To minimize the possibility of interruption of supply, where should the additional service disconnecting means for fire pumps or emergency systems be installed?

The correct choice to minimize the possibility of interruptions in supply for fire pumps or emergency systems is to install the additional service disconnecting means remote from normal service disconnects. This approach is crucial for ensuring that in the case of a failure or maintenance need affecting the normal supply system, the emergency systems remain operational without being tied to the same disconnect.

Having the emergency or fire pump disconnects remote ensures that any adverse conditions affecting the normal service disconnects, such as circuit overload or faults that might necessitate disconnection, do not simultaneously impact the emergency supply. This strategic positioning enhances reliability, especially in critical situations where continuous operation of fire suppression or emergency systems is essential.

Installing disconnects in the same location as normal service disconnects or next to them could lead to potential risks; if the main service is compromised or disconnected, the emergency systems may inadvertently be shut down as well. Placing them in a separate building would not be practical for rapid access in emergency situations and could cause delays that can be life-threatening. Therefore, the best practice aligns with positioning the disconnects remotely from normal service outlets to secure uninterrupted operation of emergency systems.