10 Critical Requirements of NFPA 110 You Need to Know Now

Emergency generators are vital to maintaining operations during power outages, especially in critical facilities. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 110 Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems provides detailed guidelines to ensure these systems function as expected during emergencies.

At Weld Power, we understand the importance of compliance with NFPA 110 to maintain reliable emergency power. This article highlights some key points from the NFPA 110 and how our services can help you achieve compliance.

Key Requirements from NFPA 110

1. Routine Maintenance and Operational Testing

• NFPA 110 requires that all Emergency Power Supply Systems (EPSS) undergo routine maintenance and operational testing. This includes following:
  1. Manufacturer’s recommendations.
  2. Instruction manuals for each system component.
  3. Minimum NFPA requirements.
  4. Directions from the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).

How Weld Power Can Help: We provide customized maintenance plans to meet these benchmarks, ensuring continuous reliability of your EPSS.

2. Fuel Quality Management

• Annual fuel quality tests are mandatory to prevent contamination and ensure long-term storage capability.
• Tests must meet ASTM standards or manufacturer-specific guidelines, and fuel tanks must be sampled to minimize microbial growth and sediment.

How Weld Power Can Help: We partner with that lab that will test the quality of your fuel and our fuel testing and polishing services ensure your fuel supply meets NFPA 110 standards, keeping your generator ready for operation.

3. Battery Maintenance

• Weekly inspections of storage batteries are required, focusing on voltage, electrolyte levels, and cleanliness.
• Monthly testing must record electrolyte specific gravity or perform conductance testing where applicable.

How Weld Power Can Help: We conduct battery inspections, testing, and replacements, ensuring starting systems operate without fail.

4. Transfer Switch Testing

• Transfer switches must undergo monthly operation tests, transitioning between primary and alternate power sources.
• Connections should be checked for overheating, erosion, or dust buildup.
• Transfer Switches should have a thorough visual and functional inspection / testing performed at least once per year.

How Weld Power Can Help: We provide transfer switch inspections and repairs, ensuring seamless transitions during power outages.

5. Load Testing and Generator Exercising

• Monthly exercising is required under load for at least 30 minutes.
• Diesel generators must operate at a minimum of 30% of their nameplate kW rating or achieve recommended exhaust temperatures. Failure to meet these requirements will subject the EPSS to yearly load bank testing.
• Alternative annual tests must include 50% load for 30 minutes and 75% load for 1 hour, totaling 1.5 hours.
• All EPSS must be load bank tested every 3 years. Annual and tri-annual testing can be combined. 

How Weld Power Can Help: We perform load bank testing to verify generator performance under real-world conditions and ensure you stay in compliance.

6. Spare Parts and Special Tools

• NFPA 110 mandates that facilities maintain special tools and high-mortality spare parts, as recommended by the manufacturer.

How Weld Power Can Help: We can work with you and your budget to come up with a comprehensive list of recommended replacement parts and tools as part of our maintenance packages.

7. Documentation and Recordkeeping

• All maintenance, inspections, and repairs must be recorded and kept readily available for inspection by the AHJ.
• Records should include test dates, personnel details, and corrective actions taken.

How Weld Power Can Help: We provide detailed service reports to simplify compliance tracking and audits.

8. Qualified Personnel

• Maintenance and testing must be conducted by qualified individuals with proper training and knowledge of EPSS equipment.

How Weld Power Can Help: Our certified technicians ensure that every inspection and repair meets NFPA 110 standards.

Why NFPA 110 Compliance is Essential

Compliance ensures that your emergency power systems are ready when needed, minimizes downtime, and meets legal requirements. Failure to comply can lead to operational disruptions, fines, or safety risks.

Partner with Weld Power for NFPA 110 Compliance

At Weld Power, we specialize in keeping your emergency power systems reliable and compliant. From routine inspections to fuel, battery, and load bank testing, we cover all aspects of NFPA 110 requirements.

Contact us today to schedule maintenance or discuss a compliance plan tailored to your facility’s needs.