The National Electrical Code (NEC), or NFPA 70 is a set of standards that are used to help electrical professionals install and maintain electrical systems in the United States. It is published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
The NEC has been adopted by all 50 states. After every three years, new editions are released with updated information and changes made based on industry feedback.
This article will explain why NEC, or NFPA( National Fire Protection Association) 70 exists, its structure, and its importance.
Why does National Electric Code exist?
It’s simple: safety.
If you’ve ever been in a power outage or near a downed power line, you know firsthand how dangerous electricity can be. The purpose of the NEC is to keep workers and visitors safe from electrical hazards. Over 1000 deaths occur each year as a result of electrical injuries – whether it’s due to faulty wiring, improper installation, or improper maintenance. Improper wiring may result in serious hazards like short circuits or fire hazards, which can cause property damage and disrupt daily lives.
The NEC is designed to minimize the risk of fire, shock, and other dangers associated with electrical wiring and equipment. If your premise isn’t properly wired according to these standards, it could be considered a serious safety hazard.
Structure of the National Electric Code
The NEC consists of a collection of articles divided into 9 chapters. Each chapter covers a different category of devices or equipment that uses electricity. In addition to covering general requirements for all electrical installations, each chapter includes additional specific rules applying only to equipment within that category.
For example,
- Chapter 1 contains definitions and requirements for electrical installations
- Chapter 2 covers wiring and protection
- Chapter 3 covers wiring methods and materials
- Chapter 4 covers equipment for general use such as fixture cables and cord and phase converters
- Chapter 5 special occupancies including motor dispensing facilities, bulk storage plants
- Chapter 6 addresses requirements for special conditions such as emergency systems (e.g., fire alarm signaling)
- Chapter 7 deals with special conditions such as emergency power systems (e.g., standby power)
- Chapter 8 deals with communication systems such as Radio and Television equipment
- Chapter 9 contains informative annexes A-G linked to calculations and referenced standards.
NFPA also publishes an NEC handbook (for every new version) which is a guide for anyone who wants to learn about or understand the National Electrical Code (NEC). This handbook contains the entire code, plus additional explanations and information on key concepts updated from the previous versions.
In addition, this handbook contains all amendments made throughout the period. Each section includes a comprehensive list of reference standards used in its interpretation, along with cross-references to other sections in the handbook where related information can be found.
Importance of National Electric Code
The NCE sets standards for new installations, modifications to existing systems, and repairs. It also covers specific topics such as grounding, bonding, protection from overcurrents and short circuits, wiring methods for circuit protection devices (breakers), wiring methods for equipment (fuses), installation of service equipment, use of equipment grounding conductors, installation of switches and receptacles (outlets), wiring methods for medical gas systems and other special applications, etc.
The purpose of these guidelines is to prevent fires or electrocution caused by faulty electrical installations or incorrectly wired circuits. It’s important to follow these rules because they provide a uniform way to install electrical systems safely across all states so that everyone has access to safe electrical systems regardless of where they live or work.
The Bottom Line
If you are planning to perform electrical work on your own, it is best to understand the National Electric Code so that you do not use any improper procedures. Electrical work is dangerous work, and one can be electrocuted when performing electrical work on a project. If the electrician does not follow the proper procedures laid down by the NEC, then he or she could lose their life.
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