The Generator Question That Can Catch You Off Guard During an AHCA Survey
When the power goes out, your generator becomes the heartbeat of your facility.
It’s one of those things that doesn’t matter — until it suddenly matters more than anything.
And yet, I see it overlooked all the time.
Why Monthly Testing Matters
Your generator should be tested every month — that means turning it on, letting it run, and making sure it operates properly.
This isn’t just about checking a box — it’s about being ready when the power fails.
Every time it’s tested, document it.
Keep a log that shows the date, who performed the test, and that the system worked.
Because when AHCA walks in, they’re not going to take your word for it — they’ll want proof.
The Difference Between Big and Small Facilities
Most large facilities have automatic generators that test themselves every month.
Those systems are often serviced by generator companies that provide testing documentation or service logs.
If that’s your setup, make sure:
- The company provides written reports regularly
- Those reports are kept in your emergency management binder and easy to access during survey
But smaller facilities are usually operating with manual or portable generators — and that’s where things get missed.
If your generator doesn’t test itself, someone on your team must:
- Turn it on
- Let it run long enough to verify it works
- Record the date, time, and result
Assign a specific person to this responsibility and make it part of your monthly checklist. Otherwise, it won’t get done consistently.
Staff Must Know How to Operate It
It’s not enough to have a working generator — your staff must know how to operate it, even when you’re not on site.
During a survey, AHCA may ask a staff member to demonstrate how to start the generator.
If they can’t, you will be cited.
That means it’s not just about documentation — it’s about training.
Every key staff member should know:
- Where the generator is located
- How to safely start it
- How long it should run
- Who to contact if there’s a problem
If you rely on an outside company for testing, make sure you still know how to start it manually — and confirm your staff does too.
Documentation Saves You
If your generator company handles testing:
✅ Keep their monthly service reports in your CEMP or emergency binder.
✅ Make sure they’re dated, signed, and easy to find during a survey.
If your staff performs manual testing:
✅ Use a monthly log sheet for every test.
✅ Include initials, date, time, and whether it passed or failed.
✅ Store it near the generator or in your CEMP binder.
That one log could be the difference between “Compliant” and “Deficient.”
Final Thought
Your generator isn’t just another piece of equipment — it’s your safety net.
When a storm hits or power fails, there’s no time to hope it works.
Test it. Document it.
And make sure your staff can operate it confidently, even if you’re not on site.
Because when AHCA asks, “Can someone show me how to start your generator?”
You don’t want hesitation — you want action.
That’s the difference between being caught off guard and being fully prepared.