Operational Guide · Registers & Logbooks

# Emergency Generator Test

The periodic emergency generator test and the black-out test: the difference between a successful start in a routine test and one that is truly reliable in an emergency.

SOLAS Chapter II-1 emergency generator black-out test

## Operational Explanation

The emergency generator must be able to supply electrical power to essential safety services (emergency lighting, communication equipment, fire pumps, steering gear) in the event of total loss of the main power supply. Its reliability depends on realistic periodic tests, not just a no-load start with no real load connected.

The most rigorous and informative test is the black-out test: a simulated interruption of the main power supply, verifying that the emergency generator starts automatically within the required time and correctly picks up the essential loads.

## Regulatory Reference

SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulation 43 (Emergency source of electrical power in cargo ships) and Regulation 42 (for passenger ships): the emergency generator must start automatically in the event of loss of power from the main sources, and pick up the load within 45 seconds (unless otherwise specified), with periodic tests at intervals not exceeding one month, including a simulated automatic start.

## Scope of Application

All ships subject to SOLAS Chapter II-1 fitted with an emergency generator; the full black-out test is generally required at periodic surveys and recommended more frequently by the Company's internal procedures.

## Procedure / How to Complete It

1. Carry out the monthly test of automatic start of the emergency generator, checking the load pick-up time.
2. Verify the fuel autonomy dedicated to the emergency generator against the required minimum.
3. Periodically schedule a full black-out test, with simulated interruption of the main power supply and observation of the entire emergency sequence (lighting, steering, communications).
4. Record the outcome, start-up and load pick-up times, and any anomalies in the engine log.
5. In case of failure to start automatically or a delay beyond the required time, raise a Non-Conformity and plan the technical intervention.

## Practical Example

Example entry: "Monthly emergency generator test, 03.07.2026: automatic start in 12 seconds, load pick-up normal, emergency lighting verified on all decks. No anomalies."

## Real Cases

In several PSC inspections, an emergency generator initially found "working" in a no-load test has shown, during a more rigorous black-out test requested by the inspector, a load pick-up time exceeding the limit or an inability to sustain all essential loads simultaneously — highlighting that the start test alone is not sufficient to guarantee real reliability in an emergency.

## Common Mistakes Mistake Library

Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it
--- | --- | ---
Test limited to the start alone, without verifying the actual load pick-up | Hidden faults only emerge during a real emergency or a thorough inspection | Periodically include a full black-out test, not just the no-load start
Fuel autonomy dedicated to the emergency generator not verified | Fuel shortage in a prolonged emergency | Regularly check the level and quality of fuel in the dedicated tank
Emergency lighting not verified on all decks during the test | Areas of the ship remain dark in a real emergency despite the generator working | Extend the test verification to all emergency circuits, not just the generator itself

## PSC Observations

PSCOs frequently require a practical demonstration of the emergency generator's start-up, sometimes simulating the interruption of the main power supply; abnormal start-up times or loads not correctly picked up are high-priority deficiencies.

## Operational Tips

- Don't limit yourself to the minimum monthly test: periodically schedule a realistic black-out test.
- Always verify the dedicated fuel autonomy, not just the generator's mechanical functionality.
- Precisely document start-up and load pick-up times at every test, to spot a progressive deterioration before it becomes a failure.

## Checklist

- Monthly automatic start test carried out and recorded
- Load pick-up time within the required limits
- Dedicated fuel autonomy verified
- Emergency lighting and services verified on all decks
- Periodic black-out test planned, not just a no-load start

## FAQ

Within what time must the emergency generator start and pick up the load?
The emergency generator must start automatically and pick up the essential load within 45 seconds of loss of the main power supply, unless a different specification applies to the ship type.
What is the difference between the monthly test and the black-out test?
The monthly test mainly verifies the generator's automatic start; the black-out test simulates the real interruption of the main power supply and verifies the entire emergency response sequence, including load pick-up by all essential services.
What happens if the emergency generator fails to start during a PSC inspection?
It is typically considered a serious deficiency, with possible detention, since the emergency generator is a critical safety element of the ship.
🎬 Additional photos, videos and interactive diagrams for this topic will be available in a future version of the platform.

## Related Topics

Fire Drill and Fire Safety GMDSS

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