Browse all practice questions for the ESA Certified Alarm Technician Practice Exam. Search by topic, open any question and review its full explanation, then test yourself in the practice quiz.

ESA Certified Alarm Technician Practice Exam course image
Avoiding System Failures: The Importance of Proper Wiring SplicingWhat is a consequence of improper splicing in wiring?Battery Basics: What Voltage Do Alarm Systems Favor?The majority of batteries used in the alarm industry are typically rated at what voltage?Building Strong Customer Relationships: A Technician's GuideWhat are the three key stages in which opportunities exist to build a customer relationship?Building Trust: Presenting Credentials During InstallationDuring which opportunity timeframe should you present your customer with credentials and be polite?Choosing the Right Wire for High-Sensitivity Detection CircuitsWhich wire type would be inappropriate for high-sensitivity detection circuits?Critical Actions You Must Take After Installing an Alarm SystemWhat is one critical action during post-install procedures?Decibel Levels in Commercial Sound Devices—Why 75 dB MattersWhat is the minimum decibel level for all commercial sounding devices measured at 10 feet?Decoding Ceiling Mount Smoke Detector PlacementCeiling mount smoke detectors should be installed at least how many inches away from the tips of ceiling fan blades?Decoding Digital Communicators: Standalone vs. IntegratedWhich are the two types of digital communicators?Decoding the 'Kiss-off' Signal in Alarm CommunicationIn terms of alarm communication, what does 'Kiss-off' indicate?Demystifying Ground Loops: What Every Alarm Technician Should KnowWhat does the term "ground loop" refer to in a wiring context?Discover when current is likely to be induced in a lineWhen is current more likely to be induced on a line?Enhancing Alarm Verification: A Key to Reducing False AlarmsBy what percentage has enhanced call verification been shown to reduce false alarms?Essential Tools Every Alarm Technician Should KnowWhat tool is essential for testing continuity in a circuit?Explore the Impact of International Standards on Global TradeWhat type of standard is typically used to enhance trade?Finalize Your Alarm System Installation the Right WayWhat is the final step you must complete before leaving the work site after installing a system?Finding the Perfect Sound Level for Your Alarm SystemWhich sound level is considered optimal for alert signaling in alarm systems?How Customer Training Can Slash False AlarmsWhich approach helps to prevent false alarms effectively?How Series Connections Affect Voltage in Alarm SystemsIn a series connection, how is voltage affected?How to Tame False Alarms with Pet AlleysIn order to reduce false alarms caused by pets, which approach can be utilized?Master Remote Home Management with Lifestyle Convenience SystemsWhich of the following is used for remote management of home features?Mastering Building Codes for Safety in ConstructionWhich of these is used primarily to ensure safety and proper use of design in building construction?Mastering Communication Methods for Digital TechniciansWhich of the following communication methods can digital communicators use to transmit information?Mastering Conductor Sizing: The 20% Rule ExplainedHow is conductor size determined according to load?Mastering Detector Placement for Safety and ComplianceNo portion of a detector may be located within _________ of the side wall if ceiling mounted?Mastering Milliamps: Your Guide to Converting Milliamps to AmpsWhat process would you use to convert milliamps to amps?Mastering OSHA's Role in Workplace Safety for TechniciansWhat is OSHA responsible for managing?Mastering PIR Sensor Placement for Alarm SystemsTo minimize false alarms, a PIR should be aimed in what direction?Mastering RG 59-U Cable: Your Guide to Optimal InstallationWhat is the maximum recommended distance for installing RG 59-U cable?Mastering the Alarm Technician Installation ProceduresWhich of the following is NOT commonly included in installation procedures?Mastering the Clearing of Trouble Signals in Alarm SystemsWhen clearing a trouble signal, what is generally expected to occur?Mastering the Codes: A Guide for Aspiring Alarm TechniciansWhich of the following specifies the circumstances under which a given type of device or system is required?Mastering the Essentials to Prevent False Alarms in Security SystemsWhich method can be implemented to help avoid false alarms?Mastering the Four Stages of Fire for Alarm TechniciansWhat are the four stages of fire in the correct order?Mastering the Preinstall Opportunity: What Every ESA Certified Alarm Technician Should KnowWhat should you do during the preinstall opportunity timeframe?Mastering the Ten Commandments of Wiring for Alarm TechniciansWhich rule is NOT part of the Ten Commandments of Wiring?Mastering the Walk Test: Key Steps for PIR DetectionHow many steps should be taken during a walk test for proper PIR detection?Mastering Troubleshooting for Alarm SystemsIn troubleshooting, which list includes all possible conditions for a panel check?Mastering Troubleshooting: A Technician’s Guide to Finding SolutionsWhat should a successful technician remember when troubleshooting?Mastering Video Surveillance Systems with Essential ToolsWhich tools are specifically used for Video Surveillance Systems (VSS)?Mastering Voltage: The Heart of Electrical SystemsWhat is the definition of voltage?Mastering Wire Orientation: Your Secret Weapon Against Signal InterferenceHow should wires be run to minimize interference from AC power lines?Mastering Wireless Lighting Control: What You Need to KnowWhat technology is typically used in wireless lighting control systems?Mastering Your dB Meter: The Key to Accurate Sound MeasurementsFor accurate measurements, where should a dB Meter be aimed?Monthly Testing: The Lifesaver You Didn’t Know You NeededHow often must smoke alarms be tested, according to guidelines?Mounting a PIR sensor upside down can help reduce false alarms caused by petsWhich technique can be employed to ensure that pets do not cause false alarms in security systems?Navigating the Essentials of Security System MaintenanceWhat does the term "maintenance" imply in the context of security systems?Placement Guidelines for Side Wall-Mounted Smoke DetectorsIf a smoke detector is side wall mounted, it must be positioned ______ inches below the ceiling level?Precision in Voltage Measurements: Avoiding the PitfallsFor accurate voltage measurements, which setting should you avoid?Safety First: Essential Principles for Tool Use in InstallationsWhat principle is essential for ensuring safety when using tools in installations?Sparks aren’t a direct sign of fire: understanding true fire indicators like smoke, heat, and flamesWhich of the following is NOT a sign of fire?Stay Safe: The Dangers of Grounding to Gas PipesGrounding to which of the following is a violation of code?Testing Digital Communicators: Starting Off on the Right FootWhat is the first test you should conduct when testing a digital communicator?The Driving Force Behind Electric Charge Movement: Understanding Voltage______________ is the force that causes a charge to move.The Essentials of Power Sources in Alarm SystemsWhat are the two categories of power sources used in alarm systems?The Importance of Circuit Integrity in Alarm SystemsWhat do wire breaks, bad splices, cold solder joints, and loose connections all cause?The Importance of Direct Cable Connections for Video SystemsWhat type of connection is necessary to ensure a video system functions effectively?The Key to Success: Understanding Detection in Alarm SystemsWhat term best describes the action that senses events and reports them?The Power of Standards in Team OperationsWhich statement BEST describes how standards coordinate team activity?The Truth About User Interfaces in TechnologyWhich statement about user interfaces is FALSE?The Vital Role of Two-Way Voice in Alarm SystemsWhat is the primary purpose of a two-way voice feature in alarm systems?Understanding "Listed" in Alarm TechnologyWhat does it mean if something is considered "listed"?Understanding "Shall" vs "Should": Key Terms for Alarm TechniciansWhich of the following statements is TRUE?Understanding "Shall": The Key to Mandatory Requirements in StandardsWhat describes the mandatory requirements in a standard?Understanding Acceptance in Alarm Technology StandardsWhat does it mean if something is deemed "accepted"?Understanding Access Control Systems: A Key Component for SecurityWhat type of system grants or denies entry or exit based on an individual's possession of an item, code, or physical characteristic?Understanding Access Control: The Key Components You Need to KnowWhich of the following are commonly used devices in access control?Understanding Access Control: The Role of Entry DevicesWhat component is used in access control to identify authorized individuals?Understanding Active Sensors and Their Role in Alarm TechnologyWhich of the following is NOT a type of Active Sensor?Understanding ADA Requirements for Visual Signaling DevicesWhich of the following is NOT a requirement set by the ADA for visual signaling devices?Understanding ADA Standards for Visual Signaling DevicesWhat sort of devices must be mounted to comply with ADA standards in common areas?Understanding Alarm Signals: Your Key to Security SuccessWhat type of signal indicates an alarm detected shortly after arming the system?Understanding Alarm System Wiring: What You Need to KnowWhich of the following is NOT a type of wiring used in alarm systems?Understanding Analog Video Technology: The Basics You Need to KnowWhat is defined as a series of images broken down into lines in video technology?Understanding Audible Devices for Alarm SystemsWhat type of audible device can be either polarized or non-polarized and is usually continuous vibrating?Understanding Barrier Gates: The Key to Controlled Vehicle AccessWhich device is used to make a controlled entrance for vehicles?Understanding Barrier Gates: The Key to Managing Traffic FlowWhat are primarily used to control traffic flow and not in high security areas?Understanding Burglary Patterns: Why First Floors are TargetedWhich is the most frequently used area of entry by burglars?Understanding Cable Types for Video Surveillance SystemsWhich type of cable is commonly used in video surveillance systems?Understanding Capacitors: The Silent Energy HeroesWhich of the following components can store electrical energy in an electric field?Understanding Ceiling-Mounted Detector Clearance: Why 4 Inches MattersWhat is the minimum clearance distance from the wall for ceiling-mounted detectors?Understanding Commercial Fire Alarm Systems for ESA CertificationAccording to Code, which of the following is NOT a type of commercial fire alarm system?Understanding Company Standards in Alarm System DocumentationWhat type of standards require the publishing of internal documentation on achieving detection specified by the code?Understanding Conductors: Unlocking the Secrets of Electrical FlowA material with many free electrons is called a(n) ______________.Understanding Connection Issues with Digital CommunicatorsWhich of the following is NOT a reason for a digital communicator to fail in establishing a connection?Understanding Construction Codes: What Every Alarm Technician Should KnowWhich of the following statements is true in reference to Codes?Understanding Contact Gaps in Magnetic SwitchesWhat factor determines the contact gap in magnetic switches?Understanding Current: Why Amperes Matter for Alarm TechniciansCurrent is measured in _____________.Understanding Dead Zones in PIR Sensor TechnologyWhat is the main concept behind creating a dead zone with a PIR sensor?Understanding Decibel Levels for Alarm Systems: A Key StandardWhat is the decibel level for audible devices set by UL Standard 464 measured at 10 feet?Understanding Detection Devices: Magnetic Door Contacts and Photoelectric BeamsMagnetic door contacts and photoelectric beams are classified as what type of devices?Understanding Device Placement: A Key Element in ADA ComplianceAccording to ADA requirements, where should devices be located?Understanding Dry Closure Contacts in Alarm SystemsWhat is a device that is not immediately connected to voltage called?Understanding Dry Closure Contacts in Alarm SystemsWhat type of contact closure is often used in alarm systems to indicate the status of devices?Understanding Dual Frequency Glass Break DetectorsWhich type of glass break detectors monitor frequency and amplitude?Understanding Electron Flow in Series CircuitsIn a series electrical circuit, electrons flow from the negative pole of the battery towards the positive pole in what manner?Understanding Energy Management in Lifestyle Convenience SystemsWhich of the following is a typical feature of a Lifestyle Convenience System?Understanding ESA Standards for Audible Devices: Why 30 Minutes MattersWhat is the maximum duration for which audible devices must operate according to ESA standards?Understanding ESA's Alarm Standards: Why Silence MattersAccording to ESA's Minimum Installation Standards, how long after activation must all intrusion alarm audible devices automatically silence?Understanding Exit Devices in Access Control SystemsWhich access control component typically allows exit from a secure area?Understanding False Alarms in Security SystemsWhat does "false alarm" typically refer to in security systems?Understanding Fire Detection Systems: What You Need to KnowWhich statement about a fire system is TRUE?Understanding Fire Safety Standards: Why NFPA MattersWhich agency is responsible for fire safety standards and regulations?Understanding Fire Stages for Alarm Technicians: Essential InsightsWhich of the following is NOT a stage of fire?Understanding Flush Mounted Devices in Alarm SystemsFlush mounted devices are?Understanding GFCI Outlets: Your Shield Against Electrical ShockWhat type of outlet features a small breaker as a component?Understanding Glass Break Detection: A Vital Aspect of Security SystemsWhich of the following is NOT a method of glass break detection?Understanding Ground Faults: The Role of Moisture IngressWhat condition can lead to ground faults?Understanding Heat Stroke: Symptoms and Nuances to KnowWhich condition is characterized by confusion, rapid breathing, a high pulse rate, and dry skin?Understanding Holdup, Panic, and Duress Systems: Your Safety Net in CrisisWhat type of alarm system allows a customer to follow an intruder's instructions while generating an alarm?Understanding How Transformers Work: The Principle of InductionA transformer works by the use of _________________.Understanding Induced Current in Alarm Wiring PracticesWhat does an induced current on a line typically indicate in wiring practices?Understanding Induction: The Magnetic Field Around ConductorsWhat is the term for a magnetic field setup around a conductor while current flows through it?Understanding Intrusion Alarms: What They Really IndicateWhat does an intrusion alarm typically indicate?Understanding Lifestyle Convenience Systems in Home AutomationWhat includes any device or system that controls an appliance or device in the home?Understanding Light Scattering Smoke Detectors: Your Key to Fire SafetyWhich type of photoelectric smoke detector uses reflective properties of smoke for detection?Understanding Line Seizure in Digital CommunicatorsHow does line seizure function in a digital communicator?Understanding Magnetic Reed Switches: A Key Component for Alarm TechniciansWhat type of switch encloses the working parts in a hermetically sealed tube to protect the contacts?Understanding Motion Sensors: The Unsung Heroes of Security SystemsWhich is an example of a commonly used detection device?Understanding National Standards for Design and ManufacturingWhat type of standards usually define a method of manufacture or design?Understanding NEC 725.127: Safeguarding Alarm Control PanelsWhat is the maximum amperage that can be used to protect the transformer supplying power to the alarm control panel according to NEC 725.127?Understanding NFPA 70: The Minimum Length for Ground RodsWhat does NFPA 70 article 250.118 set as the minimum length for a ground rod?Understanding Passive Infrared Sensors: Key Insights for Alarm TechniciansA passive infrared sensor primarily detects patterns of what type of energy?Understanding Passive Sensors: The Unsung Heroes of Security SystemsWhat type of sensors monitor changes in the environment?Understanding Perimeter: The Foundation of Security SystemsWhich description best defines the perimeter in security systems?Understanding Pet Alleys: The Smart Way to Position Your PIR SensorsWhat is created by mounting a PIR sensor upside down or in a way that establishes a dead zone?Understanding PIR Sensors: The Heart of Alarm TechnologyA PIR sensor is designed to detect which of the following environmental factors?Understanding PIR Sensors: The Role of Optics in Detecting EnergyWhat characteristic of a PIR sensor helps it to detect radiating energy?Understanding Power Supply Components for ESA CertificationWhich of the following is NOT a component of a power supply?Understanding Pyro-electric Sensors: What You Need to KnowWhich of the following is NOT a type of pyro-electric sensor?Understanding Residential Fire Alarm CommunicatorsWhich statement is TRUE about residential fire alarm communicators?Understanding Resistance: The Key to Mastering Electrical CircuitsThe unit of resistance is measured in __________.Understanding Resistor Ratings: The Essentials for ESA Certified TechniciansWhich of the following is NOT one of the 3 ratings used to describe resistors?Understanding Signal Strength in Digital Communication for Alarm SystemsWhat factor can hinder the ability of a digital communicator to send a message?Understanding Signaling Devices for Low-Voltage Alarm SystemsWhich signaling device is specifically designed to operate in low-voltage environments?Understanding Spot Detection in Alarm SystemsWhat type of detection focuses on a specific object?Understanding Standards in Alarm TechnologyWhat term describes a set of criteria established to guide practices and procedures in a certain field?Understanding the Abort Feature in Digital Alarm SystemsWhat feature in some digital communicators halts the transmission of an alarm signal if the alarm system is turned off?Understanding the Abort Feature in Digital Communicators for Alarm SystemsWhat happens during the 'abort' feature of a digital communicator?Understanding the Basics of PIR: Essential Knowledge for Alarm TechniciansWhich list accurately describes the four basic parts of a PIR?Understanding the Benefits of Dual Element Stacking in Quad Element PIR SensorsThe stacking of one dual element on top of another in a Quad Element PIR primarily allows for what benefit?Understanding the Bypass Action in Security SystemsWhat action is described by setting a particular zone in a system to be inactive while the rest remains active?Understanding the Characteristics of Photoelectric Smoke DetectorsWhat characteristic defines a photoelectric smoke detector?Understanding the Connection: Ohm's Law and Electrical MeasurementsWhich measurement is NOT derived from Ohm's Law?Understanding the Difference Between Passive and Active Sensors in Alarm SystemsIn what way do passive sensors operate differently from active sensors?Understanding the Essential Role of Personal Emergency Response SystemsWhat is one of the primary purposes of a personal emergency response system?Understanding the Essentials for Electrical Current FlowWhat is essential for the flow of electrical current?Understanding the Essentials of a Good Ground for Alarm SystemsWhat is considered a good ground?Understanding the Essentials of VSS CamerasWhich of the following is NOT a feature of a VSS camera?Understanding the Flame Stage of Fire: What Alarm Technicians Need to KnowWhich stage of fire exhibits a detectable rise in heat?Understanding the Impact of PIR Sensor Optics on Detection PatternsThe pattern detected by a PIR sensor is influenced by what aspect of its design?Understanding the Importance of Fire Alarm System DifferentiationWhy are fire alarm systems designed to differentiate between authorized tests and actual fires?Understanding the Importance of PIR Sensor Optics in Alarm SystemsThe effectiveness of a PIR sensor in detecting patterns is directly impacted by what feature?Understanding the Importance of Xenon Strobe Lights under the ADAWho mandated the provision of a Xenon type strobe in public areas?Understanding the Key Role of OSHA Regulations in Electrical SafetyWhich safety standard is vital in preventing electrical hazards in workplaces?Understanding the Kiss-Off Tone: Key to Alarm System CommunicationWhat term describes a tone signal generated to a digital communicator by a central station receiver indicating successful transmission receipt?Understanding the Lineman's Test Set: Essential Tools for Alarm TechniciansWhat is the primary purpose of a Lineman's test set?Understanding the Magnetic Field: AC Flow Through a CoilWhat is produced when an alternating current flows through a coil of wire?Understanding the Main Problem Behind False AlarmsWhat is identified as the main problem leading to false alarms?Understanding the Objectives of an Intrusion Detection SystemWhich of the following is a common objective of an Intrusion Detection System?Understanding the Role of AC in Electrical TransformersElectrical transformers only function with which type of current?Understanding the Role of Authorities in Alarm System ComplianceWho is responsible for ensuring that alarm systems are installed in compliance with existing codes?Understanding the Role of CAT 5e Cable in NetworkingWhat is the primary use of CAT 5e cable?Understanding the Role of Clamp Meters in Measuring Electrical CurrentWhich meter is commonly used to measure current?Understanding the Role of Optics in PIR SensorsThe pattern that a PIR sees is determined by the properties of which component?Understanding the Role of Pet Immunity in PIR SensorsHow does pet immunity contribute to the functionality of PIR sensors?Understanding the Role of the National Electric Code in Alarm SystemsWhich code governs all wiring in alarm systems?Understanding the Role of Underwriters Laboratories in Safety StandardsWhat organization develops standards and tests submitted equipment against these standards?Understanding the Subclassifications of BurglaryWhich options are sub classifications of burglary?Understanding the True Purpose of Alarms in Safety MeasuresAlarms are designed to achieve which of the following objectives?Understanding the Types of Gates in Security SystemsWhich of the following is NOT one of the main types of gates?Understanding the Versatility of PIR DetectorsAre PIR detectors limited to wall mounting only?Understanding the Weakest Link in Video Surveillance SystemsWhat concept should you remember when building a video surveillance system?Understanding the Wiring Behind Alarm SystemsWhat is the most common type of wiring used for alarm systems?Understanding Thermal Stress and Heat Stroke: Safety First!What type of hazard is associated with heat stroke?Understanding Total Resistance in Series CircuitsIf two resistors are connected in series, what happens to the total resistance?Understanding Trouble Signals in Fire Alarm SystemsWhat should happen when a device is removed from the wiring in a fire alarm system?Understanding Two-Way Voice Technology in Alarm SystemsWhat feature allows the operator to listen to the alarm site and communicate with the occupant?Understanding Ultrasonic Detectors in Building AutomationWhat type of detectors are commonly used in building automation and distance measuring devices?Understanding User Interfaces: More Than Just Standalone DevicesWhich statement about user interfaces is FALSE?Understanding Varifocal Lenses: The Versatile Choice for Your Visual NeedsWhat type of lens can change focal lengths within a set range?Understanding Video Surveillance Technology for ESA CertificationHow many types of technologies are generally used in video surveillance?Understanding VoIP for Alarm TechniciansWhat is VoIP?Understanding Volumetric Detection in Security SystemsWhat type of detection provides a wide or broad coverage in a defined area?Understanding Wet Output Devices in Alarm SystemsWhat is defined as an output that uses power from the panel for an external device?Understanding why images in video technology are built from squares called pixelsWhat term refers to images made up of squares or rectangles in video technology?Understanding Wire Gauge for ESA Certified Alarm SystemsWhat is the minimum wire gauge recommended by ESA for detection circuits?Unlocking the Power of Camera Analyzers for Signal VerificationWhich electronic tool can provide visual verification of a signal?Unlocking the Power of Quad Element PIR Sensors for Enhanced SecurityWhat does the Quad Element PIR improve upon in the Dual Element concept?Unlocking the Secrets of Digital Communicators in Residential Alarm SystemsWhich component is essential for a digital communicator's operation in residential systems?What causes resistance in a circuit and how it affects alarm system wiringWhich of the following is a cause of resistance in a circuit?What Every Alarm Technician Should Bring to the JobWhich item should always be brought on an installation or service call?Where smoke detectors belong relative to sleeping areas according to safety codesWhere does the code require that a smoke detector be located in relation to sleeping areas?Where to Attach a Bonding Jumper for Electrical SafetyWhere would you typically attach a bonding jumper?Where to Install Smoke Detectors in Your Home: A Key Safety GuideAccording to NFPA 72, where should smoke detectors be installed in a residential setting?Why Coaxial Cable is a Game-Changer in Signal TransmissionWhat is the main advantage of coaxial cable?Why Corner Placement Is Key for Piezoelectric Shock SensorsWhen mounting piezoelectric shock sensors on glass, they should be placed?Why Dead Zones Matter in Alarm System DesignBy utilizing a dead zone, what is the primary goal for alarm system designers?Why Does Resistance Increase with Temperature in Conductors?What happens to resistance if the temperature of a conductor increases?Why Every Technician Needs a Multimeter in Their ToolboxWhich tool is regarded as the most important for a technician in troubleshooting?Why High Temperatures Spell Trouble for Battery LifeHigh temperatures tend to do what to battery life?Why Image Degradation is a Big Deal in Analog Video SystemsWhat is the key drawback of using analog video?Why Installing Your Smoke Detector 12 Inches High is a Game ChangerAt what height above the floor must a smoke detector be installed in sleeping areas?Why Mounting Your PIR Sensor Correctly MattersChoosing not to mount the PIR sensor upside down will most likely result in what?Why Personal Emergency Response Systems Are Vital for Seniors and the DisabledElderly people and disabled people who live alone commonly have what type of system for emergencies?Why Pressure Mats Are Still Relevant in Modern Security SystemsWhat type of mat can address specific intrusion challenges, even though it's considered old technology?Why strobe colors vary by function in alarm systems and what it meansWhat color must a strobe be based on its function?Why Twisted Pair Wire is the Go-To Choice for TechniciansWhich type of wire is known for offering a low cost and highly reliable transmission method?Why Zigbee is the Go-To for Low-Cost Wireless NetworksWhat wireless technology was developed to address the needs of low-cost, low-power wireless mesh networks?
More practice questions

These questions are part of the practice quiz. Start practicing

  • What group of access control components do proximity readers, biometric readers, magstrip readers, and keypad devices identify?
  • Which of the following is an example of an insulating material?
  • What agency is permitted to modify or supplement the published requirements?
  • Which cable category is the most widely installed?
  • What should never be shared unless specifically indicated by the manufacturer's instructions?
  • What function do detection devices primarily serve?
  • Three-dimensional, rectangular shaped devices designed to be installed with fasteners or adhesive to the surface of a door or window are called?
  • In a fire alarm system, what is the minimum size of cabling that is acceptable?
  • Which of the following is NOT a step in measuring voltage?
  • Normally Open switches are used for what type of circuits?
  • Which system uses the existing electrical wiring at a premise to transmit data between components?
  • What are common causes of short circuits? (Choose all that apply)
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy