NFPA 110 Acceptance Testing: Proving Your EPSS Compliance

Chapter 7 of the National Fire Protection Association Standard 110 (NFPA 110), entitled “Installation and Environmental Considerations,” provides minimum installation requirements for backup power systems in critical applications. It applies to new and existing Emergency Power Supply Systems (EPSS), providing certain minimum standards recognized as essential for successful EPSS operation where a power outage would create a life safety risk.

But your EPSS is not automatically considered compliant upon installation. Once the EPSS is installed, it must be tested to ensure it conforms to power output and functional requirements.

Chapter 7 outlines a series of on-site acceptance tests necessary to prove that the system will perform as required. It is the responsibility of the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) to provide final approval of the EPSS. Be sure to check with the AHJ early and notify them of the test date in case they want to be present for the tests.

NFPA 110 acceptance testing is performed on the installed EPSS – and its emergency power supply or supplies (EPS) – and encompasses the below tests:

• On-site Installation Acceptance Test. This series of steps, conducted as one test, begins by transferring a load from a normal power source to the EPSS from a cold start, as if there were an emergency power outage. The simulated power failure test verifies that the EPSS can pick up the emergency loads within the time required. [Sections 7.13.4.1.1 through 7.13.4.1.4]
• Full Load Test: Conducted after completion of the simulated power failure test, and after the engine is allowed to cool for at least five minutes, this two-hour full load test is designed to ensure that the EPSS can generate the power reflected in its rating. [Sections 7.13.4.3 through 7.13.4.3.5]
• Cycle Crank Test: This series of crank and rest cycle tests uses any method recommended by the manufacturer. [Sections 7.13.4.4 through 7.13.4.4.3]
• Safety Indications and Shutdowns Test: Control functions, remote controls and alarms are tested as recommended by the manufacturer. [Section 7.13.4.5]
• Factory Acceptance Testing: AHJ inspects a set of required letters and certifications. [Section 7.13.4.6]

After passing the tests, your EPSS will be warranted and commissioned by the AHJ for use as an emergency power system.

We invite you to read more about NFPA 110 acceptance testing on our website. Or contact us to connect with our team of experts who can guide the design, installation, operation, testing and maintenance of your power generation system.