NFPA 110 is the standard for emergency and standby power systems—and it plays a vital role in ensuring your exit signs and emergency lights stay lit during power failures. This guide explains when NFPA 110 applies and what you need to know to keep your system compliant.
View the Full U.S. State-by-State Fire Code Guide⚡ What Is NFPA 110?
NFPA 110 sets the standard for emergency and standby power systems, particularly those that supply power during outages. It covers installation, performance, testing, and maintenance requirements for systems that support life safety equipment—like exit signs and emergency lights.
This standard is enforced in buildings where backup power is legally required, including hospitals, high-rise buildings, and assembly occupancies.
🚨 Why NFPA 110 Compliance Matters
If your building relies on a generator, inverter, or centralized battery system for emergency lighting, NFPA 110 governs how that system should be configured and maintained. Key benefits include:
- Reliable power delivery to egress lighting during outages
- Defined start-up times (10 seconds or less for Level 1 systems)
- Testing procedures that ensure operational readiness
- Protection of wiring and equipment against environmental risks
NFPA 110 ensures that lights come on when needed—and stay on long enough to evacuate safely.
🔋 System Types Under NFPA 110
NFPA 110 defines two levels of emergency power systems:
- Level 1: Systems where failure could result in loss of life or serious injury (e.g., emergency lighting in high-occupancy buildings)
- Level 2: Systems where failure is less critical but still impacts safety or comfort
Exit signs and emergency lighting typically fall under Level 1 in most commercial and institutional occupancies.
🛠️ Installation Requirements
- Power systems must start within 10 seconds of utility failure
- Systems must support at least 90 minutes of runtime (UL 924 requirement)
- Fuel supply, exhaust, and ventilation must meet fire safety codes
- Transfer switches must be automatic and tested regularly
Installers must follow both NEC and NFPA 110 guidelines to ensure code-compliant backup power for exit signage.
🧪 Maintenance & Testing Requirements
- Monthly: Generator must be exercised under load for at least 30 minutes
- Annually: Full-load testing is required (including system transfer)
- Logs must be maintained for all testing, inspections, and fuel levels
NFPA 110 emphasizes documentation—no test is complete without a written log.
📋 Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Track runtime, fuel usage, and battery performance over time
- Keep records accessible for inspectors and AHJs
- Include repair history, test intervals, and manufacturer service bulletins
Documented compliance is often required for building recertification and insurance claims.
❌ Common NFPA 110 Violations
- Failure to perform monthly generator tests
- Missing or outdated test logs
- Incorrect transfer switch installation
- Insufficient runtime due to fuel or battery issues
Most violations are preventable with scheduled testing and training.
❓ NFPA 110 FAQ for Exit Signs
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Does every exit sign need to be connected to NFPA 110 power?
Only in facilities where backup power is legally required. Battery-only units are acceptable in many applications. -
Can battery backup meet NFPA 110?
Yes, if the system meets runtime, transfer, and testing requirements. -
Who enforces NFPA 110?
Your local AHJ (fire marshal, inspector) will verify compliance as part of life safety inspections.
📚 Helpful Resources
🧠 Final Thoughts
NFPA 110 bridges the gap between power outage and safe evacuation. If your building uses centralized or generator-powered emergency lighting, this code sets the standard. Follow it carefully, test regularly, and you’ll be ready when it counts.