FIRE PLAN
EXAMINER
CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
This Fire Plan Examiner Candidate Handbook contains important program information along with the following documents:
•Candidate Application Form
•Examination Retest Form
•Recertification Form
Please carefully review this handbook and retain it for reference
CFPE Program Overview
*Program Duration - Total length of the program is 10 months – 4 months to sign up for the exam and 6 months to complete the practicum
*Forms – All forms for the CFPE program are found in the Applications & Forms section in this handbook or by going to the Certified Fire Plan Examiner program web page at www.nfpa.org/cfpe.
*Program Fees - $350 USD for the initial exam. $150 USD to recertify at the end of each three (3) year certification period. The most up to date fee schedule may be found on the applicable forms at www.nfpa.org/cfpe.
*Application & Payment - payment must be received before the examination is taken. We accept credit cards and checks. Make checks payable to NFPA. If you decide to purchase a reference set you must indicate which set on the application. NOTE: reference sets are only provided to those individuals who enter the program and pay for the exam. You can mail (NFPA Certification Department, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169), fax (617- 984-7127), or e-mail (cfi@nfpa.org) the application.
*Code References – Check with your AHJ to see which code set is appropriate.
•2012 NFPA Code Set: NFPA 1, 2012; NFPA 13, 2010; NFPA 72, 2010; NFPA 101®, 2012;
•2015 NFPA Code Set: NFPA 1, 2015; NFPA 13, 2013; NFPA 72, 2013; NFPA 101®, 2015
*Written Examination Scheduling & Proctor Agreement- you have 4 months from entering the program to take the examination. You must send in the examination scheduling form and signed proctor agreement, at the same time, which indicates the date you are taking the examination, the proctor information – with a street mailing address for UPS delivery, and your information. Please note that we require at least 4 weeks advance notice to schedule the examination. You can email, mail or fax in the forms.
*Written Examination – the examination is four hours, paper and pencil format and only offered within the United States and Canada. It is open-book and contains 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam is compatible with the 2012 and 2015 reference sets listed above.
*Exam Results – You will receive your exam results by mail approximately three weeks after your test date. Exam results will not be given over the phone.
*Retest – if you fail the examination you have 90 days to retest. The retest form is found in the Application & Forms section within the candidate handbook and online at www.nfpa.org/cfpe.
*Practicum Phase – Once you have taken the exam and passed, the practicum portion of the program must be completed. The directions for the practicum phase are located in the Practicum Phase section of the candidate handbook. Five plan reviews must be completed – two site plans (mandatory) along with three non-site plans. For each fire plan review a copy of the title block or other plan ID must be provided along with the plan review report. Once you send in your complete practicum package your certificate will be issued.
*Recertification – once you have been certified, you must recertify every 3 years. The form is available in the Application & Forms section of the candidate handbook and online at www.nfpa.org/cfpe. The NFPA certification department will send you a reminder approximately 3 months prior to your recertification date. You must earn 60 continuing education credit points within the three year timeframe from the date your certificate was issued to the date the certificate expires. Do not wait until you receive the reminder to begin earning or tracking your recertification points.
9/11/2015
FIRE PLAN EXAMINER CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
FIREPLANEXAMINER-CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
► NFPA’s Mission |
2 |
► Mission of NFPA Certification Programs |
2 |
► Fire Plan Examiner Certification Program |
2 |
► Pro Board Accreditation |
2 |
► Program Goals |
2 |
► Features & Benefits |
2 |
► Eligibility |
2 |
► Eligibility Audit |
3 |
► Applications |
3 |
► Application Acceptance |
3 |
► Transfers |
3 |
► Program Fees |
3 |
► Veterans Affairs Benefits |
3 |
► Special Accommodations |
3 |
► Steps to Certification |
4 |
► Reference Materials |
4 |
► Exam Preparation |
4 |
► Exam Format |
5 |
► Exam Rules and Procedures |
5 |
► Failure to Appear for your Exam |
6 |
► Exam Cancellation |
6 |
► Exam Rescheduling |
6 |
► Cancellation and Rescheduling Exceptions |
6 |
► Exam Security |
6 |
► Copyright |
7 |
► Results |
7 |
► Retest |
7 |
► Confidentiality |
7 |
► Practicum Phase |
7 |
► Recertification |
8 |
► Use of Your CFPE Credential |
8 |
► Non-discrimination |
8 |
► Renewal |
9 |
► Replacement Certifications & Cancellation |
9 |
► Contact Information |
9 |
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FIRE PLAN EXAMINER
NFPA’s MISSION
Founded in 1896, NFPA is a global, nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.
MISSION OF NFPA CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
The overall mission of NFPA’s Certification Program is to enhance human and organizational performance as related to the use and application of NFPA codes and standards.
FIRE PLAN EXAMINER CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
The NFPA Fire Plan Examiner Certification program was created in response to repeated requests by local entities, state agencies, and national organizations to develop certification programs founded on NFPA 1031 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner, and other applicable NFPA codes and standards. These requests suggested that NFPA be the main catalyst and ultimate certifying body for such programs.
In late 1996, an independent organization conducted research that validated this need. Their findings supported broad- based appeal for the NFPA to create fire inspector and plan examiner related certification programs.
PRO BOARD ACCREDITATION
NFPA received its Pro Board accreditation on April 1, 2015. CFI-I, CFI-II, and CFPE certifications are now recognized by the Pro Board. Those candidates taking the NFPA exam after April 1, 2015, will be entered into the Pro Board registry and receive a certificate with both the NFPA and Pro Board seals.
PROGRAM GOALS:
•Enhance professionalism within the fire inspection community
•Ensure a uniform, fair process for certification that is accessible to everyone who is eligible
•Ensure proficiency in the use of codes and standards
•Facilitate success for those seeking certification
•Promote professional development through continuous learning
•Recognize and provide evidence of competence as related to NFPA 1031, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner
FEATURES & BENEFITS
CFPE credential holders receive the following features & benefits:
•A Pro Board recognized certification
•Recognition as an expert by your colleagues
•Greater confidence in your abilities
•Improved job performance
•Career advancement opportunities
Certificate holders also receive a NFPA / Pro Board CFPE certificate, wallet card and lapel pin that further highlights their accomplishment.
ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible to take the CFPE examination, candidates must demonstrate on the CFPE application that they meet the following criteria:
•The attainment of a high school diploma or equivalent
ELIGIBILITY AUDIT
A percentage of accepted applications are randomly selected for an eligibility audit by the NFPA certification staff. Submission of your application indicates your agreement to comply with audit terms. Any incorrect information or misrepresentation provided in the application process may result in sanctions in accordance with the discipline policy.
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FIRE PLAN EXAMINER
APPLICATIONS
All CFPE applications including the program application, transfer application, and retest application can be found in the candidate handbook in the applications and form section. They are also available at www.nfpa.org/cfpe, or by contacting NFPA’s certification department at (617) 984–7432.
APPLICATION ACCEPTANCE
An application is accepted only when both of the following requirements are met:
•The completed and signed application is received by NFPA
•The examination fee is processed by NFPA
Following the receipt of your CFPE application form and examination fee, the NFPA will send you an authorization letter and candidate materials.
TRANSFERS
Transfer from a CFPE program recognized by NFPA into the NFPA CFPE program requires the following:
•Meet CFPE eligibility requirements
•Provide proof of current certification in a Pro Board recognized CFPE program
•Complete and submit the CFPE transfer application along with payment and supporting eligibility documentation
The transfer application for the CFPE program is located in the candidate handbook under the Transfer section or at www.nfpa.org/cfpe. Forward the completed transfer application and supporting eligibility documentation and payment to the NFPA certification department.
People that transfer into the NFPA CFPE program are not eligible for a Pro Board recognized certification. To receive a NFPA / Pro Board certification candidates must enroll in NFPA’s certification program, pass NFPA’s exam and complete the practicum.
PROGRAM FEES
$350 USD for the initial exam. $150 USD to recertify at the end of each three (3) year certification period. The most up to date fee schedule may be found on the applicable forms at www.nfpa.org/cfpe.
VETERANS AFFAIRS BENEFITS
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has approved the CFPS, CFI and CFPE certification programs for reimbursement of examination fees. Contact your local veterans’ affairs office for details.
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS
NFPA provides special accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991 (ADA). If a disability prevents you from taking the examination under standard conditions, you may request special accommodations. Written requests explaining the nature of the disability (i.e., the diagnosis), the type of accommodation you feel is appropriate, and any supporting documentation of the diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional must accompany the registration application. NFPA reserves the right to request reasonable documentation from healthcare or other professionals to support requests for special accommodations.
STEPS TO CERTIFICATION
•Verification - Candidate must have attained a high school degree or equivalent.
•Examination - You will have to sit for a written examination within 4 months of entering the CFPE program. Candidates, who successfully pass the examination, will then enter the practicum phase. Candidates, who do not pass the examination, have 90 days from notification to submit a retest examination request, a retest fee, and retake the examination.
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FIRE PLAN EXAMINER
•Practicum - Complete the CFPE program by submitting all practicum materials to NFPA within 6 months of passing the examination. In the case of those working with a partnering agency, please submit practicum verification forms to the program administrator.
REFERENCE MATERIALS
It is the candidate’s responsibility to obtain materials needed for study purposes and to have present during the examination. The following list contains the resources to be used in preparing for and taking the examination. All items in the examination are compatible with both code sets. Please verify which set you require, with your jurisdiction or certification partnership agency.
2012 NFPA Code Set:
•NFPA 1, 2012 Ed. Fire Code
•NFPA 13, 2010 Ed. Installation of Sprinkler Systems
•NFPA 72, 2010 Ed. National Fire Alarm Code®
•NFPA 101®, 2012 Ed. Life Safety Code®
2015 NFPA Code Set:
•NFPA 1, 2015 Ed. Fire Code
•NFPA 13, 2013 Ed. Installation of Sprinkler Systems
•NFPA 72, 2013 Ed. National Fire Alarm Code®
•NFPA 101®, 2015 Ed. Life Safety Code®
These NFPA CFPE reference materials have been conveniently packaged into two reference sets and are available for individuals registering for the exam to purchase at a special price. Refer to the CFPE application form to order your reference materials, and be sure to indicate which set you would like on your order form.
EXAM PREPARATION
The NFPA fire plan examiner examination is based on the job performance requirements for the fire plan examiner level I as defined in Chapter 7 of NFPA 1031, Standard for Professional Qualification for Fire Inspector and Plans Examiner.
Review Reference Materials - It is not necessary to memorize the references, but it is important to know what content is found in each of the referenced NFPA documents. For example, NFPA 101 covers egress requirements among other topics. Know the general format of the NFPA documents. Each NFPA document is laid out in the same way and divided into similar sections, beginning with administration and definitions, followed by the specific requirements in the code. Look for tables in the reference materials that summarize requirements. These tips will help you find specific information quickly during the examination.
Additional Materials - In addition to the four NFPA resources listed above, the IFSTA Fire Plans Examiner for Fire and Emergency Services Manual, is an excellent resource for study and review. Please keep in mind that their use is not allowed during the examination.
Sample Questions – The exam study guide contains 20 sample questions to help you become familiar with similar types of questions found on the examination. Answers to the sample questions can be found on the last page of this section.
Sample Question - What is the occupant load factor used for determining the required means of egress for an existing
business occupancy? |
|
(A) |
20 sq ft |
(1.9 sq m) |
(B) |
50 sq ft |
(4.6 sq m) |
(C) |
100 sq ft |
(9.3 sq m) |
(D) |
200 sq ft |
(18.6 sq m) |
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FIRE PLAN EXAMINER
Analyze the Question - This is an occupancy question.
Means of egress provisions and other occupancy questions are addressed by NFPA 101, Life Safety Code.
EXAM FORMAT
NFPA offers only a paper and pencil based version of the CFPE examination and it is only available in the United States and Canada. It is a four hour open-book examination, containing 100 multiple-choice questions. NFPA reserves the right to add a number of “field test” questions. These questions are used to improve future exams and will not impact the candidate’s score. The examination is only available in English. It is designed to evaluate the candidate’s knowledge of fire inspection principles and code application skills at the level of fire plan examiner I (as defined in NFPA 1031).
Paper and Pencil - The examination can be taken in one of two ways:
1.As directed by the NFPA program administrator via an NFPA approved proctor; usually a fire department training director, or at a university or college-testing center where a fee may be charged, for which the candidate is responsible.
2.Under the direction of the program administrator or a partnering agency.
The program administrator or proctor should be consulted for examination scheduling. Please allow a minimum of four weeks to schedule your examination.
EXAM RULES AND PROCEDURES
The following suggestions, regulations, and procedures pertain to every candidate taking the examination:
•You must have a valid photo ID at the test center.
•Bring three sharpened soft-lead (No. 2) pencils or mechanical pencils and a good eraser. Pencils and erasers will not be furnished at the center.
•You are permitted to use a calculator during the examination. Only silent, hand-held, battery-operated (programmable or non-programmable) calculators, without paper-tape printing capabilities, can be used. Smart phone usage is not permitted during the test. Calculator malfunction during a test does not constitute grounds for challenging test scores or requesting additional testing time.
•Bring a watch. You will not be permitted to continue the test beyond the established four-hour time limit.
•You should bring only those approved NFPA reference materials that were identified in this handbook. All materials taken into the test center must be published and copyrighted and are subject to review by the test center proctor. No handwritten materials will be allowed, including notes within the reference material. The IFSTA manual, The Fire Protection Handbook, and the NFPA Fire and Life Safety Inspection Manual are not allowed at the examination.
•Electronic versions of the reference materials are not permitted to be used at the test site.
•Visitors are not permitted at the test center.
•You may highlight references within your NFPA code books, however notes are not permitted within the code books used during the examination. You may do scratch work only in the margins of the test book. Scratch paper is not permitted. Do not write on, mark in or tab the pages of your reference code books during the examination. Failure to comply will be grounds for dismissal from the test site.
•If you wish to leave the room during the test, you must secure the proctor’s permission. You will not be allowed to make up lost time.
•Smoking, phones, and pagers are not permitted in the testing area.
•Candidates may provide comments on exam items. All comments will be reviewed by NFPA certification staff. Candidates will not receive responses to their comments.
FAILURE TO APPEAR FOR EXAM
No application fees will be refunded if you fail to appear on your registered examination date. See Cancellation and Rescheduling Exceptions below.
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FIRE PLAN EXAMINER
EXAM CANCELATION
If you must cancel your exam and you have no plan to reschedule that exam for another date, you may be eligible for a partial refund of your application fee. In this situation, you must contact the NFPA certification administrative office (in writing) at least seven (7) business days (U.S. New York time) prior to your previously scheduled examination date. All refund requests must be made in writing and you will be assessed a $50.00 USD non-refundable administrative fee. You will forfeit your entire application fee if you fail to contact the NFPA certification administrative office at least seven (7) business days (U.S. New York time) prior to your previously scheduled examination date. See Cancellation and Rescheduling Exceptions.
EXAM RESCHEDULING
You may reschedule your paper-based examination for a different date by notifying the NFPA certification administrative office (in writing) at least seven (7) business days (U.S. New York time) prior to your previously scheduled examination date. All requests must be made in writing and you will be assessed a $50.00 USD non- refundable rescheduling fee. You will forfeit your entire application fee if you fail to contact the NFPA certification administrative office to reschedule your examination at least seven (7) business days (U.S. New York time) prior to your previously scheduled examination date. See Cancellation and Rescheduling Exceptions.
CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING EXCEPTIONS
NFPA may waive the rescheduling fee or cancellation penalties in the event of one of the following emergency or special circumstances:
•Jury duty
•Death of an immediate family member
•Military deployment
•Serious illness or injury
If you experience any of the above, you must provide relevant documentation (doctor’s note, military orders, death certificate or obituary, jury summons, etc.) to the NFPA Certification Department (and ISO Quality Testing if you scheduled a computer-based test through them) before you will be allowed to reschedule your exam.
EXAMINATION SECURITY
Failure to follow candidate instructions regarding examination security will result in your application being voided and forfeiture of your application fee. Conduct that results in violation of examination security or disrupts the administration of the examination could result in cancellation of your examination and dismissal from the testing center. In addition, your examination will be considered void and will not be scored. Examples of misconduct include, but are not limited to, the following: writing on anything other than the margins of your test booklet, looking at another candidate's examination, or talking with other candidates anytime during the entire examination period. You are particularly cautioned not to do so after you have completed the examination, as other candidates in the area might be taking a break and still have not completed the examination.
You may not attend the examination only to review or audit test materials. You may not copy any portion of the examination for any reason. No examination information may leave the test room under any circumstances. This includes memorizing questions for distribution to any other person. No unauthorized persons will be admitted into the testing area. It is very important for you to note all examination content is strictly confidential. You may only communicate about the test, or questions on the test, using the appropriate forms provided within the examination delivery system. At no other time, before, during or after the examination, may you communicate orally, electronically or in writing with any person or entity about the content of the examination or individual examination questions.
NFPA shall have the right to revoke or invalidate any examination score with or without a finding of fault or misconduct if data forensic analysis or other credible evidence establishes a reasonable possibility that a score is not valid or the integrity or security of the examination was compromised.
