CFPS

The NFPA CFPS (Certified Fire Protection Specialist) exam covers a broad range of fire protection topics. There's no single, universally agreed-upon list of "main points" as the weighting of topics can shift slightly between exam versions, but the following areas consistently represent the core knowledge assessed:

I. Fire Protection Systems: This is by far the largest portion of the exam. Expect detailed knowledge of:

• Sprinkler Systems: Types (wet pipe, dry pipe, pre-action, deluge), design, installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance. Understanding hydraulic calculations is crucial.
• Standpipes and Hose Systems: Design criteria, water supply requirements, hose sizes, nozzle types, and system testing.
• Fire Alarm Systems: Types (conventional, addressable), components (detectors, control panels, notification appliances), design principles, installation requirements, testing, and maintenance. Understanding codes and standards related to notification system audibility and visual signaling is essential.
• Special Hazards Suppression Systems: Knowledge of systems designed for specific hazards like cooking equipment (kitchen suppression), flammable liquids, and other industrial processes. This often includes understanding of specific extinguishing agents.
• Fire Suppression Systems: Knowledge beyond sprinkler systems, including gaseous suppression systems (e.g., FM-200, Inergen), foam systems, and dry chemical systems.

II. Fire Protection Code and Standards: A strong understanding of relevant codes and standards is paramount. This includes:

• NFPA Standards: Familiarity with numerous NFPA standards, including but not limited to NFPA 10 (Portable Fire Extinguishers), NFPA 13 (Sprinkler Systems), NFPA 13D (Sprinkler Systems for One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes), NFPA 20 (Centrifugal Fire Pumps), NFPA 24 (Private Fire Service Mains and their Appurtenances), NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm Code), and others.
• IBC (International Building Code) and other model codes: Understanding how fire protection systems integrate with building codes and regulations is essential.

III. Fire Science and Technology:

• Fire Behavior: Understanding the fire triangle, the process of combustion, fire spread, and factors influencing fire development.
• Building Construction: Familiarity with different building materials and their fire resistance properties.
• Risk Assessment and Mitigation: This involves understanding how to identify fire hazards, assess risk, and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.

IV. Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance: Thorough understanding of the inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements for various fire protection systems is crucial. This includes understanding the frequency of inspections and the documentation required.

V. Project Management Aspects: (Often less heavily weighted than others, but still important)

• Basic understanding of project planning, budgeting, and scheduling related to implementing fire protection systems.

Emphasis on Application: The exam isn't just about memorizing facts. It heavily tests the ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. Expect questions requiring you to analyze situations, solve problems, and make informed decisions based on fire protection principles and codes.

It's strongly recommended to use the official NFPA resources, including the CFPS exam handbook and study materials, for the most accurate and up-to-date information. These materials will detail the specific areas of emphasis for the current exam version.