According to the Life Safety Code, how long does it allow for a standby engine to start and provide power in medical areas?

The Life Safety Code, particularly in the context of healthcare facilities, specifies that standby engines must start quickly to ensure a reliable power supply in critical areas such as medical treatment areas. The correct duration allowed for a standby engine to start and supply power in medical areas is 10 seconds. This requirement is established to ensure that essential equipment remains operational during a power outage, thereby protecting the safety of patients and maintaining the integrity of medical operations. The 10-second timeframe provides a balance between ensuring prompt power restoration and allowing for the necessary time for the generation system to stabilize and reach operational capacity. In healthcare settings, where time can be critical, this standard is a crucial element of safety protocols.