1. Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings
Seminar for
Emergency Generator Maintenance and Testing

2. CAN/CSA-C282-09 A national standard for emergency power
in buildings which covers:
Design
Installation
Operation
Maintenance

3. The Fire Code
In Alberta, generator installation and maintenance is legislated under the Alberta fire code. The fire code adopts the CSA specification C “Emergency Power Supply for Buildings.” This specification includes: - Equipment requirements - Installation requirements - Testing & commissioning AND today's subject Operation & maintenance schedules

4. What Is the Generator for ?
Intent: to establish design and operating requirements for on-site generators with connected life-safety loads to assist in safe evacuation of buildings
Life safety system examples
Emergency lighting
Fire alarm & Voice communications
Stairwell pressurization fans
Fire pumps
Fire fighter’s elevator
Exit signs dependant on electrical power supplied to the building

5. Taking Care of Business
Other uses (non- C282):
UPS back-up (data centre)
Critical process manufacturing
Residential back-up
Peak shaving
Co-generation
Prime power
Telecom

6. Diesel Fuel Supply
A fuel supply shall be maintained on site at all times (minimum 2 full load)
The fuel supply shall be dedicated for the generator only
Multiple generator set systems may have a single main storage tank, provided each engine has its own supply line and day tank with automatic fuel transfer
The on-site fuel supply MUST meet current CSA B139 requirements

7. Operation & Maintenance
The generator shall be operated and maintained as per manufacturers recommendations
A copy of the owners manual must be available on site
A generator test log book must be maintained on site by all who perform service and testing

8. Weekly Inspections Check Fire Panel for alarms Check all fluid levels
Check fuel levels (2 hr min.)
Check for leaks
Check batteries and cables
Check battery charger operation
Check block heater(s)
Check all belts
Check room heater and test emergency light
Check cleanliness of room(s)
Verify room temperature (+10˚)
Ensure generator is in automatic mode
Record inspection in logbook
Notify monitoring office before turning control panel off

9. Monthly Inspections and Testing
inspect and check all items from weekly maintenance routine
Drain exhaust from any condensation
Inspect block heater hoses and block heater wiring
Test the entire system : “Operational Test”
Simulate a failure of the normal power (system test switch)
Operate the system under at least 30 % load for 60 min.
Operate all transfer switches under load
Check for correct operation of all auxiliary systems and equipment
Record all operating data and readings in log book

10. Semi-annual inspections & Maintenance
Note: this work requires special skills and must be carried out by a qualified contractor, manufacturer or technician trained / certified by the manufacture
Complete all inspection items from “weekly” and “monthly” checks
Inspect and clean engine crankcase breathers & linkages
Lubricate engine governor and ventilation system
Test all protective devices for proper operation (safeties)
Test / clean battery(ies), if below 80% - should be replaced
Inspect ventilation system (louvers, motors, belts)
Record all inspections, tests and corrective actions required

11. Annual Inspection, Tests and Maintenance
Note: this work requires special skills and must be carried out by a qualified contractor, manufacturer or technician trained / certified by the manufacture
Complete all inspection & maintenance items from weekly, monthly and semi-annual requirements
Control Panel checks
Oil & filter change and detailed engine inspection
Diesel fuel supply checks
Alternator (generator) checks
Automatic Transfer Switch inspection
2 hr. load bank test
Infrared survey
Table 5 review

12. Table 5 (example of some of the 42 annual checks)

13. Annual 2 hr. Load bank Test
Test the 100% of its rating for 2 hrs.
Disconnect the generator from the building and connect to load bank
Ensure the load bank is set-up safely to prevent personal injury and property damage
Record all test readings on test report
Loadbank access is critical

14. Annual Infrared Survey
Infrared thermometer has been accepted for use by CSA
To be conducted during annual load bank test and to include temperature recording of :
Control panel connections
Generator connections
Transfer switch connections

15. Fuel Storage
For fuel oil stored in ANY tank(s), the fuel must annually pass a “clear and bright” test, if the fuel fails this test then:
Drain tank, clean and flush tank bottom, then replace with fresh fuel or
Full filter or “polish” fuel annually

16. Fuel Storage
If kept clean, cool and dry, diesel fuel can be stored 6 months to 1 year without significant quality degradation. Storage for longer periods can be accomplished through use of periodic filtrations and addition of fuel stabilizers and biocides.

17. The Effects of “dirty fuel”
Damage to diesel engine injectors, fuel pumps, cylinders, piston rings.
Damage to fuel tank and lines
Liability issues
Possible loss of life or property
Excessive engine service costs
Environmental issues due to dirty exhaust and possible tank leaks
Non compliance with CSA

18. Every 5 Years (Quinquennial)
Note: this work requires special skills and must be carried out by a qualified contractor, manufacturer or technician trained / certified by the manufacture
Insulation test or “megger” test generator windings
Drain and flush engine cooling system, then refill with new coolant
Clean radiator tubes and fins (externally)
Replace engine thermostats
Inspect valve clearances and adjust as required

19. C282-15 Changes Test remote alarm signals at fire panel (weekly)
Additional verification of battery charger current output when cranking (monthly)
Additional inspection requirements for over current devices (annual)
Requirements for infrared thermal imaging assessment (Quinquennial)

20. C Changes
New requirement for permanent connections of temporary test loads including means of disconnect and over current protection.
Increased electrical safety and reduction of arc-flash protection requirements
Far less “down time”
Reduced annual testing costs

21. Thank You