NICET Inspection and Testing of Water Based Systems- Level 2

The Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems certification program is for engineering technicians engaged in the inspection and testing of existing water-based fire protection systems, including identifying and addressing emergency and pre-planned impairments. Level II is for technicians who perform routine inspection and testing tasks under limited supervision.

The Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems exam is delivered on a computer at Pearson Vue Testing Centers. 

Candidate Bulletin

Examination Content Outline:

• 2.1 Safety (Questions related to these tasks make up 5-15% of the exam.) 
  • 2.1.1 Implement proper use and maintenance of required PPE.
  • 2.1.2  Implement lockout/tagout.
  • 2.1.3  Address work hazards and implement procedures (e.g., confined spaces, holes, lighting, ceilings, ladders, and lifts).
  • 2.1.4 Ensure ladder safety and proper use.
  • 2.1.5 Verify correct tools and equipment are used and maintained.
  • 2.1.6 Implement safety impairment procedures. 
    
• 2.2 Communication (Questions related to these tasks make up 5-15% of the exam.) 
  • 2.2.1 Coordinate with customers (e.g., pre-inspection reviews, review scope of work, and notifications).
  • 2.2.2 Verify that alarm companies, owner, and AHJs are contacted for testing/ maintenance purposes. 
  • 2.2.3 Document results/findings of ITM tasks to the customer/applicable party. 
    
• 2.3 Perform, Document, and Interpret Intermediate ITM Tasks (Questions related to these tasks make up 30-40% of the exam.) 
  
  • 2.3.1 Perform ITM tasks for dry systems (e.g., QODs, air compressors, nitrogen generators, and air maintenance devices).
  • 2.3.2 Perform ITM tasks for wet systems (including antifreeze systems and automatic air vents).
  • 2.3.3 Perform ITM tasks for standpipe systems.
  • 2.3.4 Identify and classify ITM deficiencies and impairment handling (critical, non-critical, and impaired) 
• 2.4 Perform, Document, and Interpret ITM Tasks for Water Supplies (Questions related to these tasks make up 25-35% of the exam.) 
  • 2.4.1 Perform ITM tasks for fire pump systems. 
  • 2.4.2 Perform ITM tasks for private fire service mains.
  • 2.4.3 Perform ITM tasks for water storage tanks.

• 2.5 Internal Obstruction Investigation (Questions related to these tasks make up 10-20% of the exam.) 
  • 2.5.1 Determine the need for obstruction investigations and prevention. 
  • 2.5.2 Perform assessments of the internal conditions of piping (including documenting). 

Approved References:

1. NFPA 20, 2022 Ed.
2. NFPA 25, 2023 Ed.
3. NFPA 72, 2022 Ed.
4. NFPA 291, 2022 Ed.

*The test questions are based on the standard editions listed above; therefore, candidates are strongly urged to bring these editions to the exam. Note: Candidates may bring older or newer editions—instead of the editions listed above—at their own risk. 

Note: An NFPA Handbook will NOT be accepted as a substitute for any of the titles listed above. 

In addition to the references listed above, the following publications can provide some of the job knowledge required by a water-based systems layout technician. While these books may help you prepare for the exam, they are NOT permitted in the test center. 

1. NFPA 13 (2022): Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
2. OSHA 29 CFR 1910: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
3. OSHA 29 CFR 1926: Safety and Health Regulations for Construction

For more information on the certification program, please refer to NICET.ORG

Exam Pros Package Options Available:

• Complete Book Set for the Inspection and Testing of Water Based Systems- Level 1 exam
  
• Pre-printed Tabs to easily find important code sections during the exam
  
• Online Home Study Course – Learn at your own pace with full support. 
  • Over 500 practice questions organized by book. 
  • Practice Final Exams with questions, answers, page numbers, and solutions. 
  • How-to videos for taking the exam, using Pearson VUE systems, and study strategies.
    
  • Highlighting & tabbing instructions for your books.
    
• Direct Instructor Support via Phone, Text, WhatsApp, Zoom, Facetime, or Email
  

Note: "Pre-printed tabs" are only for the 2 approved references. If you purchase "New Books with Suggested Study + Pre-printed Tabs" the tabs are only for the Reference Books that are allowed in the examination center. Please call +1 (954) 908-7010 if you want to purchase suggested study books highlighted and tabbed. Highlighted and tabbed books ordered out of the state of Florida may take up to 5-7 business days to be shipped.

Page Updated 4/01/2026