We have all experienced a sudden power outage in the past and had to wait until the problem was resolved,
a feeling of helplessness when the situation is out of control and there is nothing you can do about it.
The situation gets worse if you live on one of the higher floors of the building, say on the 20th floor, here the experience only gets worse.
A sudden power outage is an unpleasant experience but there is a way to prevent it!
Emergency building generator – the solution for power outages
Many buildings today install an emergency generator (energy generator) that goes into operation at the moment of a power outage automatically.
One of the most important benefits of the emergency generator is that tenants on the upper floors can continue to use the elevator without the frustration and fear trapped inside.
It is very important to install an emergency generator in a building – especially in high-rise buildings
An emergency generator is responsible not only for the proper operation of the elevators but for a number of systems, for example:
- Fire and smoke detection and extinguishing systems
- Water pumps
- Smoke removal and ventilation system
- emergency lighting
An emergency generator in time of need can save lives!
If a fire breaks out in a residential building and the electricity supply is cut off and there is no backup, the fire systems, emergency lighting and extinguishing the fire will not work, which can cause heavy damage to property and human life.
In a similar situation when the emergency generator goes into operation, the occupants will be able to use emergency lighting to find their way safely out,
the fire detection and extinguishing system will come into operation and the sprinklers will be activated and the ventilation system will prevent the occupants from inhaling smoke.
** Keep in mind that when there is a fire in the building the instruction is not to use the elevator but only the stairs!
Beyond that, there is an obligation to install emergency generators in buildings over 27 meters (or 9 floors or more).
There are standards that need to be adhered to and ensure that the emergency generator meets them.
It is important to note that installing an emergency generator is not enough, it is very critical to make sure that all systems are working and of course to take care of the generator on a regular basis.
Emphasis on routine maintenance of an emergency generator
- The regulations of the Ministry of Safety and Health state that an inspection of the generator must be performed once every 5 years.
But since this is a general guideline for the safety of the generator and not for its function, it is recommended to perform one test every few months.
It is important to make sure that the generator is working properly and is able to operate all the required systems depending on the building. - It is important to take care of the emergency generator on a regular basis, whether it comes to an oil change or a mechanical treatment.
Of course the routine care will be carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions. - Since the generator goes into operation when there is a power outage, it is important from time to time to make sure there is a sufficient amount of fuel and of course to refuel accordingly.
- It is desirable and worthwhile to monitor and record the treatment to the emergency generator, in a treatment diary of what was done and when.
- The generator shut-off switch should be installed in a place with easy access to it.
- The generator room must be ventilated and no objects that are not belonging to it should be there.
- For safety it is important that the generator room be locked with access only to authorized persons.
We hope you now have the knowledge of the importance of installing an emergency generator and of course the ongoing care to prevent malfunctions in times of distress.
Koren Structures and Systems provides a service of installing an emergency generator for buildings and of course provides all the approvals and tests required by law.
