The Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems Level I Exam (ITFAS-Level-1)

Remote annunciators provide fire alarm system status at secondary locations. NFPA 72 mandates annual functional testing of these devices to ensure they correctly display and sound appropriate signals.

NFPA 72 (2022), Table 14.4.3.2 — Testing Methods and Frequencies:

Category: Annunciators (remote)

Frequency: Annually

Test Method: “Verify correct visual/audible indication of alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals.”

Technicians must activate actual alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals and confirm they display correctly at the remote annunciator.

Correct answer: D. Annually

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If you choose not to send a sample of devices to a lab for testing , then all nonrestorable, fixed-temperature spot-type heat detectors must be replaced after 15 years.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.4.4.4.1:

“After 15 years from the date of installation, all fixed-temperature, nonrestorable heat detectors shall be replaced or tested using a method approved by the manufacturer.”

If testing is not performed , then replacement of all devices is required .

Correct answer: D. Replace all devices

When site-specific software (such as logic for fire alarm control panels) is changed, 100% of the devices affected by that change must be tested to confirm correct operation. Also, 10% of unaffected devices must be tested as a safeguard.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.4.2.2.4:

“When system software is modified, 100% of the affected devices or functions and 10% of the nonaffected devices or functions shall be tested.”

This ensures that updates don’t unintentionally compromise unrelated areas of the system.

Correct answer: D. 100% of devices affected

Manual fire alarm boxes (pull stations) must be visually inspected monthly to ensure accessibility, visibility, and no physical damage.

NFPA 72 (2022), Table 14.3.1 — Inspection Frequencies:

"Manual fire alarm boxes" → Monthly

The inspection verifies the handle is not blocked and the device is clearly labeled.

Correct answer: A. Monthly

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Heat detectors that are nonrestorable must either be replaced after 15 years or undergo sample testing. If testing is chosen, at least 4 detectors per 100 of the same model and environment must be tested in an approved lab.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.4.4.4.1:

“After 15 years from the date of installation, all fixed-temperature, nonrestorable heat detectors shall be replaced or tested using a laboratory method... A minimum of 4 detectors shall be tested for each 100 detectors installed.”

This ensures detector reliability over time.

Correct answer: B. 4

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NFPA 72 mandates that fire alarm system documentation be stored in a dedicated cabinet, and that cabinet must be clearly labeled. The exact phrase required is:

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 7.7.2 :

"The cabinet shall be prominently labeled 'SYSTEM RECORD DOCUMENTS.'"

This ensures that anyone — including inspectors, AHJs, or technicians — can easily identify where critical system information is stored.

Correct answer: D. System record documents

NFPA 72 requires the installation date of batteries to be clearly marked for maintenance and service life tracking.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 10.6.10.1.1:

“Each battery shall be marked with the month and year of installation.”

This helps ensure timely testing, maintenance, and replacement based on age.

Correct answer: C. Month and year of installation

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NFPA 72 outlines the retention period for records of inspections and testing in Section 14.6.3.1 . These records are important for verification during audits or when reviewing system maintenance history.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 14.6.3.1 :

"Records shall be retained for a period of one year after the next test and until the next test is performed."

This means records must be kept until the next test happens and for 1 year after that , not just a fixed calendar period.

Correct answer: D. Until the next test and 1 year

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Testing of engine-driven generators is governed by NFPA 110 , not NFPA 72. NFPA 72 references this standard for standby power systems.

NFPA 110 (2022), Section 8.4.1:

“Diesel generator sets shall be exercised at least once weekly.”

This includes running the generator under load and verifying automatic start capability.

NFPA 72 (2022), Section 10.6.3.2:

Refers to NFPA 110 for testing of standby/emergency power systems.

Correct answer: A. Weekly

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