CAT CAT Codes, Standards, and Regulations 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which NFPA standard specifically governs the installation of fire alarm and signaling systems in the United States?
- NFPA 72 (Correct answer)
- NFPA 101
- NFPA 13
- NFPA 70
Correct answer: NFPA 72
NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, is the primary standard governing the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems.
Question 2: What organization publishes the National Electrical Code (NEC) used by alarm technicians?
- NFPA (Correct answer)
- UL
- ESA
- CSAA
Correct answer: NFPA
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publishes the NEC (NFPA 70), which governs all electrical wiring including alarm system wiring.
Question 3: What does a UL listing on an alarm control panel indicate?
- The panel has been independently tested and meets safety and performance standards (Correct answer)
- The panel was manufactured in the United States
- The panel is approved only for residential use
- The panel requires a licensed contractor to install
Correct answer: The panel has been independently tested and meets safety and performance standards
A UL listing means Underwriters Laboratories has tested the product to verify it meets defined safety and performance standards for its intended application.
Question 4: What does the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) determine in an alarm installation?
- Whether the installation meets applicable codes and standards for that locality (Correct answer)
- The brand of equipment required
- The monthly monitoring fee
- The number of required technicians on site
Correct answer: Whether the installation meets applicable codes and standards for that locality
The AHJ — typically a local fire marshal or building official — interprets and enforces applicable codes and has final approval authority over installations.
Question 5: What minimum sound pressure level does NFPA 72 require for fire alarm audible devices in sleeping areas?
- 75 dB at the pillow level (Correct answer)
- 60 dB at the device
- 90 dB at the panel
- 50 dB in the corridor
Correct answer: 75 dB at the pillow level
NFPA 72 requires audible fire alarm signals to produce at least 75 dB measured at the pillow to reliably awaken sleeping occupants.
Question 6: Which state-level license type is most commonly required to install security alarm systems in the US?
- Alarm contractor or burglar alarm installer license (Correct answer)
- General electrical contractor license
- HVAC technician license
- Fire suppression contractor license
Correct answer: Alarm contractor or burglar alarm installer license
Most US states require alarm installers to hold a specific alarm contractor or burglar alarm technician license separate from a general electrical license.
CAT CAT Codes, Standards, and Regulations 1
Which NFPA standard specifically governs the installation of fire alarm and signaling systems in the United States?