ICC Certified Fire inspector One Practice Test

When should a standpipe system be installed during the construction of a high-rise building?

1. When it reaches 20 feet

2. When it reaches 30 feet

3. When it reaches 40 feet

4. When it reaches 50 feet

The correct answer is: When it reaches 40 feet

A standpipe system is a crucial component of fire protection in high-rise buildings. The requirement to install a standpipe system when a building reaches a specific height is based on the increased risk of fire and the need for a reliable water supply for firefighters. In most building codes, including the International Building Code (IBC), a standpipe system is required to be installed by the time the structure reaches 40 feet in height. This height correlates with the point at which firefighters may need a more efficient method for combating fires, as traditional ground-level hoses may not effectively reach higher floors. By having a standpipe system in place at this stage of construction, it ensures that the building is adequately equipped to handle potential fire emergencies, providing a safer environment for both occupants and emergency responders. The installation of the standpipe system at this height supports efficient firefighting operations and enhances overall safety measures within high-rise structures.