FACP power source

[sam34]

FACP power source

Is there anywhere in the NEC or Fire Alarm Code tells us that the power source for the FACP and the Power Supplies has to be on life safety circuit? I have a situation where we are metering the lighting separately (277V), which this is the only life safety circuit is a available but can not be used (since the lighting metered separately). I have a Generator system with three transfer switches (Life Safety, Legally required and optional). can I use the optional emergency circuit to power the FACP? your thoughts really appreciated...

 

[websparky]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

Sam,

Yes, you can use the optional. Usually you can not use the legally required or emergency system.

 

[iwire]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

Originally posted by websparky:
Sam,

Yes, you can use the optional. Usually you can not use the legally required or emergency system.

Strange, we are required to use the emergency system if there is one to feed an FACP.

 

[roger]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

The F/A power source must be fed from the "Life Safety" branch in health care facility's. 517.32(C)(1)

Roger

 

[iwire]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

The FPNs in each section are interesting even though they are not code.

Emergency Systems

700.1 FPN No. 3: Emergency systems are generally installed in places of assembly where artificial illumination is required for safe exiting and for panic control in buildings subject to occupancy by large numbers of persons, such as hotels, theaters, sports arenas, health care facilities, and similar institutions. Emergency systems may also provide power for such functions as ventilation where essential to maintain life, fire detection and alarm systems, elevators, fire pumps, public safety communications systems, industrial processes where current interruption would produce serious life safety or health hazards, and similar functions.

Legally required

701.2 FPN:Legally required standby systems are typically installed to serve loads, such as heating and refrigeration systems, communications systems, ventilation and smoke removal systems, sewage disposal, lighting systems, and industrial processes, that, when stopped during any interruption of the normal electrical supply, could create hazards or hamper rescue or fire-fighting operations.

Optional Standby

702.2 FPN:Optional standby systems are typically installed to provide an alternate source of electric power for such facilities as industrial and commercial buildings, farms, and residences and to serve loads such as heating and refrigeration systems, data processing and communications systems, and industrial processes that, when stopped during any power outage, could cause discomfort, serious interruption of the process, damage to the product or process, or the like.

 

[websparky]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

Originally posted by iwire:

Originally posted by websparky:
Sam,

Yes, you can use the optional. Usually you can not use the legally required or emergency system.

Strange, we are required to use the emergency system if there is one to feed an FACP.

Bob,
Is this one of those New England only codes?

 

[iwire]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

Originally posted by websparky:
Bob,
Is this one of those New England only codes?

It certainly could be, I will try to find out.


But it does seem to jive with the FPNs and 517.32(C)(1).

 

[sandsnow]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

You need to check the building code and fire code. The ones accepted in your jurisdiction.
Typically the FACP here is unit equipment (battery) or on emergency system in high rise.

 

[iwire]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

For MA this is what it says.

527 CMR 24.05: Power Supply Sources (2) Primary Power Supply (AC). (a) An AC primary source of electric power shall be a dependable commercial light and power supply source. A visible "power on" indicator shall be provided.

Fire Warning Systems Installed In Buildings Within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Consider a building with Normal, Optional Standby, Legally required and Emergency systems, which is more likely to be dependable supply source?

 

[sam34]

Re: FACP power source

Re: FACP power source

Thank you all for replying. From what I'm reading it seems like I have to use the life safety panel, but the problem with that I only have one safety distribution panel with a dedicated transfer switch. Do I need to add another life safety transfer switch only for this purpose? How about if I could use a UPS system for that? By the way, this Job is Located in Ohio...