Who is responsible for emergency power requirements in hospitals & healthcare facilities?

Within today’s hospitals and healthcare facilities, the administration leaders, facility managers, electrical engineers, and compliance officers are among the professionals who must have an understanding of emergency power requirements and the electrical codes which must be met.

How often should hospitals test emergency power supply systems?

Every quarter, hospitals should perform functional tests of stored emergency power supply systems. ‒ Twelve times a year, hospitals should test emergency generators. Although the emergency preparedness requirements from CMS apply to a wide variety of facility types,11 some facilities are not covered.

What NFPA standards are required for emergency power systems?

Ensuring adherence to standards such as NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 99, NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), and NFPA 110 is crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining emergency power systems that meet stringent safety and reliability requirements.

Do hospitals need a backup power system?

Many hospitals have an aging electrical infrastructure, so assessing whether their backup power systems meet modern standards is essential. Facilities relying on older generators or insufficient fuel reserves risk delays in restoring power, which could potentially endanger lives.

Can I install an emergency power supply inside my facility?

•• Indoor installations If you choose to install your emergency power supply (EPS) inside your facility, you’ll need to put it in a separate room with a 2-hour fire resistance rating (FRR), so that it is better equipped to withstand emergency conditions.

Are healthcare facilities vulnerable to power outages?

These requirements, and the fact that healthcare facilities generally cannot temporarily suspend operations, make healthcare facilities uniquely susceptible to power outages. Without power, facilities may require evacuation, and evacuation carries significant dangers for specific populations such as those with access and functional needs.