F89 FLSD Roles and Responsibilities 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which statement best describes the relationship between the FLSD and the deputy FLSD?
- The deputy FLSD assumes command only when the FLSD is absent or incapacitated (Correct answer)
- The deputy FLSD commands all drills independently of the FLSD
- Both the FLSD and deputy FLSD share equal command authority at all times
- The deputy FLSD is responsible only for tenant floor wardens, not building systems
Correct answer: The deputy FLSD assumes command only when the FLSD is absent or incapacitated
The deputy FLSD steps into the FLSD's full role only when the primary FLSD is unavailable, ensuring continuity of command.
Question 2: What information must the FLSD relay to FDNY when reporting a fire via the building's voice communication system?
- Floor of the fire, type of fire if known, and any life safety concerns (Correct answer)
- Only the floor number of the alarm activation
- The building address and nothing else
- Instructions for FDNY on how to access the building
Correct answer: Floor of the fire, type of fire if known, and any life safety concerns
FDNY requires the floor location, nature of the emergency, and any known life safety hazards to properly deploy resources.
Question 3: Under NYC Fire Code, what is the minimum certification requirement to serve as an FLSD in a Class E occupancy high-rise?
- A valid FDNY Certificate of Fitness (C of F) for Fire and Life Safety Director (Correct answer)
- A general fire safety certificate from any state
- Completion of a Red Cross first aid course
- A building manager license issued by the NYC Department of Buildings
Correct answer: A valid FDNY Certificate of Fitness (C of F) for Fire and Life Safety Director
NYC requires FLSDs in Class E high-rise buildings to hold a valid FDNY Certificate of Fitness specifically for Fire and Life Safety Director.
Question 4: When should the FLSD activate the building's voice communication system during an emergency?
- As soon as an emergency is confirmed, to provide instructions to occupants on affected floors (Correct answer)
- Only after FDNY has arrived on scene and authorized its use
- At the start of every business day as a test
- Only during a full building evacuation, not partial evacuations
Correct answer: As soon as an emergency is confirmed, to provide instructions to occupants on affected floors
The voice communication system should be activated promptly upon confirming an emergency to direct occupants on the affected floors before conditions worsen.
Question 5: A pregnant occupant on the 22nd floor cannot use the stairs during an evacuation. What is the FLSD's responsibility?
- Direct the occupant to the area of rescue assistance and notify FDNY of her location (Correct answer)
- Carry the occupant down the stairs personally
- Instruct the occupant to use the elevator to evacuate
- Leave the occupant in place and continue the evacuation without notifying anyone
Correct answer: Direct the occupant to the area of rescue assistance and notify FDNY of her location
Areas of rescue assistance are designated safe refuge points; the FLSD must inform FDNY of any occupants awaiting rescue there.
Question 6: Which entity has ultimate authority over evacuation decisions in a high-rise building emergency once FDNY is on scene?
- The FDNY Incident Commander (Correct answer)
- The FLSD
- The building owner
- The local fire safety bureau
Correct answer: The FDNY Incident Commander
Once FDNY arrives, the Incident Commander assumes overall authority; the FLSD supports and provides information but does not override FDNY decisions.
Question 7: The FLSD notices a propped-open stairwell door during a routine inspection. What is the correct action?
- Remove the obstruction immediately and document the finding in the log (Correct answer)
- Leave the door and report it verbally to the building owner next week
- Evacuate the stairwell floor as a precaution
- Call FDNY for an inspection before taking any action
Correct answer: Remove the obstruction immediately and document the finding in the log
Propped stairwell doors compromise smoke compartmentalization; the FLSD must correct the hazard immediately and record it in the fire safety log.
Which statement best describes the relationship between the FLSD and the deputy FLSD?