At GSH Group, we understand the importance of our clients’ buildings and assets, so we undertake key steps to ensure that they run continuously and do not interfere with the daily functions of the BAU operation. Planned simulated mains failure testing and black start building testing allows our clients to concentrate on their core business, confident that we have their building operations covered.
These are key procedures we utilise to ensure that a building’s systems can effectively handle power interruptions and subsequent restarts. These tests simulate the complete loss of external power and assess the abilities of backup systems to restore essential services. Below are some of the benefits of conducting these tests, highlighting their roles in safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.
Ensuring Emergency Preparedness
Validation of Backup Power Systems
Functionality Check:
Backup systems, including generators and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), are crucial for maintaining essential operations during a power outage. Simulated mains failure testing ensures that these systems automatically activate and provide the necessary power to critical loads such as life safety systems and business critical systems.
Load Handling Capacity:
These procedures verify that backup systems can handle the actual electrical loads. This includes testing both the capacity of the generators and UPS as well as the efficiency of transfer switches that shift power from the grind to the backup systems.
Assessment of Power Restoration Procedures
Automatic Restart Protocols
The tests evaluate the efficiency of automated systems designed to restore power without manual intervention. This includes checking that all automated controls, such as breakers and switches, function correctly.
SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) & EOP (Emergency Operating Procedures Live Training)
In situations where manual intervention is necessary, the tests help assess and refine these procedures. They also serve as critical scenario training exercises for maintenance engineers, ensuring they are prepared to handle power restoration safely and efficiently. Regular testing and training sessions provide ongoing opportunities to refine these skills and for organisations to update protocols, reflecting changes in infrastructure or technology.
Improving System Reliability and Performance
Detection of Weaknesses in Infrastructure
Assessment of Equipment Health
Reveal the true condition of critical infrastructure components, such as generators, switchgear, batteries, and fuel systems. Early detection of wear and tear or performance degradation allows for timely maintenance or replacement, reducing the risk of unexpected failures. Potential electrical faults, such as short circuits or overloaded circuits, might not be apparent under normal operating conditions but can pose significant risks during a power fluctuation or outage.
Identification of Single Points of Failure (SPOF) & System Bottlenecks
Our tests can uncover areas where the system may be vulnerable to single-component failure and/or be under capacity, such as insufficient battery backup duration or inadequate generator fuel reserves. Addressing these bottlenecks and SPOFs ensure that systems can sustain operations through longer outages.
Optimisation of System Performance
Fine-Tuning Systems & Maintaining Compliance
The data collected during these tests can be used to fine-tune system settings, such as transfer switch sensitivity or generator start-up sequences. Optimising these parameters enhances the overall performance and responsiveness of the building’s power infrastructure. Conducting these tests and maintaining thorough records demonstrate compliance during audits or inspections.
Integration with Modern Technology
Testing provides an opportunity to assess the integration of modern technologies like smart grids or renewable energy sources with existing backup systems. This helps in planning upgrades or expansions to improve energy efficiency and sustainability.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Minimising Downtime
Proactive Issue Resolution
By identifying potential issues before they cause during working hour disruptions, these tests help minimise unplanned downtime. This positive approach reduces the impact of power outages on business operations, protecting revenue and maintaining service continuity.
Business Continuity Planning
The insights gained from these tests are critical for developing and updating business continuity plans. This ensures that in the event of an extended outage, there are clear, tested protocols in place to minimise operational disruption and ensure a swift recovery to BAU operations.
Conclusion
Simulated mains failure testing and black start building testing are essential for any facility reliant on electrical power. They are crucial for validating emergency preparedness, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, enhancing system reliability, and improving operational efficiency. Regular testing not only safeguards building occupants and assets but also contributes to a resilient and robust infrastructure capable of withstanding and recovering from power disruptions.
Need a provider who can do just that?
GSH, a premier facilities management provider located in the US, Europe, and Asia can fulfill and exceed your facilities needs to you can focus on what matters most to you. We’ve got your back because GSH is Always On.
Written by Mark Jenkins, Regional Director
Mark.Jenkins@GSHGroup.com | +44(0) 7895 203 313