NFPA CWBSP Exam Questions
Certified Water-Based Systems Professionals (Page 3 )

Updated On: 28-Feb-2026

Based on an existing hydraulic placard located at the sprinkler system riser, the design of the sprinkler system is based on a density of 0.495 gpm/ft2 (20.1 mm/min) over an area of 2000 ft2 (186 m2). Sprinklers in cabinet are 286 degrees.
Which of the following hazards can be protected with this design criteria?

  1. Class IlI encapsulated commodity stored on single and double row racks to a storage height of 22 ft (4.9 m).
  2. Class IV nonencapsulated commodity stored on single and double row racks to a storage height of 20 ft (6.1 m) with 8 ft (2.4 m) aisles.
  3. Group A nonexpanded plastic stored in stable piles to a maximum height of 15 ft (4.6 m) in a 25 ft (7.6 m) high building.
  4. Group A plastic stored on single and double row racks to a maximum height of 15 ft (4.6 m) in a 25 ft (7.6 m) high building.

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

Group A plastics, even when stored on racks, present a high challenge to sprinkler systems due to their high heat release rates. The given design criteria, especially the density of 0.495 gpm/ft² over an area of 2000 ft², might be suitable for controlling fires in Group A plastic commodities stored to the specified height, considering the use of high-temperature rated sprinklers (286 degrees) which are typically used in high-challenge fire scenarios.



A sprinkler system has been installed with 100 sprinklers.
What is the minimum number of spare sprinklers to be provided?

  1. 3
  2. 6
  3. 9
  4. 12

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

According to NFPA 13, a supply of at least six spare sprinklers shall be maintained on the premises for facilities having under 300 sprinklers. Since the sprinkler system has been installed with 100 sprinklers, the minimum number of spare sprinklers to be provided is six.


Reference:

NFPA 13, 2019 edition, section 16.2.7.5(1)1; NFPA 13 Handbook, 2019 edition, section 16.2.7.5(1)2
1: https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and- standards/detail?code=13 2: https://www.nfpa.org/product/nfpa-13-handbook/p0013hb



What is the hose stream allowance and duration for rolled paper storage protected using ESFR sprinklers?

  1. 250 gpm (950 L/min) for 60 minutes
  2. 250 gpm (950 L/min) for 180 minutes
  3. 500 gpm (1900 L/min) for 120 minutes
  4. 500 gpm (1900 L/min) for 180 minutes

Answer(s): C

Explanation:

ESFR (Early Suppression, Fast Response) sprinklers are designed for high-challenge fire hazards like rolled paper storage. The hose stream allowance for such systems is typically higher to account for the potential need for manual firefighting assistance. 500 gpm for 120 minutes provides a substantial water supply for this purpose.


Reference:

Based on NFPA 13's guidelines for storage and ESFR sprinkler systems.



What is the pressure at a sprinkler head with a flow of 33 gpm (125 L/min) with a K-factor of 5.6 (80)?

  1. 15.2 psi (1.1 bar)
  2. 22.3 psi (1.54 bar)
  3. 34.7 psi (2.4 bar)
  4. 54.8 psi (3.78 bar)

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

The pressure at a sprinkler can be calculated using the formula P=Q²/K², where P is the pressure in psi, Q is the flow rate in gpm, and K is the K-factor of the sprinkler. Substituting the given values (Q=33 gpm, K=5.6) yields a pressure of approximately 22.3 psi.


Reference:

Basic hydraulic principles applied in the design and analysis of sprinkler systems as outlined in NFPA 13.



The purpose of the owner's certificate is to

  1. help ensure that the capability of the sprinkler system is adequate to address the hazard.
  2. replace project plans.
  3. obtain the building permit.
  4. be a declaration by the sprinkler contractor as to the hazards in the building.

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

The owner's certificate is a form that the owner or the owner's representative fills out to provide information about the property, the intended use of the building, the existing or planned construction, and the presence of any special materials, occupancies, or hazards. The purpose of the owner's certificate is to help ensure that the capability of the sprinkler system is adequate to address the hazard and that the design and installation of the fire sprinkler system are based on accurate and complete information. The owner's certificate is not intended to replace project plans, obtain the building permit, or be a declaration by the sprinkler contractor as to the hazards in the building.


Reference:

Owner's Information Certificate; NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems; NFPA 13 Handbook






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