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Interpretations Request Input

Original Request

  • Request ID: 8506
  • Requested By: Brian Coldwell
  • Requester E-Mail: bcoldwell@rcieng.com
  • Code Version: 2021
  • Code: BUILDING
  • Code Description:
  • Chapter:
  • Section: 467.8.3
  • Topic: EES (generator) type
  • Question: For a Hospice Inpatient Facility, is it the intent of FBC Building 467.8.3 to allow a generator with a single exterior transfer switch to serve the entire facility without separate distribution systems?
  • Comment: FBC Bldg 467.8.3.1 requires a Type III EES per NFPA 99-2018. However, NFPA 99-2018 no longer references a Type III EES; it only references a Type I or Type II EES. The Type III EES was last referenced in the 2012 edition and was removed in the 2015 edition. The 2018 edition is the current version referenced in FBC Bldg Ch 35 and FAC 69A-3.012. FBC Bldg 467.8.3.2 notes that separate branches are not required. Our intention is to serve a single service entrance automatic transfer switch with normal power and also with a Level II, type 10, Class 48 generator. That will feed the single distribution system for the entire building (i.e., ALL lighting, HVAC, outlets, equipment, etc.; instead of just select lighting/elevator/cooking equipment as a bare minimum).

Existing Interpretations and/or Declaratory Statements Related to this request

Input Received:

No comments.

Answer:

As you are installing the correct type of generator, supplying the entire load and provided you are not loading the generator beyond 80% of the rating, it appears you have met the intent of the code.
On 02/23/2021 at 6:12 PM

Commentary:

NEC 700.4 allows an alternative power system to supply emergency circuits, legally required standby, and optional standby circuits where the source has adequate capacity. NFPA has regrouped type 1 and 2 emergency electrical systems now as type 1. They have reclassified type 3 as the new type 2. This all revolves around how critical the load is. The NEC does not classify generators, just the type of loads.

Comments on Draft:

the correct code reference is 467.2.8.1, and I agree with the answer.
Thomas Allen on 02/22/2021 at 6:57 PM
NEC 700.4 allows an alternative power system to supply emergency circuits, legally required standby, and optional standby circuits where the source has adequate capacity. NFPA has regrouped type 1 and 2 emergency electrical systems now as type 1. They have reclassified type 3 as the new type 2. This all revolves around how critical the load is. The NEC does not classify generators, just the type of loads. This is an OSHA or design engineer question. I would not be surprised if a new type 2 generator (old type 3) would not be acceptable for a new type 1 load.
Jonathan Peer on 02/22/2021 at 8:14 PM
I am good with Dougs answer.
Andrew Bruhn on 02/23/2021 at 7:42 PM
Publish Draft Interpretation