Backup for the Backup - Tec Trek Web Site

Tip of the Week

NOW FOR THE NEWSLETTER

Backup for the Backup


This week’s edition will be an addendum to the last posted newsletter covering battery backup systems, see link below

Safety Alert 005

During a recent training program, I posted the slide below,

Questions were posed regarding the last item, replacement of the batteries within 5 years, based on the manufactures date code on the battery. The main request was, “Show us the regulation, code/standard or specification as to this requirement”.

So, we will first look at code, CFR & API do not provide information related to this requirement, but both reference NFPA 72, which gives the following;

The 2007 NFPA 72 shows in Table 10.4.4, Item 6(d)(1), that the sealed lead-acid batteries used for battery backup in fire alarm systems need to be replaced within 5 years of manufacture.


The NFPA wants the batteries replaced because the battery capacity is down to about 80% by that time. Battery capacity, the amount of amp hours in a battery, changes over time. In the first few months after manufacture, the amp hour capacity of the average battery increases a few percent. For several years, this capacity doesn't change much. Near the end of the battery's useful life, the amp hour capacity starts to taper off. At 5 years, it's down to about 80% of rated capacity.

I will also refer you to the battery manufactures contribution for the above requirement, the chart below was provided by Power Sonic. Power Sonic

So as you can see, code will often follow the manufactures recommendations on battery replacement. You will also note that even current NFPA codes will put a heavy emphasis on manufacture of the equipment and support items, in this case the battery.

Below you will see an example of a battery date code. Date codes/interpretation may vary per manufacturer.

Fire Alarm back-up battery manufacturers are stamping the fire alarm batteries with the month and year of manufacture. This is the date that you want to mark down.  The fire alarm battery pictured above is manufactured by Power Sonic and has a date stamp of 10194-H on it.  The code of 10194 = the Month (10) the Day (19) and the Year (2004). So as you can see by a technician labeling the batteries new on "2/2/2015" is incorrect.

After contact with multiple services companies in the State, most have adopted the policy of replacement with-in 3-4 years of manufacture’s date, but this is their internal company policy and not enforceable per the AHJ.

THIS NEWSLETTER REFLECTS THE MOST COMMONLY USED GENERAL PURPOSE BATTERY FOR FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS. THERE ARE COMPANIES THAT MAKE LONG LIFE VERSIONS THAT CAN BE OBTAINED FOR THIS PURPOSE. IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU VERIFY THE EXITING BATTERY BACKUP WITH THE MANUFACTURE TO ENSURE ITS MANUFACTURED DATE AND SERVICE LIFE.

If you require more information regarding the terms and explanations above, contact me by email or phone for assistance.

The above information is covered in the following Tec Trek class segments: Awareness Training (FG-01A), Basic Technical Training (FG-01)

For more information regarding training schedules and course curriculum, please visit our Web Site at www.tectrek.org

Or Contact Todd Olivier at (337) 298-7959.

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