Engine-driven generators are permitted to supply secondary power to fire alarm systems, but not primary power. Is it permissible to supply primary power with an engine-driven generator?

Engine-driven generators are permitted to supply secondary power to fire alarm systems, but not primary power. Is it permissible to supply primary power with an engine-driven generator?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in emergency
• D. Only with prior approval

Answer: (B)

Primary power for fire alarm systems is expected to come from the normal utility supply, with engine-driven generators reserved as a standby source to keep the system running when the utility power fails. Using an engine-driven generator as the primary power source would shift the system away from the required, dependable utility supply and introduce reliability and testing concerns that codes expect to avoid. The engine-driven generator is intended to kick in only through an automatic transfer switch to provide secondary power during outages, ensuring continued operation while the utility remains the normal source for routine power. So, supplying primary power with an engine-driven generator is not permissible.

Primary power for fire alarm systems is expected to come from the normal utility supply, with engine-driven generators reserved as a standby source to keep the system running when the utility power fails. Using an engine-driven generator as the primary power source would shift the system away from the required, dependable utility supply and introduce reliability and testing concerns that codes expect to avoid. The engine-driven generator is intended to kick in only through an automatic transfer switch to provide secondary power during outages, ensuring continued operation while the utility remains the normal source for routine power. So, supplying primary power with an engine-driven generator is not permissible.