Here are seven clarifications on the types of emergency electrical systems required for ASCs, based on information from The Joint Commission and Medi-Products.
1. If the electrical system is new or an existing system is affected by renovations, CMS requires ASCs accredited by The Joint Commission to have either a Type 1 emergency generator system or a Type 3 system.
2. For Type 1 systems and Type 3 systems, the maximum permitted transfer time is 10 seconds. Both systems have no minimum length of time that the alternative power source must be designed to run, giving physicians the freedom to determine how much time they need to complete a case.
3. Whereas Type 1 systems should be installed where there would be a risk of death or serious injury to the patient in the event of power failure, Type 3 systems are permitted where equipment failure is less critical to human life and safety.
4. Special care units designated for invasive procedures where patients are connected to line-operated, care-related electrical appliances must utilize a Type 1 system.
5. A Type 3 Essential Electrical System is suitable for rooms that don't provide electrical life support or use general anesthesia, as long as the batteries are large enough to support existing equipment and the facility has enough backup power for emergency lighting of corridors, exits and alarms. This type of system may be permitted in an endoscopy procedure or pain management room.
6. Areas that require a Type 1 system cannot use a Type 3 system.
7. CMS uses standards from NFPA 99-2012.