What Is NFPA 110?#
NFPA 110 is the Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems, published by the National Fire Protection Association. It establishes minimum requirements for the performance, maintenance, operation, and testing of emergency and standby power systems — including generators — that provide an alternate source of electrical power in buildings where interruption could endanger life or property.
For California facilities, compliance isn't optional. The California Building Code adopts NFPA 110 by reference, and state agencies including OSHPD (now HCAI) enforce additional requirements for healthcare occupancies.
Who Needs to Comply?#
NFPA 110 applies to any facility that relies on an emergency power supply system (EPSS). In California, this typically includes:
- Hospitals and surgical centers — HCAI (formerly OSHPD) requires full NFPA 110 Level 1 compliance
- Skilled nursing and assisted living facilities — licensed under California Department of Public Health
- Data centers — Tier III and IV facilities require EPSS per SLA commitments
- High-rise commercial buildings — California Fire Code mandates emergency power for egress systems
- Government and public safety buildings — fire stations, EOCs, 911 dispatch centers
- Water treatment and wastewater facilities — SWRCB requires backup power for critical pumping
Key NFPA 110 Requirements#
Classification Levels#
NFPA 110 defines two performance levels:
| Level | Transfer Time | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | ≤ 10 seconds | Hospitals, life safety systems, high-rise egress |
| Level 2 | ≤ 60 seconds | Standby systems, data centers, commercial buildings |
The classification determines testing frequency, maintenance requirements, and documentation standards.
Testing Requirements#
Regular testing is the core of NFPA 110 compliance. The standard requires:
- Monthly testing under load for a minimum of 30 minutes
- Annual load bank testing at 30% rated load for 30 minutes, then 50% for 30 minutes, then 75% for 60 minutes (or per manufacturer recommendations)
- Documentation of all tests, including date, duration, load level, ambient temperature, and any deficiencies found
Maintenance Standards#
NFPA 110 Chapter 8 requires a written maintenance program that includes:
- Fuel system inspection (tanks, lines, filters, day tanks)
- Cooling system inspection (coolant levels, hoses, radiator condition)
- Battery inspection and testing (specific gravity, voltage, connections)
- Engine oil and filter changes per manufacturer schedule
- Transfer switch exercise and inspection
- Exhaust system inspection
California-Specific Considerations#
HCAI (Formerly OSHPD) Requirements#
Healthcare facilities regulated by HCAI face additional requirements beyond base NFPA 110:
- Seismic bracing for all generator and ATS equipment
- Pre-approval of generator installations through the HCAI plan review process
- Inspection and certification by HCAI-approved inspectors
- 96-hour fuel supply on-site at all times (vs. the NFPA 110 base requirement)
Air Quality Permits#
California's Air Resources Board (CARB) and local Air Quality Management Districts (AQMDs) regulate generator emissions. Diesel generators require:
- CARB ATCM compliance — Airborne Toxic Control Measure for stationary diesel engines
- Permit to Operate from the local AQMD
- Hour-meter tracking to stay within permitted annual runtime hours
- Tier 4 Final engines for new installations in most districts
Title 24 Energy Code#
California's Title 24 intersects with NFPA 110 for commercial buildings:
- Emergency lighting systems must be backed by EPSS
- Elevator recall systems require emergency power in buildings over 75 feet
- Fire alarm and communication systems require secondary power
How OnPoint Generators Helps#
We provide comprehensive NFPA 110 compliance services including:
- Compliance audits — assess your current EPSS against NFPA 110 and California-specific requirements
- Testing and documentation — monthly and annual load bank testing with full reporting
- Maintenance programs — scheduled service aligned with NFPA 110 Chapter 8
- New installations — from sizing through permitting and HCAI approval
- Emergency repairs — 24/7 response to keep your facility in compliance
Whether you're a hospital administrator, facility manager, or building owner, maintaining NFPA 110 compliance protects your occupants and your organization. Contact us or request a quote to discuss your specific requirements.