The designation critical operating power systems (COPS) in Art.708 might appear to be the same as a legally required system as covered by Art. 701. Both designations are determined by government bodies or by codes. Nevertheless, Art. 701 pertains to standby systems, while Art. 708 pertains to the power systems themselves.
COPS are those portions of the premises wiring that must stay continuously operational for public safety, emergency management, national security, or business continuity [708.2]. The affected systems include, but are not limited to, power systems, HVAC, fire alarms, security, and communications [708.1].
As with Art.701 systems, these must be tested and maintained [708.7].
These systems must be commissioned, not merely built and energized. Commissioning includes taking baseline test results [708.8(C)]. From an economic sense, all systems should have baseline testing performed. Trying to maintain a system, whether critical or not, without knowing what is normal is costly. In any facility, at least take baseline test data on newly installed feeder cables.
Selective coordination is required, and a licensed PE (or other qualified person) must perform the design [708.54].
