SS 14 covers emergency power systems (14/1) that keep specified systems 1 to 13 running, such as generators and UPS units, and signs relating to those systems (14/2), such as lift load signs. Generators are typically inspected to NZS 6104 monthly and annually; signs annually.
At a glance
| Specified system | SS 14 |
| Official name | Emergency power systems for, or signs relating to, a system or feature specified in any of clauses 1 to 13 |
| Sub-categories | SS 14/1 Emergency power systems SS 14/2 Signs |
| Typical intervals | Monthly, 6-monthly and annual (varies by task; see below) |
| Standards often cited | NZS 6104 |
| Annual certificate | Form 12A from an IQP, attached to the building warrant of fitness |
What SS 14 covers
- 14/1: listed where it supplies emergency power to any of specified systems 1-13.[1]
- Examples: engine alternator for a sprinkler booster pump (SS 1), UPS for emergency lighting (SS 4), alternator for lifts (SS 8) or a dedicated smoke control system (SS 13).[1]
- 14/2: signs relating to systems in SS 1-13, e.g. lift load limit signs.[1]
- Each building's compliance schedule sets the actual inspection, maintenance and reporting procedures; frequencies below are typical examples from the cited documents.[1]
How often it is inspected
| System | Daily | Weekly | Monthly | 3-monthly | 6-monthly | Annual | 2–5 yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SS 14 Emergency power and signs | no | no | no | no |
| Task | Typical frequency | Who |
|---|---|---|
| 14/1 inspection (per NZS 6104) | Monthly run test (owner or contractor); annual (IQP) | Owner / IQP[2] |
| 14/1 inspection | Six-monthly or annually (option ticked per building) | IQP[3] |
| 14/2 sign inspection | Annual | IQP[2] |
| Keep log book | Records for previous 24 months kept on site | Owner[3] |
What an inspection typically covers
- 14/1: confirm the system will operate if the primary power supply fails.[3]
- 14/2: signs comply with the standard the related system was installed to.[2]
- 14/2: signs clearly visible and readily understandable in all foreseeable conditions (F8.3.1).[2]
Standards commonly cited
| Standard | Title |
|---|---|
| NZS 6104:1981 | Emergency electricity supply in buildings (Part 8 cited for essential maintenance)[2] |
| F8/AS1 | Acceptable Solution for Building Code clause F8 Signs (Second Edition, Amendment 4:2017), Sections 2-6, for 14/2[2] |
Titles as listed in council and MBIE documents. Inspections follow the standard and edition named in the building's compliance schedule, usually the edition the system was installed to. Changing to a different edition needs an amendment to the compliance schedule.
Building Code context
- 14/2 signs assessed against Building Code clause F8 (performance F8.3.1).[2]
Questions
How often is SS 14 inspected?
MBIE and council guidance shows tasks at these intervals: monthly, 6-monthly and annual, with an IQP certifying the system each year. The building's compliance schedule sets the actual frequency.
Which standards apply to SS 14?
Commonly cited: NZS 6104. The compliance schedule names the standard and edition for each building.
Who can certify SS 14?
An independently qualified person (IQP) registered with the council for this system. They issue a Form 12A each year, which the owner attaches to the building warrant of fitness.
Sources
- Compliance Schedule Handbook, Amendment 3 — MBIE, 14 February 2014 (first published 25 May 2007)
- Specified Systems Guidance for Customers, WBCA 003 v1.0.1 — Westland District Council BCA, 16 September 2025
- SS 14/1 compliance schedule form — Palmerston North City Council
General information only, not legal or engineering advice. Last reviewed 30 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.
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