Your Facility’s Power Outage Checklist: Are You Prepared?

A well-prepared facility can handle a power outage with minimal disruption by planning ahead, protecting essential systems, and using reliable backup power.

Power outages are inevitable. Even a well-maintained electrical system can fail during severe weather, accidents, or sudden surges. While no facility can stop every outage, the disruption that follows can be controlled. Preparation is the most reliable way to keep operations steady and protect essential equipment when the power goes down.

Plan Before the Outage

The best time to respond to a power outage is before it happens. Outages can begin inside the building or from larger grid problems, so preparation should cover both. Start with a basic emergency kit and keep it in a place the whole team can access. Flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, fire extinguishers, and simple tools should be part of this kit. Many facilities also include backup phone chargers, reflective vests, and printed emergency contact lists since digital files may be inaccessible during an outage.

It is also important to document the equipment in your facility. Record model numbers, age, energy requirements, and operating conditions. This information becomes useful if a power surge damages equipment or if a storm causes widespread issues. Detailed records support insurance claims and help maintenance teams identify what needs attention after power is restored.

A reliable source of backup power is central to any plan. Some facilities can operate safely with a single backup generator and surge protection devices. Others require a more layered setup that may include standby generators, automatic transfer switches, UPS systems, and emergency battery storage. Facilities with sensitive equipment, such as medical sites, data centers, or manufacturing lines, often require additional planning to avoid damage during a sudden shutdown.

A full review of the building’s layout and power needs helps determine which systems must stay operational. This may include refrigeration, security systems, pumps, servers, or communication equipment. Once this list is clear, confirm that your emergency power system can support these loads. Train employees on the procedures they will follow during an outage. Regular training helps prevent confusion and keeps the response organized.

What To Do During an Unexpected Outage

A power outage does not need to become a crisis. When the power goes out, follow the steps created during planning. Some facilities will focus on checking system readings to make sure temperatures, pressure levels, or data systems remain within safe limits. Others will begin a slow, controlled shutdown of certain equipment to prevent damage.

Communication is essential during this stage. Make sure everyone in the building knows what is happening and understands the next steps. Confirm that emergency lights are functioning and verify that exits and walkways are safe. If your facility uses a commercial generator, check that it activated and is supplying power correctly. For facilities using UPS units or battery systems, monitor their levels so you can decide which equipment should remain active.

Take Stock and Begin Recovery

Once power is restored, begin powering systems back on in stages. A controlled restart reduces strain on equipment and makes it easier to spot any issues that developed during the outage. After the building is fully powered, inspect machinery, data systems, and temperature-sensitive equipment for signs of damage.

This is also the time to evaluate your overall response. Note what ran smoothly and what needs adjustment. A review after each outage strengthens future planning and helps prevent repeated issues.

An Outage Does Not Have To Become a Crisis — We Can Help

A power outage may be unavoidable, but serious disruption is not. GenTech’s power generation experts help facilities choose the right emergency power plan, from backup generators to complete standby systems. Contact us today to prepare your facility before the next outage arrives.

From Insights to Power: Let’s Talk Solutions

Whether you need emergency power, maintenance, or expert guidance on your generator system, Gen-Tech has you covered. Our experienced team provides industry-leading service to keep your power running when it matters most. Call (800) 625-8324 to discuss your power generation needs today!

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Your Facility’s Power Outage Checklist: Are You Prepared?

From Insights to Power: Let’s Talk Solutions