Which standpipe class is described as providing a 1½-inch hose for building occupants and is prohibited in DOD facilities?

• A. Class I
• B. Class II
• C. Class III
• D. Class IV

Answer: (B)

Standpipe systems are designed with different user needs in mind. The class that provides a 1½-inch hose for building occupants is the one intended for initial, limited suppression by people inside the building. This type uses readily accessible 1.5-inch handlines stored in cabinets on each floor, allowing occupants to start fighting a small fire before firefighters arrive. That’s why it’s described as an occupant-use system.

However, in many standards and in DOD facilities specifically, this class is prohibited because relying on untrained building occupants to operate a hose can lead to safety risks, inadequate water delivery, or interference with firefighting operations. Instead, DOD facilities favor systems designed for firefighter use (2.5-inch outlets) or a combination approach that maintains firefighter control and higher flow where needed.

So the description matches the occupant-use standpipe class, which is why that option is the best fit.