According to NFPA 14, what is the maximum height for a fire department connection above the ground level?

The correct answer is based on the NFPA 14 standard, which provides guidelines for fire protection systems, specifically regarding standpipe systems and their connections. NFPA 14 specifies that the maximum height for a fire department connection, measured from the ground level to the top of the connection, should not exceed 48 inches. This height restriction is crucial for ensuring that fire service personnel can easily connect hoses to the fire department connections without unnecessary strain or difficulty, especially in emergency situations where time is critical.

By limiting the height to 48 inches, the standard takes into account the practicality of accessibility while maintaining safety for firefighters. This regulation ensures that the fire department connection remains within a reasonable range for effective operation and is designed to accommodate various fire apparatus configurations.

The other height options exceed this standard, making them impractical for use in emergency scenarios where quick access is vital. This underscores the importance of adherence to NFPA 14 guidelines in designing fire protection systems.