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NFPA 110: Standby Generator Standards You Should Know

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 110 provides standards of safety for emergency and standby power systems. The NFPA 110 details performance requirements for emergency power systems used in buildings when the main electrical source fails, including standby generator standards. The most recent version of the NFPA 110 was published in 2016.

Standby Generator Standards and Code Basics

The text of the code clarifies requirements for working with standby generators and other temporary power sources.

• The standard covers:
  • Classification of Emergency Power Supply Systems (EPSS)
  • Energy Sources, Converters, and Accessories
  • Fuel and Fuel Systems Maintenance Standards
  • Transfer Switch Equipment
  • Installation and Environmental Considerations
• Routine Maintenance and Operational Testing of emergency power supply systems (EPSS) are explained.
• Also included is a section of explanatory material (Annex A) detailing EPS systems
  • Included in this annex is a testing schedule and a maintenance schedule

Portable Generators: What Every Electrical Worker Should Know

• Emergency power generators should be stored on ground level. Try not to stack things on or around the unit, making it difficult to access in time of need.
• Keep the area around your unit clean. Grease, dust, moisture, and other contaminates can clog up your alternator and ruin your equipment. Store generator with a plastic cover.
• Clean your generator twice a year. During the process, connect all equipment and accessories to confirm they are still in working order. Give special attention to sparks plugs and bolts.
• Keep an eye open for corrosion, loose wires, sticky buttons, or other signs of potential malfunction. Repair any loose or frayed wiring.
• If your generator relies on batteries, change them every 2 to 3 years. Keep a charged set nearby.
• Remove all unused fuel and clean your equipment before storing gas-powered systems. Old oil can block the fuel filter and prevent the unit from functioning.
• Check battery water levels during routine inspections.
• Change oil lubricant and filters once per year, whether the unit has been used or not.
• For air-cooled machines, replace the oil after 30-40 hours of use. Replace oil in liquid-cooled machines after 100 hours of use.
• Check automatic voltage regulator once or twice per year.
• Start the unit once at least quarterly, or more often as needed.
• Keep a written record of generator maintenance and servicing. Include dates and technician names.

The Importance of Maintenance for Industrial Generators

A functioning and properly maintained emergency generator can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disaster. Hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities rely on generators to protect the health of their most vulnerable patients. Just like homeowners, your industrial operation uses standby power units to protect property and investments during a power failure. Consistent generator maintenance reduces equipment costs, product loss or spoilage, and exorbitant emergency repairs.

The moment of a power failure is a horrible time to realize your unit is damaged due to neglect or disuse. A regular maintenance routine allows you to spot and correct issues before they become big problems. Regular maintenance, along with written service records, keeps you aware of your equipment’s condition, so you can replace unrepairable parts before your next power failure.

Routine checks and maintenance ensure your backup and emergency power sources are ready when needed. Get familiar with the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule for your unit.

Our course will provide you with the needed information to operate and maintain your emergency standby equipment.

The Benefits of NFPA Training

The NFPA 110 is designed to reduce the threat to life and property when using standby and emergency power sources. The code is updated frequently to reflect new discoveries, safety standards, and trends in manufacturing and usage. NTT Training Inc. offers electrical safety training seminars to help organizations safely maintain their equipment. Get all the information you need on the latest changes and code requirements, so you can guarantee consistent OSHA compliance. Contact us for more information on our convenient and educational seminars.

For more information about National Technology Transfer or any of our programs click here: http://www.nttinc.com or http://www.nttinc.com/seminar-list-catalog/.