Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) Testing

Facilities Operations and Development (FOD) is committed to providing reliable maintenance and support to our building occupants. One way we do this is through proactive, Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) testing which is required by state law. ATS devices help critical equipment switch from main power to generator power during outages. By testing these switches proactively, we are safeguarding our facilities, including the valuable research work taking place in labs, studios and offices.

For years, this testing has been conducted by FOD at the Biomedical Research Tower (BRT) and Wexner Medical Center, including in labs and operating rooms. Our team was able to uncover failures ahead of time and make proactive repairs that can lead to significant financial savings if and when a real power outage occurs. We are now staffed appropriately to offer this safeguarding across the Columbus campus.

Beginning September 1, FOD will roll out ATS testing across 70 locations where backup generators support academic, administrative and research buildings (full building list is linked below). Building coordinators and zone leaders for these spaces will be notified in advance and encouraged to share the notification with building occupants. During testing, a power blip will occur at the beginning and end of the test. The two power blips should last less than one second each which is far less time than a normal power outage switching to backup generators.

Testing will occur while buildings are fully occupied during normal business hours so that should something occur that needs manual intervention, staff are there to report issues. In our years of testing at BRT and similar buildings, we have successfully performed these tests with little interruption to daily work. Issues to equipment or devices resulting from this monthly testing should be reported to Service2Facilities by calling 614-292-4357.

Our intent is to test each building once a month on a consistent day and time. A schedule will be distributed via email to building coordinators. Anyone with questions should reach out to your zone leader. We appreciate your support in ensuring this required testing is successful.