Okay, let's break down the process of determining if Emergency Systems or Legally Required Standby Systems are needed for your airport renovation and expansion project. This is a complex area, but we'll cover the key points.

Understanding the Systems

First, let's clarify the differences between these systems as defined in NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code): Emergency Systems (NEC Article 700)

These systems are intended to automatically supply illumination, power, or both to designated areas and equipment essential for safety to human life in the event of failure of the normal supply. These systems are typically required where loss of power could result in hazards to life safety. Think of things like emergency egress lighting, fire pumps, fire alarm systems, smoke evacuation systems, etc. Emergency systems must be capable of supplying power within 10 seconds of a power outage.

Legally Required Standby Systems (NEC Article 701)

These systems are required by a governmental agency (federal, state, local) or other legally authorized entity to supply power to specific loads when the normal power supply fails. While they are important, the immediate life safety risk is generally lower than with emergency systems. Examples could include things like ventilation systems in certain occupancies, communications systems essential for public safety, or specific security systems mandated by regulations. Legally required standby systems must be capable of supplying power within 60 seconds of a power outage.

Optional Standby Systems (NEC Article 702)

These systems are installed to protect private business or property where life safety does not depend on the performance of the system. Examples of these systems could be heating and refrigeration systems, data processing systems, and communication systems.

1. Consulting NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) for Airports Chapter 42, Airport Terminal Buildings

NFPA 101 specifically addresses airport terminal buildings in Chapter 42. This chapter is the first place to start. It details specific requirements based on the occupancy classification and use of different areas within the airport.

Occupancy Classification

Determine the occupancy classification for each area of the airport (e.g., assembly, business, storage). This is crucial because NFPA 101 requirements vary significantly based on occupancy. Different sections of the airport may fall under different occupancies.

Egress Requirements

Pay very close attention to the means of egress requirements. NFPA 101 will specify minimum illumination levels along the path of egress and the required duration for emergency lighting. Look for sections that mandate emergency lighting and exit signs.

Hazardous Areas

Identify any hazardous areas within the airport (e.g., fuel storage, aircraft maintenance areas). These areas may have specific requirements for emergency power to ensure safe shutdown or continued operation of critical safety equipment.

Fire Protection Systems

Look at the requirements for fire alarm systems, smoke control systems, and fire suppression systems. These often require emergency power to function during a power outage.

Referenced Standards

NFPA 101 references other NFPA standards, such as NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) and NFPA 92 (Standard for Smoke Control Systems). You'll need to consult these referenced standards for detailed requirements on the design and installation of emergency and standby systems.

Key areas in NFPA 101 to investigate



Section 7.9, Emergency Lighting

This section provides the general requirements for emergency lighting.

Section 7.10, Exit Signs

This section provides the general requirements for exit signs.

Section 9.6, Emergency Power

This section will determine whether your building will require emergency power.

Section 42.7, Airport Terminal Buildings

This section deals with the requirements for emergency and standby power system in airports.

2. International Building Code (IBC) and Local Amendments The IBC does address emergency and standby power systems. However, the IBC typically defers to NFPA 101 for specific life safety requirements. The IBC provides a framework and references NFPA 101. Chapter 27, Electrical

The IBC will reference applicable sections of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code).

Chapter 9, Fire Protection

This chapter may outline the requirements for fire protection systems, which often necessitate emergency power.

Local Amendments are Critical

The most important thing is to check for any local amendments to the IBC that your jurisdiction has adopted. Many jurisdictions have modified or added to the IBC to address specific local conditions or concerns. These amendments can significantly impact emergency power requirements.

Process


Determine what version of the IBC the state adopted as well as any modifications that have been put in place by state or city governments.2. Determine what version of the NFPA the state adopted as well as any modifications that have been put in place by state or city governments.3. Start with NFPA 101, Chapter 42, Airport Terminal Buildings. Follow the process listed above in the first main bullet point.4. After reviewing the NFPA, compare with the version of IBC that your state has adopted to confirm that there is no added or conflicting modifications.3. Battery Backup vs. Alternate Source of Power (Generator/UPS) Self-Contained Battery Backup

Luminaires with self-contained battery backups can meet the emergency lighting requirements under certain circumstances. NFPA 101 allows this in some cases, particularly for smaller areas or where the required duration of emergency lighting is relatively short. However, the key is to ensure they meet the illumination levels, duration, and reliability specified in NFPA 101.

When a Generator/UPS is Required



Larger Facilities

For larger airport terminals or areas with complex egress paths, self-contained battery backups may not be sufficient to meet the overall emergency lighting needs.

Longer Duration

If NFPA 101 requires a longer duration of emergency lighting (e.g., 90 minutes is common), battery backups may not have the capacity to provide that duration reliably.

Critical Systems

If emergency power is needed for systems beyond just egress lighting (e.g., fire pumps, smoke control, critical communications), a generator or UPS is almost certainly required.

Reliability Concerns

A generator/UPS provides a more reliable and robust source of emergency power for critical systems. Battery backups can be subject to failure due to aging, improper maintenance, or temperature extremes.

Code Requirements

Many local jurisdictions require a generator/UPS for emergency power in airport terminals, regardless of whether battery backups could technically meet the minimum requirements.

Redundancy

It's not uncommon to see both battery backups in individual fixtures and a generator providing backup power to the overall lighting system. This provides an extra layer of redundancy and ensures that at least some level of illumination is available even if the generator fails to start or a battery backup fails.

In Summary: Determining Whether an Emergency/Standby System is Required1. Identify the Occupancy Classification

Classify each area of the airport.2.

Review NFPA 101, Chapter 42

This is your primary guide.3.

Review the IBC (and Local Amendments)

See how the IBC refers to NFPA 101 and check for local modifications.4.

Determine the Required Duration of Emergency Power

NFPA 101 will specify this.5.

Assess Critical Systems

Identify all systems that require emergency power (e.g., fire alarm, smoke control, egress lighting, communications).6.

Evaluate Battery Backups vs. Generator/UPS

Can battery backups meet the illumination, duration, and reliability requirements? Consider redundancy.7.

Consult with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Discuss your findings and proposed design with the local building official or fire marshal. Their interpretation of the codes and regulations will be the final authority.8.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of your code research, design decisions, and consultations with the AHJ.

Important Considerations



Coordination

Coordinate with the electrical engineer, fire protection engineer, and architect to ensure that all life safety systems are properly integrated and compliant with the applicable codes.*

Testing and Maintenance: Emergency and standby systems require regular testing and maintenance to ensure they will function properly when needed. Specify testing and maintenance procedures in the project documents.This is a general guide. The specific requirements for your project will depend on the details of the design, the local codes, and the interpretation of the AHJ. It is important to consult with qualified professionals to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. Flag for review