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

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.

Fire Extinguisher Requirements for Hot Work Locations

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 3504.2.6, one or more approved fire extinguishers must be located within 30 feet of hot work locations.

Hot work includes welding, cutting, grinding, brazing, or any operation that generates heat, sparks, or flames.

2. Why 30 Feet is the Correct Answer

Hot work presents a high fire risk, and quick access to fire extinguishers is crucial for immediate response.

The 30-foot requirement ensures that extinguishers are readily accessible without obstructing the work area.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (20 feet) – Incorrect, as the IFC mandates a 30-foot minimum distance.

Option C (40 feet) – Incorrect, as this exceeds the maximum distance allowed under the fire code.

Option D (50 feet) – Incorrect, as fire extinguishers must be closer to provide effective fire suppression.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 3504.2.6 (Fire Extinguishers for Hot Work)

NFPA 51B: Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: B. 30 feet. ✅

 Reference to ICC Fire Code Regulations:

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 308.1.5 (2021 Edition), the use of open-flame devices, including candles, is prohibited in dormitories, sleeping rooms, and similar occupancies unless specifically approved by the fire code official.

The regulation exists to prevent fire hazards in areas with high occupant density and potentially limited egress routes.

 Fire Safety Concerns in Dormitories:

Dormitories typically contain highly combustible materials such as bedding, curtains, and furniture, making them susceptible to rapid fire spread.

The presence of multiple residents in a shared living space increases the risk of fire-related casualties.

Even in sprinklered buildings, candles pose an unnecessary ignition risk that could endanger occupants before the activation of fire suppression systems.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

B. may be used in a sprinklered dormitory → Incorrect

While fire sprinklers help control fires, they do not prevent ignition, and the prohibition still applies regardless of sprinkler systems.

C. must be kept a minimum of 12 inches from combustibles → Incorrect

This rule applies to general open-flame devices in some circumstances but does not override the outright ban on candles in dormitories.

D. must be kept a minimum of 36 inches from combustibles → Incorrect

Similar to option C, maintaining a distance from combustibles does not exempt candles from being prohibited in dormitory settings.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is A (Candles may not be used) based on the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 308.1.5, ensuring fire safety compliance in dormitory settings.

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.

IFC Section 2303.7 classifies ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastics as Group A (high-hazard) due to their flammability and smoke production, per NFPA 13. Options B and C are less hazardous, D is a commodity class, not a plastic group. Thus, A is correct.

IFC Section 105.6 lists activities requiring operational permits. For A, lumber storage exceeding 100,000 board feet (bd. ft.) indoors or outdoors requires a permit (Section 105.6.28, Lumber Yards), but local thresholds may be lower—85,000 bd. ft. is close to this limit and likely exceeds typical exempt amounts, triggering a permit in many jurisdictions. For B, IFC Table 3206.2 allows small quantities of combustible commodities like baled cotton (100 cu. ft. is minimal) without a permit unless part of a larger high-piled storage operation. For C, fruit ripening with CO2 (Section 105.6.13) requires a permit only for specific flammable gases, not CO2 alone, which is nonflammable. For D, organic coating production (Section 105.6.33) requires a permit only above 1 gallon per day, but 2 gallons is still small-scale and context-dependent—lumber storage is the clearer permit trigger here. Thus, A is the best answer.

The fire-resistance rating requirements for different building elements in Type IV (Heavy Timber) construction are specified in the 2021 International Building Code (IBC), Table 601 – Fire-Resistance Rating Requirements for Building Elements (Hours).

IBC Table 601 – Fire Resistance for Type IV Construction:

Interior nonbearing walls and partitions in Type IV construction require 0 hours of fire resistance.

This is because Type IV construction primarily relies on large, heavy timber elements that provide inherent fire resistance.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

B. 1 hour – Incorrect, as nonbearing interior walls in Type IV construction are not required to have a fire-resistance rating.

C. 1-1/2 hours – Not required by code.

D. 2 hours – Only structural elements like exterior walls in some cases may require fire resistance, but nonbearing interior partitions do not.

✅ Correct Answer: A. 0 hours

Definition of Extra-High-Rack Combustible Storage

According to International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 3206.6, extra-high-rack combustible storage is defined as:

Class I, II, III, or IV commodities stored on racks exceeding 40 feet in height.

High-hazard commodities stored on racks exceeding 30 feet in height.

2. Understanding Rack Storage Classifications

Class I-IV Commodities: These refer to general, moderate-risk combustible materials such as wood, paper, and plastics.

High-Hazard Commodities: These are materials that have a higher fire risk, such as highly combustible plastics, flammable solids, and products prone to rapid heat release.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (20; 30) – Incorrect, as 40 feet is the correct threshold for Class I-IV commodities.

Option B (30; 40) – Incorrect, as 30 feet applies to high-hazard commodities, not Class I-IV commodities.

Option D (50; 40) – Incorrect, as the correct heights are 40 feet and 30 feet, respectively.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 3206.6 (Definition of Extra-High-Rack Storage)

NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems (High-Rack Storage Requirements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

According to the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) and the International Building Code (IBC) Section 1014.3, handrails are categorized into Type I and Type II based on their shape and size requirements.

Type I handrails refer to those that are not circular in shape but still comply with graspability requirements.

IBC Section 1014.3.1 states that:

If a handrail is not circular, it must have a perimeter dimension between 4 inches (minimum) and 6.25 inches (maximum).

The cross-section of such a handrail should provide an adequate grasping surface.

✅ Correct Answer: D. 6.25 inches

In automobile refinishing spray booths where drying by heat occurs inside the same spray booth, fire codes require interlocks to prevent ignition hazards.

Before activating the drying apparatus, the ventilation system must purge the booth of spray vapors for at least 5 minutes to remove flammable concentrations.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

1. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 2404.7.3 (Drying Operations in Spray Booths)

IFC 2404.7.3 mandates that spray booths must have interlocks to purge vapors for a minimum of 5 minutes before activating the drying process.

This ensures that flammable vapors are removed before heat sources operate, reducing fire risks.

2. NFPA 33 – Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials (2021 Edition) – Section 15.4.6

NFPA 33, Section 15.4.6 confirms the requirement for a 5-minute ventilation purge cycle before heat drying.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 2 minutes is insufficient for adequate vapor removal.

Option B (Incorrect): 3 minutes does not meet the minimum safety requirement.

Option C (Incorrect): 4 minutes is slightly below the code-mandated requirement.

Option D (Correct): 5 minutes is the minimum required purge time per IFC 2404.7.3 and NFPA 33.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: D. 5.

 Reference to Explosive Storage Regulations:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 5604 and NFPA 495 (Explosive Materials Code) regulate the storage distances for Class 1.3 explosives (which include low explosives such as propellants and display fireworks).

Table 5604.5.2(3) of the IFC provides minimum separation distances between explosives storage and public traffic routes based on the weight of the explosives.

 Determining the Correct Distance:

According to IFC Table 5604.5.2(3), for 1,750 lb. of Class 1.3 explosives, the minimum separation distance from a public traffic route is 115 feet.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 50 ft. → Incorrect

50 feet is too close and does not meet the safety requirements for explosive storage.

B. 75 ft. → Incorrect

75 feet is insufficient based on IFC and NFPA separation tables.

D. 150 ft. → Incorrect

While more distance is safer, the minimum requirement is 115 feet, making 150 feet unnecessary per code.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is C (115 feet) based on IFC Table 5604.5.2(3) and NFPA 495 requirements for Class 1.3 explosives storage near public traffic routes.

Seating Arrangements for Large Assembly Events

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 1029.14, when more than 500 chairs are used for an assembly event held in a gymnasium (or similar venue), they must be either:

Secured to the floor OR

Fastened together in groups of at least three (3) chairs.

2. Why Groups of 3 is the Correct Answer

This requirement ensures organized seating, preventing chairs from shifting or obstructing aisles during emergencies.

Properly fastened chairs reduce the risk of crowd-related hazards, ensuring safe and efficient evacuation if needed.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (spaced at least 6 inches apart) – Incorrect, as the IFC requires chairs to be fastened together or secured when over 500 are used.

Option C (groups of not less than 6) – Incorrect, as the minimum required grouping is 3.

Option D (groups of not less than 10) – Incorrect, as the IFC does not mandate groups of 10.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 1029.14 (Seating and Fastening Requirements for Assembly Events)

NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (Seating Arrangements in Assembly Occupancies)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Aisle Width Requirements for Baled Fiber Storage

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 3206.9, blocks or piles of baled fiber must be separated by aisles at least 5 feet wide to allow for proper fire department access and fire prevention measures.

This regulation applies to combustible fibers such as cotton, jute, and hemp, which are highly flammable and can quickly contribute to fire spread.

2. Why 5 Feet is the Correct Answer

Adequate aisle spacing prevents fire from spreading rapidly between storage piles.

The 5-foot minimum width allows for fire suppression efforts and emergency personnel access.

Insufficient aisle width can trap heat and flames, increasing the severity of a fire incident.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (3 feet) – Incorrect, as this does not meet the minimum IFC requirement of 5 feet.

Option C (8 feet) – Incorrect, as the IFC requires a minimum of 5 feet, although wider aisles may be used based on facility layout.

Option D (10 feet) – Incorrect, since 5 feet is the standard requirement, though wider aisles may be beneficial for larger storage facilities.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 3206.9 (Aisle Width for Baled Fiber Storage)

NFPA 1: Fire Code – Storage of Combustible Fibers Regulations

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

1.

Exit Sign Letter Height Requirement

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 1013.5, and the International Building Code (IBC) 2021, Section 1013.5, exit sign letters must be at least 6 inches in height. However, the minimum height requirement for the wording within the sign (e.g., "EXIT") is specifically 4 inches.

The stroke width of these letters must be at least 0.5 inches to ensure visibility.

2. Verification of Other Options

Option A (three inches) – Below the minimum height requirement. Incorrect.

Option C (five inches) – Exceeds the minimum standard but is not the correct minimum required size. Incorrect.

Option D (six inches) – This applies to the total EXIT sign height, but the actual letter requirement is 4 inches. Incorrect.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 1013.5

International Building Code (IBC) 2021 – Section 1013.5

NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (Exit Sign Requirements)

To determine the maximum number of students permitted in a classroom, we must follow the occupant load calculation based on the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC).

Step 1: Calculate the Room Area

The classroom measures 20 ft. x 30 ft., so the total area is:

20×30=600 sq. ft.20 \times 30 = 600 \text{ sq. ft.}20×30=600 sq. ft.

Step 2: Subtract the Area Occupied by Fixed Tables

Each table measures 4 ft. x 8 ft., so its area is:

4×8=32 sq. ft. per table4 \times 8 = 32 \text{ sq. ft. per table}4×8=32 sq. ft. per table

Since there are 4 tables:

32×4=128 sq. ft. occupied by tables32 \times 4 = 128 \text{ sq. ft. occupied by tables}32×4=128 sq. ft. occupied by tables

Step 3: Determine the Usable Space for Students

600−128=472 sq. ft. available600 - 128 = 472 \text{ sq. ft. available}600−128=472 sq. ft. available

Step 4: Apply the Occupant Load Factor

According to 2021 IBC Table 1004.5 (Occupant Load Factor), the factor for a classroom with tables and chairs is 20 sq. ft. per person.

472÷20=23.6472 \div 20 = 23.6472÷20=23.6

Since the occupant load must be rounded down, the maximum number of students is 24.

Reference to Fire Inspector Documentation:

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

A classroom with tables and chairs requires 20 sq. ft. per occupant.

This method ensures compliance with egress and fire safety requirements.

2. 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – Section 1004.1 (Occupant Load Determination)

The IFC states that occupant load is based on net usable floor area and must follow IBC Table 1004.5.

Detailed Explanation of Answer Choices:

Option A (Incorrect): 12 students would be too low based on the calculations.

Option B (Correct): 24 students is the accurate calculation following IBC 1004.5.

Option C (Incorrect): 30 students would exceed the available space per code.

Option D (Incorrect): 40 students is far above the allowed maximum.

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: B. 24.

Minimum Working Space Width for Electrical Equipment Panels

According to National Electrical Code (NEC) 110.26(A)(2) and International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 604.3, the minimum working space width for electrical equipment must be at least the width of the equipment or 30 inches, whichever is greater.

Since the equipment panel in the question is 66 inches wide, the required working space width must be at least 66 inches.

2. Why 66 Inches is the Correct Answer

The minimum clearance width must be equal to the width of the electrical equipment if the panel itself is wider than 30 inches.

This ensures safe maintenance and emergency access to electrical components.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (30 inches) – Incorrect, because the equipment is wider than 30 inches, requiring a larger clearance.

Option B (36 inches) – Incorrect, as this is not the requirement for a 66-inch-wide panel.

Option D (78 inches) – Incorrect, as the clearance does not need to exceed the width of the panel.

Reference Sources:

National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 – Section 110.26(A)(2) (Working Space Width Requirements)

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 604.3 (Electrical Equipment Clearance Requirements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

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.

Exit Announcements in Motion Picture Theaters

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 403.9.1.2, motion picture theaters must provide an audible announcement informing occupants of exit locations no more than 5 minutes prior to the start of each program.

This requirement ensures that audience members are aware of exit locations in case of an emergency, enhancing fire safety in crowded venues.

2. Verification of Other Options

Option B (10 minutes) – Exceeds the IFC maximum timeframe. Incorrect.

Option C (20 minutes) – Not specified in the IFC as a valid timeframe. Incorrect.

Option D (30 minutes) – Far beyond the required timeframe and would likely be ineffective. Incorrect.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 403.9.1.2 (Theater Exit Announcements)

NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (Theater Occupancy Requirements)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Understanding Construction Types

The International Building Code (IBC) Chapter 6 classifies building construction types based on material combustibility and fire resistance.

Type II construction is noncombustible, meaning it is built using materials such as steel or concrete that do not contribute fuel to a fire.

The difference between Type IIA and Type IIB is the level of fire resistance.

2. Fire Resistance Rating Requirement

Type IIA construction requires a minimum 1-hour fire-resistive rating for structural elements, meeting the conditions in the question.

Type IIB, on the other hand, has no minimum fire-resistive rating for structural components, making it less protective than Type IIA.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option B (IIB) – Incorrect, as Type IIB has no fire-resistive rating for its structural elements and does not meet the 1-hour requirement.

Option C (IIIB) – Incorrect, as Type III allows combustible exterior materials and is not entirely noncombustible.

Option D (VA) – Incorrect, as Type V construction is wood-framed and does not meet the requirement for noncombustible materials.

Reference Sources:

International Building Code (IBC) 2021 – Chapter 6 (Types of Construction)

NFPA 220: Standard on Types of Building Construction

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

High-Pile Combustible Storage Permit Requirements

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 105.6.23, a permit is required for the storage of high-pile combustible stock when the storage area exceeds 2,500 square feet.

2. Definition of High-Pile Storage

High-pile storage is defined as storage of combustible materials on racks or piles exceeding 12 feet in height (or 6 feet for highly combustible materials, such as rubber and plastics).

IFC Table 3206.2 establishes fire protection requirements based on storage height, area, and commodity class.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (225 sq. ft.) – Incorrect, as this is far below the 2,500 sq. ft. permit threshold.

Option B (500 sq. ft.) – Incorrect, as the fire code does not require a permit at this level.

Option C (1,000 sq. ft.) – Incorrect, as the IFC specifies 2,500 sq. ft. as the threshold for requiring a permit.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 105.6.23 (High-Pile Combustible Storage Permit Requirements)

IFC Chapter 32 (High-Piled Storage Regulations)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: D. 2,500. ✅

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

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.

 Reference to Fire Code Requirements for Clearance Between Combustible Fibers and Sprinklers:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 3206.6, states that the minimum clearance between the tops of piles of combustible fibers and sprinkler deflectors shall be no less than 3 feet.

This requirement ensures that the sprinkler system operates efficiently and that water distribution is not obstructed in case of a fire.

 Fire Safety Concerns:

Combustible fibers pose a high fire risk due to their flammability and tendency to generate large amounts of heat and smoke.

Adequate clearance prevents heat accumulation near the sprinkler heads, ensuring they activate at the correct temperature.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 2 ft. → Incorrect

Too low and could obstruct sprinkler operation, reducing water distribution effectiveness.

C. 4 ft. → Incorrect

Exceeds the required minimum per the IFC 3206.6 standard, though more clearance is beneficial.

D. 5 ft. → Incorrect

More than the code requirement, but the mandatory clearance is 3 feet.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is B (3 feet) based on IFC 3206.6, ensuring proper sprinkler performance and fire safety for combustible fiber storage.