(a) This Act shall not apply to an officer or employee of this State or the fire department or fire protection district of any political subdivision of this State while such officer or employee is engaged in the performance of his or her official duties within the course and scope of his or her employment with this State, or any political subdivision. However, any such person who offers his or her services as a private fire equipment distributor or employee, or any title where similar services are performed for compensation, fee, or other valuable consideration, whether received directly or indirectly, shall be subject to this Act and its licensing requirements.
     (b) Any person who engages in hydrostatic testing of fire equipment but does not service, recharge, install, maintain, or inspect such equipment shall not be required to be licensed under this Act.