Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

Which of the following requirements is NOT true regarding the location of smoke detectors in a one or two family dwelling?

1. In the vicinity of bedrooms

2. In all bedrooms

3. In all basements and habitable attics

4. In uninhabited attics

The correct answer is: In uninhabited attics

The requirement that smoke detectors must be installed in uninhabited attics is not true because the regulations focus on areas where people sleep and spend significant amounts of time. Smoke detectors are critical for providing early warning in case of a fire, particularly in locations close to where people sleep, such as in bedrooms and the vicinity of bedrooms, since this increases the likelihood of alerting occupants in time for them to escape. Additionally, smoke detectors are required in all basements and habitable attics since these areas can pose fire hazards and are sometimes occupied. However, uninhabited attics are not considered a priority for smoke detector installation because they do not serve as living spaces where occupants would need immediate alerts to evacuate. Therefore, the emphasis is placed on locations where the presence of smoke detectors will be most effective in protecting lives.