EPSS classifications

NFPA 99, NFPA 101, and NFPA 110 establish the minimum requirements for defining the level, type, and class of EPSS.

By Derek DeJesus, CxA, LEED AP, BD+C, KJWW Engineering Consultants, Chicago June 23, 2014

Level: The EPSS level defines powered loads and risk to human life and safety.

  • Level 1: Equipment failure could result in loss of life or serious injury.

  • Level 2: Equipment failure is less likely to result in loss of life or serious injury.

Type: The EPSS type determines the maximum time in seconds that essential ATS load terminals can be without power.

  • Type 10: 10 sec to restore power

  • Type 60: 60 sec to restore power.

Class: The EPSS class determines the minimum time, typically in hours, that the EPSS can operate without being refueled.

  • Class 6: 6 hr of operation

  • Class X: X hr of operation as required by application, code, or user.