Special Effects Technician Practice Exam

FDNY E-05 Certificate of Fitness for Special Effects Technician Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary responsibility of a Special Effects Technician?
• Acting as a firewatch only
• Supervising actors during stunts
• Handling, preparing, and discharging pyrotechnic and special

effects safely

• Designing stage sets

Rationale: The technician’s main role is to ensure all pyrotechnic and

special effects are executed safely, in compliance with regulations.

• Which type of fire extinguisher is most appropriate for a small

electrical fire on set? 1 / 4

• Water

B) CO2

• Foam
• Wet chemical

Rationale: CO2 extinguishers are effective for electrical fires as they do not

conduct electricity or leave residue.

3. Before using pyrotechnics on a film set, the technician must:

• Check only the props list
• Obtain all required permits from FDNY and conduct a site

inspection

• Notify the actors
• Only notify the director

Rationale: FDNY regulations require proper permitting and inspection prior

to using special effects.

• Which NFPA code primarily governs theatrical and entertainment

pyrotechnics?

A) NFPA 13

B) NFPA 70

C) NFPA 1126

D) NFPA 72

Rationale: NFPA 1126 specifically addresses the use of pyrotechnics in

entertainment settings. 2 / 4

• The minimum distance for firing a pyrotechnic flash effect near actors

is:

• 2 feet
• 5 feet
• 10 feet
• 20 feet

Rationale: NFPA 1126 requires minimum distances for safety between

pyrotechnics and performers.

• What is the most important consideration when storing explosive

materials on a set?

• Accessibility
• Temperature only
• Segregation from heat sources, sparks, and unauthorized

personnel

• Close proximity to set pieces

Rationale: Safety storage requires isolation from ignition sources and

controlled access.

• When must a firewatch be posted during special effects operations?
• Only when fireworks are fired outdoors
• Whenever pyrotechnics or open flame devices are in use
• After filming ends
• Only during rehearsal 3 / 4

Rationale: Firewatch personnel must be present anytime there is an

immediate fire hazard from pyrotechnics or flames.

• Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory for handling

pyrotechnic powders?

• Shorts and T-shirt
• Safety goggles, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing
• Apron only
• Dust mask only

Rationale: Proper PPE protects the technician from burns, sparks, and

powder inhalation.

• How should damaged or deteriorated pyrotechnic devices be

handled?

• Use them anyway
• Dispose of according to FDNY regulations
• Store them for future use
• Wash them and reuse

Rationale: Safety protocols require proper disposal to prevent accidental

ignition.

• Which signal is typically used to communicate “cease firing”

during a pyrotechnics sequence?

• Handwave
• Audible horn or whistle
• / 4