All Fire-Inspector-II Test Inside International Code Council Questions

Paint Spray Booth Clearance Requirements

According to the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021, Section 2404.3.2, paint spray booths must have a minimum clearance of 18 inches from unprotected combustible materials.

This clearance requirement helps prevent heat transfer, fire spread, and ignition of nearby combustible materials due to the operation of the spray booth.

2. Why 18 Inches is the Correct Answer

Spray booths generate overspray, vapors, and heat, making clearance essential for fire prevention.

The requirement applies to combustible walls, ceilings, and storage materials surrounding the spray booth.

If combustibles are within 18 inches, additional fire protection such as fire-rated barriers or sprinkler protection may be required.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (12 inches) – Incorrect, as the IFC mandates a minimum 18-inch clearance.

Option C (24 inches) – Exceeds the standard clearance requirement but is not the official minimum. Incorrect.

Option D (36 inches) – Some jurisdictions may require larger clearances, but IFC mandates 18 inches as the minimum. Incorrect.

Reference Sources:

International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 – Section 2404.3.2 (Paint Spray Booth Clearance Requirements)

NFPA 33: Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials (Clearance Guidelines)

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: B. 18 inche

IFC Section 901.5 (Acceptance Tests) requires fire protection systems, including fire alarms, to be tested upon completion to ensure compliance with NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) and the IFC. The contractor’s verification of full compliance (B) signals readiness for the official acceptance test by the fire code official, ensuring all components are installed and functional. Option A (zone-by-zone testing) is impractical for final acceptance. Option C ties the test to water supply, irrelevant to alarms. Option D (one year) is excessive and not required by IFC or NFPA 72 for initial acceptance. Thus, B is correct.

Understanding Type III Construction

According to the International Building Code (IBC) 2021, Section 602.3, Type III construction is a mix of noncombustible and combustible materials.

Exterior walls must be noncombustible or fire-retardant-treated wood, while interior structural elements (such as floors, roofs, and partitions) can be wood.

2. Common Uses of Type III Construction

Churches, schools, apartment buildings, and mercantile (retail) structures are often built using Type III construction because it balances fire resistance with cost-effectiveness.

Many low-rise residential and commercial buildings use this type due to its ability to support multiple stories while maintaining some fire protection.

3. Verification of Other Options

Option A (Type I) – Incorrect, as Type I construction is entirely noncombustible (steel/concrete) and used for high-rises, not typical for churches, schools, or apartments.

Option B (Type II) – Incorrect, as Type II construction is fully noncombustible but has lower fire resistance than Type I, mainly used for commercial buildings, warehouses, and low-rise offices.

Option D (Type IV) – Incorrect, as Type IV (heavy timber) is rarely used for schools and apartments, though some older churches may use it.

Reference Sources:

International Building Code (IBC) 2021 – Section 602.3 (Type III Construction Definition)

NFPA 220: Standard on Types of Building Construction

ICC Fire Inspector II Study Guide (2021)

Thus, the correct and verified answer is: C. Type III. ✅

 Reference to Occupant Load Calculation:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Section 1004.2 states that the calculated occupant load of a building may be increased if all other life safety provisions are met.

However, the occupant load cannot exceed one person per 5 square feet when increased beyond the standard calculations.

 Fire Safety Considerations for Increased Occupant Load:

Increasing the occupant load requires ensuring:

Egress capacity (number and width of exits) meets the increased load.

Fire protection systems (sprinklers, alarms, etc.) are adequate for the new load.

Proper ventilation and sanitation facilities are maintained.

IFC 1004.2 and NFPA 101 both enforce the maximum limit of 1 occupant per 5 square feet in modified occupant load scenarios.

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 3 sq. ft. → Incorrect

Too small for safe egress and occupant movement; the code does not allow such high density in general occupancies.

C. 7 sq. ft. → Incorrect

While some occupancies have higher space-per-occupant allowances, 5 sq. ft. is the maximum density permitted when increasing load.

D. 15 sq. ft. → Incorrect

15 sq. ft. per person is for lower-density assembly and business occupancies, not for maximum occupant load increases.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is B (5 sq. ft. per occupant) as per IFC 1004.2 and NFPA 101, which govern occupant load increases in buildings.