Apartment Building Emergency Generator Monthly Test Checklist

This apartment building emergency generator monthly test checklist ensures standby power systems comply with NFPA 110 Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems monthly exercise requirements. Emergency generators power critical building systems during utility outages including fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, elevators, and sump pumps. NFPA 110 requires monthly 30-minute loaded exercise tests, and most high-rise and mid-rise buildings require this equipment per building code. Failur

  • Industry: Property Management
  • Frequency: Monthly (Minimum 30-Minute Loaded Test Required)
  • Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Role: Maintenance Supervisor / Licensed Electrician / Generator Service Technician
  • Total Items: 28
  • Compliance: NFPA 110 Emergency and Standby Power Systems, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 7.9, NFPA 72 Fire Alarm Power Supply Requirements, IEEE 446 Recommended Practice for Emergency Power, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.303 Electrical Safety

Pre-Start Inspection

Inspect generator before starting monthly test.

  • Fuel level at minimum 75% of tank capacity?
  • Engine oil level within acceptable range on dipstick?
  • Coolant level adequate in overflow reservoir and radiator (when cool)?
  • Starting battery connections clean and tight?
  • Battery charger/trickle charger operational and maintaining charge?
  • No visible fuel, oil, or coolant leaks?

Monthly Test Run

Execute minimum 30-minute loaded test run per NFPA 110.

  • Generator starts within 10 seconds of initiation?
  • Automatic transfer switch activates and transfers load to generator?
  • Generator operated under load for minimum 30 minutes?
  • Output voltage and frequency stable within acceptable tolerances during run?
  • No alarms, faults, or abnormal conditions during test run?
  • Engine operating temperature reached normal range and stayed stable?

Connected Loads and Systems

Verify critical building systems powered correctly during generator operation.

  • Emergency lighting circuits powered during test?
  • Fire alarm system remained operational during test?
  • At least one elevator operational on generator power?
  • Sump pump circuits powered during test?
  • All critical life-safety loads confirmed operational during test?

Post-Test Inspection and Cooldown

Post-test checks after generator returns to standby.

  • Transfer switch returned load to utility power smoothly after test?
  • Generator returned to standby mode (running at no load until cooldown complete)?
  • No new fluid leaks observed after run?
  • Exhaust clear and discharging to exterior without obstruction?
  • Post-run fuel level recorded and refueling scheduled if needed?

Test Log and Service Records

Document monthly test results per NFPA 110 requirements.

  • Monthly test log completed with date, duration, load, voltage, and all readings?
  • Annual professional service inspection on schedule?
  • Any issues or deficiencies documented for service contractor follow-up?
  • Test log filed in building maintenance records?
  • Property owner notified of any generator issues requiring capital repair?
  • Automatic transfer switch (ATS) annual service by licensed electrician current?

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Why Use This Apartment Building Emergency Generator Monthly Test Checklist?

This apartment building emergency generator monthly test checklist helps property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for maintenance supervisor / licensed electrician / generator service technician professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly (minimum 30-minute loaded test required).

Ensures compliance with NFPA 110 Emergency and Standby Power Systems, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 7.9, NFPA 72 Fire Alarm Power Supply Requirements, IEEE 446 Recommended Practice for Emergency Power, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.303 Electrical Safety, Local Building Code Emergency Power Requirements, UK BS 7671 IET Wiring Regulations, Australia AS/NZS 3010 Electrical Installations - Generating Sets. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Apartment Building Emergency Generator Monthly Test Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Pre-Start Inspection, Monthly Test Run, Connected Loads and Systems, Post-Test Inspection and Cooldown, Test Log and Service Records. It is designed for property management operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly (minimum 30-minute loaded test required). Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Who should use this Apartment Building Emergency Generator Monthly Test Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Maintenance Supervisor / Licensed Electrician / Generator Service Technician professionals in the property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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