Fire-Inspector-II 67 - Fire Inspector II Exam Questions and Answers

Fire-Resistance Rating for Nonbearing Walls in Type IV Construction

Type IV (Heavy Timber) construction, as defined by the International Building Code (IBC) 2021, Section 602.4, consists of large, solid or laminated wood members.

Interior nonbearing walls and partitions in Type IV construction are not required to have a fire-resistance rating (0 hours) unless they separate different occupancies or are specifically mandated by another code provision.

2. Why Type IV Does Not Require a Rating for Nonbearing Walls

The heavy timber components inherently provide fire resistance due to their large cross-section, which chars on the surface and slows fire penetration.

IBC Table 601 confirms that interior nonbearing walls in Type IV construction do not have a required fire-resistance rating.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option B (1 hour) – Incorrect, as Type IV does not require a 1-hour rating for interior nonbearing walls unless specific conditions apply.

Option C (1-1/2 hours) – Incorrect, as there is no code requirement for this level of rating in Type IV nonbearing walls.

Option D (2 hours) – Incorrect, as Type IV walls are not rated unless separating occupancies.

Reference Sources:

International Building Code (IBC) 2021 – Section 602.4 (Type IV Construction Requirements)

IBC Table 601 (Fire-Resistance Ratings for Building Elements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

For Group I-2 occupancies (such as hospitals, nursing homes, and similar healthcare facilities), horizontal exits are used to improve fire safety by allowing occupants to move to a safer area without using stairs or elevators.

IFC 2021, Section 1026.1 (Horizontal Exits – General Requirements) states that:

Horizontal exits shall not comprise more than one-half (1/2) of the required exits from any floor area in a Group I-2 occupancy.

This ensures that at least 50% of the required exits remain traditional vertical or exterior exits, maintaining a balance between horizontal and traditional egress routes.

✅ Correct Answer: B. 1/2

To determine the maximum occupant load for a bowling center with 25 lanes and 3,500 sq. ft. of additional area, we use the occupant load factor from 2021 IBC Table 1004.5.

Step 1: Calculate the Occupant Load for Bowling Lanes

IBC Table 1004.5 assigns 50 sq. ft. per person for bowling lanes and associated seating areas.

With 25 lanes, assuming 100 sq. ft. per lane (standard industry measurement for lane width and approach area):

25×(10050)=25×2=50 occupants25 \times \left( \frac{100}{50} \right) = 25 \times 2 = 50 \text{ occupants}25×(50100​)=25×2=50 occupants

Step 2: Calculate the Occupant Load for Additional Area

Additional 3,500 sq. ft. area follows a general occupant load factor of 15 sq. ft. per person (assembly without fixed seats):

3,50015=233.3 occupants≈234 (rounded)\frac{3,500}{15} = 233.3 \text{ occupants} \approx 234 \text{ (rounded)}153,500​=233.3 occupants≈234 (rounded)

Final Calculation:

50+184=234 occupants50 + 184 = 234 \text{ occupants}50+184=234 occupants

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

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

Bowling lanes require 50 sq. ft. per person.

Assembly areas without fixed seats use 15 sq. ft. per person.

2. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1004.1.2 (Areas without Fixed Seating)

When calculating occupant load, areas without fixed seating must be divided by the appropriate occupant load factor.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 125 is too low based on correct load factor calculations.

Option B (Correct): 234 is the correct calculation using IBC Table 1004.5.

Option C (Incorrect): 500 is too high based on the available space.

Option D (Incorrect): 625 significantly overestimates the actual occupant load.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: B. 234.

 Reference to Fire-Flow Requirements for Type IIB Buildings:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Appendix B, Table B105.1(2) establishes the minimum fire-flow requirements for buildings based on construction type, size, and the presence of sprinkler systems.

For a 75,000 sq. ft. Type IIB (non-combustible, unprotected) building without sprinklers, the required fire-flow is 5,500 gpm for 4 hours.

 Why Fire-Flow Matters:

Fire-flow ensures that sufficient water is available to control and extinguish fires in large buildings.

Type IIB buildings lack built-in fire resistance enhancements, making adequate fire-flow crucial.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 3,000 gpm for 3 hours → Incorrect

Too low for a building of this size and construction type.

B. 4,000 gpm for 4 hours → Incorrect

Below the required 5,500 gpm per IFC Appendix B.

D. 5,750 gpm for 4 hours → Incorrect

Slightly above the requirement but not the exact minimum mandated by IFC Table B105.1(2).

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is C (5,500 gpm for 4 hours) as per IFC Appendix B, Table B105.1(2), ensuring compliance with fire-flow standards for Type IIB buildings without sprinklers.

Definition of a Control Area

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 202 (Definitions) and Section 5003.8.2 (Control Areas), a control area is a building or portion of a building where specific amounts of hazardous materials can be stored, dispensed, used, or handled without requiring additional fire protection features.

The purpose of a control area is to limit the risk associated with hazardous materials while still allowing their use in limited quantities.

2. Why Hazardous Materials is the Correct Answer

Control areas apply to a wide range of hazardous materials, including flammable, combustible, corrosive, toxic, and oxidizing substances.

The amount of each hazardous material that can be stored in a control area is regulated by IFC Table 5003.1.1(1).

3. Verification of Other Options

Option B (flammable liquids only) – Incorrect, because control areas allow multiple types of hazardous materials, not just flammable liquids.

Option C (combustible liquids only) – Incorrect, as combustible liquids are just one category of hazardous materials.

Option D (corrosive materials only) – Incorrect, since control areas are not limited to corrosive materials but include all types of hazardous materials.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 202 (Definitions of Control Area)

IFC 2021 – Section 5003.8.2 (Control Areas and Hazardous Material Limits)

NFPA 1: Fire Code (Hazardous Materials Storage Regulations)

The maximum travel distance to an exit from within a tent is regulated under the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC), Section 3103.12.2 – Means of Egress (Tents and Membrane Structures).

IFC Section 3103.12.2 – Travel Distance:

"The maximum travel distance to an exit shall not exceed 150 feet (45,720 mm)."

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. 75 ft. – This limit does not apply to tents; the correct limit is 150 ft.

B. 100 ft. – Too restrictive; the IFC allows up to 150 ft.

D. Any distance approved by the chief. – The fire code does not allow unlimited travel distances; 150 feet is the maximum permitted by code.

✅ Correct Answer: C. 150 ft.

For open burning, fire codes typically require a minimum clearance from structures to prevent fire spread. However, when burning is conducted in an approved container, the required clearance distance may be reduced to 15 feet.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 307.4 (Open Burning, Recreational Fires, and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces)

IFC 307.4 states that the minimum clearance for open burning is 50 feet but may be reduced to 15 feet when conducted in an approved container that prevents fire spread.

2. NFPA 1 – Fire Code (2021 Edition) – Section 10.11 (Open Burning and Recreational Fires)

NFPA 1, Section 10.11.5 aligns with the IFC and allows a minimum of 15 feet clearance for contained burning in approved receptacles.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 10 ft. is too close and does not meet the IFC minimum requirement.

Option B (Correct): 15 ft. is the minimum required distance for burning in an approved container according to IFC 307.4.

Option C (Incorrect): 25 ft. is the standard for recreational fires but not for approved containers.

Option D (Incorrect): 50 ft. applies to open burning without a container, not when using an approved container.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: B. 15 ft.

Smoking Restrictions Near LP-Gas Transfer Points

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 3807.2, smoking is not permitted within 25 feet of an LP-gas transfer point while filling operations are in progress.

This prevents ignition hazards, as LP-gas is highly flammable and can ignite from cigarettes, matches, or lighters.

2. Why 25 Feet is the Correct Answer

LP-gas vapors are heavier than air and can travel significant distances before igniting.

The 25-foot clearance requirement is set to prevent accidental ignition due to an undetected vapor leak.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (10 feet) – Incorrect, as this is the requirement for smaller propane cylinder storage areas, not transfer points.

Option B (15 feet) – Incorrect, as IFC mandates a 25-foot minimum clearance.

Option D (50 feet) – Incorrect, as the IFC requirement is specifically 25 feet, not 50.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 3807.2 (Smoking Prohibitions Near LP-Gas Transfer Points)

NFPA 58: Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code (Safe Handling and Transfer Requirements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. 25 feet. ✅

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

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.

 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.

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.

The occupant load for an R-2 building's common patio area must be calculated using an occupant load factor. The correct factor is 15 gross sq. ft. per person.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

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

For outdoor areas (such as patios and terraces), the applicable factor is 15 gross sq. ft. per person.

2. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1004.5 (Outdoor Occupant Loads)

The 15 gross per person requirement is applied to common outdoor gathering areas in residential occupancies (R-2).

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 50 net per person applies to storage areas, not patios.

Option B (Incorrect): 11 gross per person is used for business occupancies (B), not residential patios.

Option C (Correct): 15 gross per person is the correct calculation factor for common outdoor spaces in R-2 buildings.

Option D (Incorrect): The code official does not assign occupant load values arbitrarily—they follow IBC Table 1004.5.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. 15 gross per person.

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 Ventilation Requirements for Flammable Liquids:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 5004.3.7.3, and NFPA 30 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code), Section 18.5.4.1 specify the ventilation requirements for the use, dispensing, and mixing of flammable liquids in open systems.

Continuous mechanical ventilation must be provided at a minimum rate of 2 CFM per square foot of floor area.

 Reason for Ventilation Requirements:

Flammable liquids release vapors that can ignite at low concentrations, creating fire and explosion hazards.

Proper ventilation removes vapors to prevent them from reaching flammable limits in the air.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 1 CFM per sq. ft. → Incorrect

Too low to effectively control flammable vapor accumulation.

C. 3 CFM per sq. ft. → Incorrect

While more ventilation can be beneficial, the minimum required by code is 2 CFM per sq. ft.

D. 4 CFM per sq. ft. → Incorrect

Exceeds the code-mandated minimum requirement, though higher ventilation rates may be required based on specific hazards.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is B (2 CFM per sq. ft.), based on IFC 5004.3.7.3 and NFPA 30 Section 18.5.4.1, ensuring safe handling of flammable liquids in open systems.

 Reference to Flammable Liquids Storage Cabinet Requirements:

According to The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 5704.3.2 and NFPA 30 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code), Section 9.5.3, the maximum amount of Class II and Class III liquids that can be stored in a flammable liquids storage cabinet is 120 gallons.

This limit ensures safe containment, fire protection, and reduced risk of liquid ignition or spillage.

 Understanding Class II and III Liquids:

Class II liquids: Flash point between 100°F and 140°F (e.g., diesel fuel, kerosene).

Class III liquids: Flash point above 140°F (e.g., motor oil, cooking oils).

While these liquids are less volatile than Class I liquids, they still pose a fire risk, requiring proper storage in approved cabinets.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 10 gallons → Incorrect

Too low; IFC and NFPA allow up to 120 gallons in storage cabinets.

B. 60 gallons → Incorrect

This is the maximum for Class I liquids, but Class II and III liquids are allowed up to 120 gallons.

D. 240 gallons → Incorrect

Exceeds the allowable limit per IFC 5704.3.2 and NFPA 30, which set the maximum at 120 gallons per cabinet.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is C (120 gallons) as per IFC 5704.3.2 and NFPA 30, ensuring compliance with flammable liquids storage safety standards.

 Reference to ICC Fire Code and Legal Authority:

The International Fire Code (IFC) and Standard Inspection Procedures establish that fire inspectors must either obtain consent from the occupant or acquire an inspection warrant if entry is denied.

IFC Section 104.3 (Right of Entry) states that inspectors have the authority to enter a building at reasonable times to conduct an inspection, but if entry is refused, a warrant must be obtained.

 Legal and Ethical Considerations:

Fourth Amendment Rights protect against unlawful searches, requiring inspectors to either:

Gain voluntary consent from the occupant, OR

Obtain an inspection warrant if the occupant refuses entry.

Prior notice is not always required, but if the occupant is unavailable or uncooperative, legal measures must be taken.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. must give prior notice to the occupant → Incorrect

While prior notice is sometimes given as a courtesy, it is not legally required for routine inspections unless mandated by local ordinances.

B. need not give prior notice of the inspection to the occupant → Incorrect

While prior notice may not be required, entry still requires consent or a warrant. This answer does not fully address the legal requirement for an inspection warrant if entry is denied.

C. must provide the occupant with at least 24 hours of advance notice → Incorrect

No universal 24-hour notice rule exists under the IFC unless specified by local regulations.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is D because fire inspectors must either give prior notice to the occupant or obtain an inspection warrant if entry is refused (IFC Section 104.3).

 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.

Platforms used for access to aboveground tanks storing flammable or combustible liquids are regulated by 2021 IFC, Section 5704 – Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

IFC 5704.2.7.4 – Access to Aboveground Tanks:

"Platforms, ladders, and stairways providing access to aboveground tanks storing flammable or combustible liquids shall be of noncombustible construction."

This ensures that in case of fire, the access structures do not contribute to the spread of flames.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. At least 4 ft. wide. – The IFC does not specify a required width for platforms.

C. Built of nonferrous, nonsparking metal. – While important in hazardous areas, this is not a general requirement for platforms accessing aboveground tanks.

D. Located no closer than 3 ft. to the side of the tank. – There is no specific 3-ft. clearance requirement in the IFC for platforms.

✅ Correct Answer: B. Built of noncombustible construction.

According to fire codes, a hazardous materials storage tank that remains unused for more than 90 days requires additional safeguards as determined by the code official. This is to prevent leaks, contamination, and fire hazards due to deterioration or potential unauthorized access.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 5704.2.13.1.3 (Out-of-Service Storage Tanks)

IFC 5704.2.13.1.3 states that a hazardous materials storage tank left unused for more than 90 days must be safeguarded by the measures required by the code official. These measures may include:

Removal of hazardous substances

Proper tank inerting or sealing

Leak prevention and periodic inspections

2. NFPA 30 – Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code (2021 Edition)

NFPA 30, Section 21.7.1 aligns with IFC guidelines, stating that inactive hazardous materials tanks must be properly maintained or decommissioned after 90 days.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 30 days is too short; the IFC specifies 90 days as the threshold for requiring safeguards.

Option B (Incorrect): 60 days is also too short based on the IFC and NFPA 30 requirements.

Option C (Correct): 90 days is the correct limit before safety measures are required.

Option D (Incorrect): 120 days would exceed the safety limit, leading to potential hazards.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. 90 days.

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. ✅

The storage of flammable liquids in control areas within an S Occupancy (Storage Occupancy) is governed by the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC), Section 5003 – Hazardous Materials, and Table 5003.1.1(1).

IFC Section 5003.1.1(1) – Maximum Allowable Quantity (MAQ) Adjustments:

The maximum allowable quantity (MAQ) of flammable liquids in a control area may be doubled if an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed throughout the building.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. Permission is granted by the chief.

Fire officials can enforce code requirements but do not have the authority to override MAQ limits unless explicitly allowed in the code.

B. The control area exceeds 50,000 sq. ft.

The code does not specify an increase based solely on size; the sprinkler system is the determining factor.

D. The control area is provided with exhaust ventilation in accordance with fire code requirements.

While ventilation is important for hazardous material safety, it does not allow for an increase in the maximum storage quantity.

✅ Correct Answer: C. The building is protected with automatic sprinklers.

Storage of fine magnesium scrap is regulated under 2021 IFC Chapter 59 – Magnesium and specifically IFC Section 5904.3.2.5 – Separation Distances for Magnesium Scrap Storage.

IFC 5904.3.2.5 – Minimum Separation Distances:

Fine magnesium scrap in quantities greater than 1,000 cubic feet must be separated from all buildings (except those used for magnesium scrap recovery) by at least 250 feet.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

A. 30 feet – Too close; insufficient for high-risk metal fires.

B. 50 feet – Does not meet the minimum required separation for magnesium scrap.

C. 100 feet – While larger, it still does not meet the 250-ft. requirement