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Emergency Power Off (EPO) Testing

Published: January 7, 2020 Dan Chisholm Sr

Emergency Power Off (EPO) switches, also referred to as “Generator Remote Shutdown Switches,” are a hot topic of conversation. In the past two years (2018-2019), MGI has received multiple comments regarding proper placement and testing of the EPOs. Most recent discussions revolve around exercising/testing an EPO while the generator is under load.

Note: An EPO’s function is to immediately shut down the EPS if for whatever reason its continuing operation could pose a safety hazard or cause property damage.

NFPA 110, 8.4.1 states: EPSSs, including all appurtenant components, shall be inspected weekly and exercised under load at least monthly.

Paragraph 8.4.1 does not state the EPOs should be tested while an EPS is running under load. Operating the (EPO) under load for testing is OUT OF THE QUESTION!!!

“Shutting down an engine with a hot turbo can destroy the oil seals in a cartridge…and may lead to oil feeding directly into the air intake…resulting in a CATASTROPHIC OVERSPEED. NEVER test it while the genset is under load.” – Steve Works, Blanchard Machinery

Shutting down a loaded generator could turn into a 7-figure replacement and rehab project, plus leaving you in a tenuous situation if the generator is the only source of emergency power.

About Dan Chisholm Sr

Motor and Generator Institute (MGI) was formed in 1995 by Dan Chisholm, Sr, CHEPP. Dan is currently President of MGI Consulting Services and serves as the Chairman of the National Fire Protection Association’s Technical Committees responsible for NFPA 110, Emergency and Standby Power Systems, NFPA 111, Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems, and a technical committee member of the Electrical Section of NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code, while also serving as a primary emergency power consultant to the U.S. Army Medical Department (AMEDD) and the Department of Defense. Click here to learn more about Dan.

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Motor and Generator Institute offers online training for personnel involved in the operation, maintenance, testing, and compliance of an emergency power supply system (EPSS).

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