Free F01 Sprinkler System Control Valves Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How can a Fireguard visually determine that an OS&Y valve is in the fully open position?
- The handwheel is easy to turn
- A green light is illuminated on the valve
- The stem is raised and visible (Correct answer)
- The stem is lowered and not visible
Correct answer: The stem is raised and visible
An OS&Y (Outside Stem and Yoke) valve clearly indicates its position by its stem. When the valve is open, the threaded stem rises and is visible above the handwheel; when the valve is closed, the stem is not visible.
Question 2: A Post Indicator Valve (PIV) is most commonly found in what location?
- On the roof of the building
- In the main electrical room
- Inside a stairwell
- Outside the building, controlling the water main (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Outside the building, controlling the water main
A Post Indicator Valve (PIV) is a type of control valve that is typically located outside the building, often in the yard or near the street. It controls the underground water main that supplies the building's fire protection system.
Question 3: What is the primary function of a sprinkler system control valve?
- To control the water pressure in the system
- To control the water supply to the sprinkler system (Correct answer)
- To test the fire alarm system
- To drain the sprinkler system for maintenance
Correct answer: To control the water supply to the sprinkler system
The primary and most critical function of a control valve, such as an OS&Y or PIV, is to start or stop the flow of water to the sprinkler system. These valves must be kept in the fully open position to ensure water is available in case of a fire.
Question 4: How does a Post Indicator Valve (PIV) display whether it is OPEN or SHUT?
- By the position of its handle
- With a red or green colored flag
- In a small window that reads 'OPEN' or 'SHUT' (Correct answer)
- It does not display its status visually
Correct answer: In a small window that reads 'OPEN' or 'SHUT'
A PIV has a small glass window on the valve post. Behind the glass, a plate indicates the valve's status, clearly reading either 'OPEN' or 'SHUT', allowing for quick and easy visual confirmation from the outside.
Question 5: What does the acronym OS&Y stand for?
- On-Site & Yellow
- Outside Stem and Yoke (Correct answer)
- Open System & Yard
- Official Sprinkler & Yard-valve
Correct answer: Outside Stem and Yoke
OS&Y stands for Outside Stem and Yoke or Outside Screw and Yoke. This name describes the valve's mechanism, where the threaded stem is outside the valve body, making its position (and thus the valve's status) visible.
Question 6: If a Fireguard discovers a sprinkler control valve is sealed in a closed position, what is the first and most critical action to take?
- Attempt to open the valve themselves
- Record it in the logbook and check it again later
- Immediately notify their supervisor and the FDNY (Correct answer)
- Post a sign on the valve indicating it is closed
Correct answer: Immediately notify their supervisor and the FDNY
A closed sprinkler control valve is a serious impairment to the building's fire protection system. The Fireguard's immediate responsibility is to notify their supervisor and the FDNY dispatcher of the out-of-service condition.
