Codes and standards concerning emergency backup power and other key resiliency matters should reflect lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy and other recent major storms, says Bhavesh Patel, vice president, global marketing for ASCO Power Technologies.
One standard, the NFPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems, 2013 edition says, “EPSS (emergency power supply system) equipment should be located above known previous flooding elevations where possible.” And later states, “For natural conditions, EPSS design should consider the ‘100-year storm’ flooding level predicted by the Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes (SLOSH) models for a Class A hurricane.”
“The qualifiers in the two paragraphs – ‘where possible’ and ‘should consider’ – can dilute the effect of the code if the project specifiers are not strict and careful in determining what ‘possible’ can entail,” Patel writes. “The words ‘where possible’ and ‘should consider’ are not as straightforward in conveying intent as a more emphatic ‘must,’ and leaves the door open for less sense of the need to comply.”
Patel notes that a post-Hurricane Sandy task force has recommended that New York City codes be updated to locate building equipment higher to avoid flood damage, require sewage valves to prevent backflows during flooding, and provide for easy access to backup generator hookups.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
Dept. of Energy offers Better Buildings Field Validation Results Hub
One-stop-shop for information associated with technology validations in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
2021 Defense Authorization Act includes mass timber provision
Directs defense, agriculture secretaries to review potential for wood frame construction on defense building projects.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
New York City proposal would require rainwater detention tanks for new development
Rule would apply to projects on lots sized 20,000 sf or larger.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2020
Energy efficiency as a service gaining ground as financing approach for adopting innovations
Building owners can invest in new technology with no upfront cost.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
Resources available to address Legionella threat
Buildings reopened after extended pandemic closure are at risk.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
New Specifications for Concrete Construction reference manual released
Scope expanded to include shotcrete, internal curing, mineral fillers, and recycled concrete aggregates.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2020
Despite COVID-19 population flight, don’t write off big cities yet
Lure of urban life and jobs may draw people back after pandemic subsides.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Test method for vertical fenestration installation procedures updated
FGIA issues first update for document created in 2005.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Updated EPDs for Polyiso Roof and Wall Insulation; EPD for Polyiso High-Density Cover Boards published
Cover Boards EPD is an industry first.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Newly formed Rainscreen Association aims to be recognized authority on rainscreen assemblies
Will address innovations in material performance and building designs.