flow and heat transfer in three dimensions, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques.Field models are more detailed, realistic, and flexible, but they require more computational resources and expertise4.References:

• Fire modelling with Computational Fluid Dynamics - BRE Group
• Fire modeling programs | NIST
• interFIRE, A site dedicated to improving fire investigation worldwide.
• Computer Fire Models for Fire Investigation and Reconstruction

According to the web search results, 79% of fire departments surveyed participate in the delivery of emergency medical services (EMS).This is based on the NFPA report “US Fire Department Profile 2020”1, which states that nationwide, 37% of fire departments provided no EMS, 46% provided basic life support (BLS), and 17% provided advanced life support (ALS). Therefore, the percentage of fire departments that provided either BLS or ALS is 46% + 17% = 63%. However, this does not include fire departments that provided EMS through a third-party contract or agreement.According to the NFPA fireservice survey from 2018–20202, 16% of fire departments reported having such an arrangement. Therefore, the percentage of fire departments that participated in the delivery of EMS in some form is 63% + 16% = 79%.References:

• NFPA report - U.S.fire department profile3
• US Fire Department Profile 2020 Supporting Tables2

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

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), the most common type of fabric used on upholstered furniture is cellulosic. Cellulosic fabrics are made from natural fibers derived from plants, such as cotton, linen, rayon, and hemp. Cellulosic fabrics account for about 51% of the total fabric weight used on upholstered furniture in the United States1. Cellulosic fabrics are popular because they are soft, comfortable, breathable, and versatile. However, they are also highly flammable and can contribute to the spread of fire if ignited2. Therefore, the CPSC has established a flammability standard for upholstered furniture that requires cellulosic fabrics to pass a smolder resistance test3. References:

• Upholstered Furniture Business Education | CPSC.gov
• Fire Fighting Foams - Chemguard
• Standard for the Flammability of Residential Upholstered Furniture

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.

Fire alarm systems audible appliances ratings are usually stated as a sound pressure level (SPL) at 10 ft (3.05 m) from the appliance. The SPL is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates the loudness of the sound produced by the appliance. The SPL at 10 ft (3.05 m) is used as a standard reference point for comparing different audible appliances and for designing fire alarm systems to meet the required audibility levels.References:

• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2019 Edition, Section 18.4.3.11
• Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 7, Section 7.8.2.12

According to NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 Edition, Article 230.71(A), each service shall have only one disconnecting means unless the requirements of 230.71(B) are met, which provide four specific service configurations. In each configuration, there shall be not more than six switches or sets of circuit breakers, or a combination of not more than six switches and sets of circuit breakers, per service grouped in any one location. Therefore, the maximum number of additional switches or circuit breakers allowed for a separate service is six.References:

• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 Edition, Article 230.71(A) and (B)12
• ElectricalLicenseRenewal.com, 230.71 Maximum Number of Disconnects3

Dipping and coating processes using flammable or combustible liquids pose a significant fire and explosion hazard and should be isolated from other operations, materials, or occupancies by location, fire walls, or operational procedures. Location refers to the physical separation of the process from other areas by distance or barriers. Fire walls are fire-resistance-rated assemblies that prevent the spread of fire from one side to the other. Operational procedures are rules or guidelines that regulate the conduct of the process and its personnel, such as limiting the amount of flammable or combustible liquids in use, controlling ignition sources, and providing adequate ventilation.

References: NFPA 34: Standard for Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes Using Flammable or Combustible Liquids, 2021 Edition, Section 4.21; Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Section 8.3.12.

1:NFPA 34: Standard for Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes Using Flammable or Combustible Liquids2:Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8

According to the CDC, exposure to hydrogen fluoride at concentrations of less than 50 ppm for two minutes may cause mild eye and upper respiratory tract irritation. The severity of the effects depends on the concentration, duration, and route of exposure, as well as the individual’s susceptibility. Higher concentrations or longer exposures can cause more serious health effects, such as pulmonary edema, skin burns, or systemic toxicity.References:CDC | Facts About Hydrogen Fluoride (Hydrofluoric Acid); [Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) | Medical Management Guidelines | Toxic Substance Portal | ATSDR]2; [Hydrogen Fluoride and Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) - GOV.UK]3.

The correct answer is A. Type I construction consists of structural members of approved noncombustible or limited combustible materials with specified fire resistance ratings for exterior bearing walls of 3 or 4 hours. This is the highest level of fire resistance among the five types of construction defined by NFPA 220: Standard for Types of Building Construction.Type I construction is typically used for high-rise buildings made of concrete and protected steel12