Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License (CSL) Practice Test

What UL standards must smoke detectors in a single-family dwelling conform to?

1. 117 or 268

2. 217 or 268

3. 117 or 217

4. 119 or 300

The correct answer is: 217 or 268

Smoke detectors installed in single-family dwellings must conform to specific Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards to ensure reliability and safety. The correct answer references UL 217, which is the standard for smoke alarms intended for residential use. This standard covers the performance requirements, environmental considerations, and testing methods to ensure that smoke detectors operate effectively and are suitable for installation in homes. Additionally, UL 268 is the standard for smoke detectors for duct applications. While it primarily pertains to detectors installed in HVAC systems to prevent smoke from circulating throughout the building, its reference in the context indicates that detectors should meet required safety and performance benchmarks for various applications. The inclusion of these specific UL standards ensures that smoke detectors provide early warning in the event of fire, which is critical for the safety of occupants in a dwelling. Knowing and adhering to these standards is part of a construction supervisor’s responsibilities to ensure compliance and safety in residential buildings.