NFPA 110 Requirements: An Instrument for Evaluating Backup Systems

NFPA 110 is a guideline for emergency systems and standby electrical supplies. These requirements are used to develop local safety regulations. Service technicians follow NFPA 110 requirements to provide safer installation and maintenance. It is one of many codes set by the National Fire Protection Association, created for enhanced building safety. Critical environments such as hospitals are required to have a backup power source in place. These are called Level 1 units and are necessary for any building where the welfare of individuals relies on electrical power. Any other environment will have what is referred to as a Level 2 unit.

Generator classification determines the frequency and amount of maintenance that should be performed at regular intervals. Testing assists technicians in diagnosing your system components. Equipment evaluations are a precautionary approach to maintaining your backup electrical supply equipment.

Emergency Power Equipment Testing: What to Expect During Servicing?

Emergency power equipment testing has one drawback to owners. You should expect possible failure during this process. They occur because the equipment is operated under specific testing conditions. Failures are most common when any type of electrical or mechanical equipment is in operation. You will benefit more if a failure occurs while professionals are evaluating the system because its functionality is the focus. Normal power is still available during the testing procedures. A short failure at this time can be handled appropriately, as opposed to waiting for it to occur during an actual outage. Mechanical issues would otherwise be present at the worst possible time. Professionals can detect them in a controlled environment and make the repairs before backup power is a necessity.

Typical emergency power equipment testing processes involve load bank testing, in addition to specific tests for individual system components. Load bank procedures allow a technician to test the generator under normal outage conditions and at a sufficient capacity. Below capacity operation causes wet stacking or unburned fuel accumulation in a diesel generator.  Automatic transfer switches must also be checked for proper operation. This switch is used to change supplied power from the main source to the backup system and vice versa.

A monthly test should be run so you may see this component in action. If the switch fails, repairs are necessary to restore component dependability. Circuit breaker testing is another portion of NFPA 110 requirements. Breakers are designed to interrupt regular current in the event of a problem. They are a failsafe set up to protect the electrical system as a whole. Contacts may need to be cleaned, adjusted, and checked for proper current ratios. Multiple tests can be implemented to make certain all components are ready for operation.

Prime Power expert technicians have advanced equipment for these tests. Within a short period of time, they can check specific components or scan the entire system to learn of any developing or current issues. Once the results have been evaluated, our professionals will schedule any needed repairs. They can also assist in developing a fitting maintenance plan for your system. Testing and maintenance keep your generators in good working order. Call or visit our website today to obtain further information on all the services we offer.