Skip to main content
A recent memorandum from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) allows, in some situations, the use of batteries for essential electrical equipment in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) in the event of a power failure.

SDS Accreditation Update: CMS clarifies ASC backup power requirements

July 1, 2007

SDS Accreditation Update

CMS clarifies ASC backup power requirements

A recent memorandum from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) allows, in some situations, the use of batteries for essential electrical equipment in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) in the event of a power failure.

Ambulatory surgery centers are required to comply with the National Fire Protection Life Safety Code 2000 edition, which requires emergency power to be provided for a Type I essential electrical system in all locations using general anesthesia or electrical life support equipment.

While this emergency power usually is supplied by a generator, batteries also are permitted in ASCs, if they meet all the requirements for testing, maintenance, capacity, and rating, according to the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, Article 700, according to the CMS memo. To see the complete memorandum, go to www.fasa.org. Under "What's New," select "Medicare Clarifies Backup Power Requirements for ASCs."