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The correct answer is that standby power must be available for a minimum of 60 seconds during a power failure. This timeframe is significant because it ensures that fire alarm systems can continue functioning for a sufficient period to allow occupants to evacuate safely and to notify emergency services if necessary.
In many building codes and standards, specifically within the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines, this 60-second requirement reflects the need for reliability in crisis situations, where every moment counts. The system must maintain its ability to signal alarms, monitor conditions, and operate emergency communications to ensure that all these functions can continue for at least that brief yet critical duration, supporting effective emergency response without delay.
Longer durations, such as 90 seconds or more, may be required in specific applications or local codes, but the foundational requirement across many standards typically establishes 60 seconds as a baseline in order to facilitate the immediate needs of life safety systems during short-term power interruptions.