Standby generators and transfer switches

Skills you'll practise

• Describe the sequence from utility failure to generator power and back, including the UPS's role and the timers involved
• Read a simplified one-line diagram and say where the critical load's power is coming from
• Spot readiness problems such as a controller left out of AUTO, a failed test or low fuel
• Calculate generator fuel runtime from tank volume and consumption
• Act within a technician's role during an outage: monitor, record, communicate and avoid risky work

Course outline

1. 1.Standby generators and transfer switchesVideo · 3 min
2. 2.From utility failure to generator powerLesson · 14 min
3. 3.Keeping generators ready: testing, fuel and the controllerLesson · 14 min
4. 4.During an outage: what the technician doesLesson · 12 min
5. 5.Standby generators and transfer switches: knowledge checkKnowledge check · 20 questions
6. 6.Standby generators and transfer switches: practical exerciseKnowledge check · 1 question
7. 7.The generator test that left the site exposedScenario
8. 8.Final exam10 questions · passing it completes the course, so people who already know the material can test out

Sources it draws on

The lessons and questions are written from these references, so learners can go back to the original.

• NFPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems (classification by Type and Level; inspection and exercise requirements)
• Cummins: NFPA 110 for emergency power systems (Type, Class and Level; 2025 edition overview)
• Cummins PowerHour: healthcare emergency power codes (NFPA 110 Type 10, monthly exercise and 36-month testing)
• NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace
• Your generator, ATS and switchgear manufacturers' operation and maintenance manuals, and your site's emergency operating procedures
• ANSI/TIA-942: Telecommunications infrastructure standard for data centers