Insights Jan/Feb 2014 by Think Baseline

Insights The magazine for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electrical and systems contractor

January/February 2014

www.ieci.org

the Code Issue

Plus

Independent Electrical contractors

+ One Nation Under Code + Keeping Estimates Accurate + Solar PV Systems and the 2014 NEC

KLEIN TOOLS. TRUSTED EVERYWHERE. FOUND HERE. DESIGNED BY ELECTRICIANS FOR ELECTRICIANS. You trust Klein Tools,® so you can always trust us to carry them. In fact, we’re the only large home improvement retailer to do so. Maybe because we know that Klein Tools are the number one preferred brand, made by electricians for electricians for more than 150 years. Built to fit your hands, designed to be long-lasting, and stocked by us. That’s the power of The Home Depot.®

homedepot.com/pro

Protect Your Business and Employees with LegalShield™ From the trivial to the traumatic and everything in between, LegalShield™ offers legal- and identity-theft protection plans designed to meet the most common issues encountered by business owners, employees, and their families. Plus, at one low monthly fee, it’s completely affordable. LegalShield offers IEC members three separate products designed to improve retention, increase production, and give your employees a benefit they can use.

Included in your plan, at no additional cost, are services such as:

LegalShield Plan For just pennies a day you can protect yourself, your family, and your employees*. (*Employees cannot ask questions about your company or use it against you in any way.) As a LegalShield member, legal assistance and peace of mind are just a phone call away. This package includes phone consultations, phone calls, letter writing, contract/document review, will preparation, and both major and minor vehicle legal expenses. IRS Audit and Trial Defense services also available.

4 Free Will & Living Will

IdentifyTheft Shield Identity-theft victims spend countless hours and an average of $1,500 according to the Federal Trade Commission. With this service, you have a toll-free number to report any problems, get regular monitoring of your credit report and expert help in restoring your name and credit.

4 Traffic Court representation (90%

For Your Business Legal Needs Stop struggling and start protecting and growing your business with two of the leading service providers in the small business market: LegalShield and GoSmallBiz.com. Simply put, LegalShield Business Plan does for business consulting and legal needs what medical insurance does for your health needs.

4 Collections 4 Child Support 4 Landlord/Tenant

rate of keeping points off license) 4 Unlimited Phone consultation on

all legal matters, even pre-existing 4 Document & Contract review 4 Letter writing to help solve disputes 4 Lawsuit coverage 4 IRS Audit 4 24-hour emergency coverage 4 25% or more discount once Child

Support, Divorce, BK, DWI hit court 4 Credit Report & Credit Score

for Employee & Spouse 4 Remove negative items or

mistakes from credit report 4 Full ID-Theft monitoring,

warning & notification anytime public record changes 4 Full restoration if ID is stolen

For more information contact Rob Vest at 703-945-3988 or go to www.legalshield.com/group/vestr

ATP and the IEC Providing the Highest Quality Training

Combining the trade knowledge of the IEC committees with the experienced professionals of our editorial staff, ATP and the IEC have worked together to develop numerous textbooks used in IEC apprenticeship and journeyman training programs. ATP training materials feature: • • • •

Descriptive illustrations Application-based examples Electronic components Numerous practical exercises

ATP values its relationship with the IEC and looks forward to many more years of working together to provide the best in training.

Your Partner in Learning

2014

Insights

Contents

January/February 2014 | The magazine for today’s electrical and systems contractor

Features

14 One Nation Under Code By Jeff Sargent

18 IEC National Codes and Standards Committee Protects the Membership By Terry Cole

20 Electrical Fire Prevention – Section 210.12 of the NEC By Thomas Domitrovich, P.E.

ONE NATION 28

UNDER CODE BY JEFFREY SARGENT

24 Keeping Your Estimates Accurate Through Code Changes By George Hague

28 Solar Photovoltaic Systems and the 2014 NEC By Mark C. Ode

32 Serving on a Code Panel Can Boost Your Business By Ken Hengst

34 Enclosures – What’s in the Box?

by Mike Weitzel

36 No Code Is Perfect: Corrections to the 2014 NEC By John Masarick

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Contents Cont’d. 10

39 columns 6 President’s Message 8 From the Editor’s Desk 10 Marketing Matters 12 Management Methods

38 IEC Foundation 39 Inside IEC 40 Featured Products 46 Safety Corner

Comments? 4

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

We want your feedback! Send comments or suggestions to communications@ieci.org.

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message

A New Path by gordon stewart

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

could not be happier with the current direction of our great association, the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC). I am extremely honored to be your 2014 IEC National President and will work relentlessly to help improve our industry and promote the merit shop philosophy. This is a job that I will approach with vigor and enthusiasm. I am thankful for those who have served in this position before me – most recently Dean Kredit (2013), Bobby Tutor (2012), and Mike Kallmeyer (2011). These gentlemen have shown me how to be a true professional and make the decisions that will positively impact the businesses of our member companies. There are many leadership skills that I have gained just by serving alongside them on the Executive Committee. Their enthusiasm and excitement for the industry and for IEC is contagious, and I want to continue that level of energy. In 2013, one of the primary objectives of the Board of Directors was to establish a new Strategic/Tactical Plan. People have asked me why we use the term “tactical” in the title when most association plans of this nature are simply called a Strategic Plan. We wanted to avoid the pitfalls of most association plans and ensure that the IEC plan was beyond strategic; it also incorporates meaningful and measureable short- and long-term goals. The goals of the new Strategic/Tactical Plan are based in four areas: Education & Training; Marketing/Development; Advocacy; and Industry Recognition/ Public Relations. Based on feedback from our peers, we determined that these are the pillars on which to grow IEC. To view the specific goals of each of these segments, please visit IEC National website at www.ieci.org/memberresources, and click IEC Governance. It will be the job of the 2014 IEC Board of Directors to work with the National Committees and National Staff to execute the details of this plan. We will continually track our progress and remain focused on

the ambitious tasks we have laid out. This will guide our path for the next three years. The Strategic/Tactical Plan is also a living document. It will be featured as an agenda item at each Board of Directors meeting and regularly updated by committees and staff. Our progress will be measured, and our targets adjusted to ensure that IEC is on a path of dynamic growth and progress. The process of putting the plan together was transparent and inclusive. We had input from contractor members, industry partners, chapter staff, and committee chairs. This collection of voices helped guide us throughout this process. Moving forward, the 2014 IEC National committees have been selected. Thank you to everyone who requested to serve on an IEC committee. We are grateful to have such dedicated individuals who will help create, execute, and evaluate all the activities and programs of IEC. Wonderful things are in store from the committees. We value your involvement in the process of creating the Strategic/Tactical Plan and in serving on 2014 National Committees. We know that serving the industry and participating with IEC takes dedication and time. Know that your service makes this industry better through improved safety standards, advocacy on issues affecting all of us, education for apprentices, and so many other areas. 2014 will be an incredible year for IEC and for the electrical contracting industry. In that spirit, I want to thank my company, Joe Swartz Electric Company in Houston, Texas. Their support has enabled me to serve IEC on the Executive Committee. The company’s participation in IEC through membership and other activities has added to the industry as a whole. Support for IEC is support for the entire electrical contracting industry. As my year as IEC President begins, I look forward to seeing you at one of the fantastic IEC events throughout the year. Join us at the 2014 IEC Leadership Conference in Austin, Texas, January 28–30.

Learn about the economy and take home solid leadership strategies to position your company for 2014. Sit in on a committee meeting and become more involved in IEC. Network and meet up with colleagues to share knowledge and business ideas. It will all be happening in Austin. Mark your calendars for the 57th Annual IEC National Convention & Electric Expo, October 22–25, 2014, in Baltimore, Maryland. The theme is Energize Your Future. IEC is planning a stellar slate of educational sessions, networking events, and an expanded expo – not to mention the Awards Gala! You cannot miss this convention. With all the exciting events and programs occurring with IEC, there is an easy way to stay on top of all the details. Visit the IEC National website at www. ieci.org for information on everything going on with the association and within the industry. Like IEC.National on Facebook, follow @IEC_National on Twitter, and connect up with colleagues in the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) group on LinkedIn. Whether it’s on your laptop, tablet, or smartphone, you can access IEC wherever you are. I was reluctant but have joined the technological movement. It is a critical component of every business. I may need a bit of hand-holding with some of the new devices and outlets but I am now a willing learner and encourage you to do the same. There are many exciting things happening in 2014 with IEC. I hope that you are taking advantage of all the value IEC membership brings. And pass it along –– IEC supports your business and your career. Together, we make the industry a greater place to work. Gordon Stewart is IEC’s 2014 National President. As the principal elected officer of the association, Stewart serves as chair to the Board of Directors, House of Delegates, and Executive Committee. He has been in the electrical industry for 35 years and is currently the General Manager at Joe Swartz Electric in Houston, Texas.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Insights MANAGEMENT

from the editor’s desk

EDITORIAL OFFICE Thayer Long, Publisher tlong@ieci.org Joseph Cephas, Editor-In-Chief jcephas@ieci.org Deborah Stadtler, Managing Editor dstadtler@ieci.org Marlise Drischler, Associate Editor mdrischler@ieci.org ADVERTISING Rich Ryan (330) 686-0353 rgrsvc@gmail.com DESIGN/ART DIRECTION Think Baseline PRINTING Mount Royal Printing 2014 IEC NATIONAL OFFICERS President Gordon Stewart, Houston, Texas Secretary/Treasurer Mark Gillespie, Clarksville, Ohio Senior Vice President Joseph Hovanec, Rahway, New Jersey Vice President Bruce Seilhammer, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania Immediate Past President Dean Kredit, Phoenix, Arizona Insights is published in January/ February, March, April, May/June, July, August, September/October, and November/December by the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. Insights Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. 4401 Ford Ave., Suite 1100 Alexandria, VA 22302 Tel: (703) 549-7351 Fax: (703) 549-7448 www.ieci.org

Established in 1957, IEC is a trade association with more than 3,000 company members and 55 chapters nationwide. Independent Electrical contractors Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, IEC is the nation’s premier trade association representing America’s independent electrical and systems contractors. IEC National aggressively works with the industry to establish a competitive environment for the merit shop – a philosophy that promotes the concept of free enterprise, open competition, and economic opportunity for all.

Season of Improvement

A new year is often a time when people make improvements in their personal lives. The change that gets the most attention is healthy living. In January, gym memberships increase exponentially and the number of diet program enrollments shoot through the roof. The beginning of a new year feels like a new start. Even if you are still working at the same place and the same project, on January 1, you walk into your place of employment with a fresh perspective. Additionally, the start of a new year is the perfect time to launch a new or improved product. So with that, I am proud to present you with the new and improved Insights magazine. The content and articles will remain similar to recent years. We will continue to present you with current and relevant articles that will help you improve your business and perform your work at a high level while keeping safety as the top priority. The major improvement of Insights is in the look and layout. The bold new appearance is attractive and more reader-friendly. We will utilize more charts and eye-catching graphics to better support the articles and drive home the important messages of the talented writers. In 2010, Insights underwent a complete relaunch including fresh content – this is not as big of a change, it is just a makeover. If you turn to the feature articles or table of contents, the changes are noticeable. Not only is this the first issue with the design changes, it is also a special edition focused solely on the 2014 National Electrical Code® (NEC)*. This new edition of the code book contains changes that are outlined in multiple articles from industry experts. Other important issues surrounding the NEC are addressed in articles from Jeffery Sargent of the National Fire Protection Association and my colleague at IEC National, John Masarick. The team of writers in this issue of Insights are some of the best ever assembled. Nearly all of the contributors represent IEC on a NEC Code Making Panel (some on multiple panels). Their unquestioned knowledge of their craft shines brightly in all of the special features. Much of the information is technical in nature and will help you better understand the new NEC. Insights is embracing the season of improvement with this issue and are starting the year off with a bang. I wish you all a prosperous 2014! We would love to hear your feedback on the new layout of the magazine. Please feel free to e-mail us your thoughts to communications@ieci.org. If you want the most up-to-date information, stay connected with IEC National by “liking” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/IEC.National, joining our group on LinkedIn, and “following” IEC National (@IEC_National) on Twitter. Also, follow our new company page (Independent Electrical Contractors) on LinkedIn. For more on IEC’s social media presence, turn to the advertisement on page 27.

Joseph G. Cephas, M.A. Vice President of Public Affairs Editor-In-Chief, Insights IEC National Follow on Twitter: @JosephCephas

*The NEC® logo is used throughout this issue of Insights. The NEC logo, NFPA 70®, National Electrical Code®, and NEC® are trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, Massachusetts.

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

Time saver Space saver NQ/NF SECTION

I-LINE SECTION

Simple, flexible, and innovative Square D I-Line Combo Panelboard combines I-Line and NQ/NF sections in one enclosure. Three sections, one panelboard ... Save valuable installation time and wall space with the Square D I-Line™ Combo Panelboard. With only one panelboard to install, this innovative combination of I-Line and NQ/NF sections saves installation time, expenses, and material costs. Plus, with a smaller footprint and flexible design, you can better meet customer needs. Available in single or duplex configurations, the I-Line Combo Panelboard comes in 26," 32," or 44" widths.

Simplify projects with new products and digital support tools. The Square D I-Line Combo Panelboard is one of several new products engineered to simplify your projects. Achieve a new level of efficiency with easy-to-source, easyto-sell, and easy-to-install products. As your trusted partner, Schneider Electric™ provides innovative products to improve your bottom line and meet customer demand. Plus, digital support tools and mobile apps help make your job easier!

Be the first to know about exciting, new products! Enjoy FREE online access to: • New product releases • Product videos and training • BIM resources, technical documents, and online digests • Mobile apps, online tools, and calculators • Marketing materials and business growth tips

See why contractors prefer the I-Line Combo! Watch the video and enter to WIN Samsung Galaxy Gear (a $299 value)!

Visit www.SEreply.com Key Code f938u ©2014 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. Schneider Electric, Square D, and I-Line are trademarks owned by Schneider Electric Industries SAS or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. • www.schneider-electric.com • 998-1225275_US_GalaxyGear

Marketing Matters

Contractor Excels

in Customer Service, Customer Retention, and Customer Reviews By Adams Hudson

ixie Electric Company is certainly not new to the electrical business, having been in operation since 1908. Until recent years, commercial and construction were their mainstays, and residential service was viewed merely as a side business. Now the tables have turned a bit, given disruptions in the economy, and their attention on the residential market has proven to be a sound investment.

“The residential market itself has continued to grow and has continued to be a big part of our business. It’s a consistent source of revenue,” said Noble Yelverton, Dixie Vice President. “Construction has been up and down. Our service was our one consistent area.” To turn this refocus into its ultimate potential, the Dixie team keyed in on customer service. “There was a void in our market of people that gave good customer service,” Yelverton said. “There are so few people who do that in the services industry. We’ve been able to accomplish that.” As they started to exceed expectations in how well they treated customers, Yelverton said customer after customer was pleasantly surprised that Dixie Electric took good care of them, that their techs used booties, and that they went in and did what they said they were going to do. Not surprisingly, residential service kept growing. “Our goal every year is to grow 15 percent. This year it’s 16 percent,” Yelverton said. “Even in a bad economy, we kept growing 15 percent.” With a strong customer service program in place, a sound foundation is laid

for customer retention and referral marketing. “We try through direct mail to touch our customers seven times a year,” Yelverton said. Two times through their customer newsletter, which has proven to yield a higher return rate than other direct mail pieces. “We track all of our calls. We’ve got it down to a science. We get a higher response rate from a newsletter ad that has a smaller call to action on it.” To explain, he cited the example that if the newsletter ad has a $20 coupon, it gets a better response rate than an offer with a $35 coupon from another mailing. “The newsletter is big for us,” Yelverton said. “It’s a great way to reach customers.” With strong customer service and a solid customer retention program in place, Dixie has also added a push for customer reviews on sites such as Facebook, Google+, and Superpages. “That was a great idea,” he said. “Word of mouth is more online now than it is out of someone’s mouth.” Word of mouth about Dixie is spreading quite well online. In their first year of requesting reviews, they had 411 reviews posted across multiple sites. “There are 30 or 40 places where customers post.”

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

Dixie is now just at the start of their second year in a review program, but it is definitely making a difference. “We get a lot of reviews online,” Yelverton said. “We have had other customers say they saw our reviews.” And, he added, “It’s helped us with Google.” As more reviews are posted, Dixie rises in search engine results. “It’s the best of both worlds. It helps us on the technology side and helps us gain other customers. It helps us look even more reputable.” Of course, it all goes back to their initial goal. Dixie Electric wouldn’t be able to push for customer reviews if they hadn’t laid the groundwork by providing excellent customer service. “That’s a key element of doing business,” Yelverton said. “We’re completely comfortable asking for reviews.” Adams Hudson is president of Hudson, Ink, a national marketing firm for contractors and an IEC National Bronze Industry Partner. Insights readers can get the free report “17 Ways to Exceed Expectations” and a free subscription to the industry’s top training resource, the Sales & Marketing Insider eNewsletter, by e-mailing a polite request to INSIGHTS@hudsonink.com or by calling (800) 489-9099.

Lighting: The Biggest Opportunity to SAVE in Energy-Efficient Retrofits

[QHC - LEd]

[HBH - Fluorescent]

[vPL - LEd]

[P2]: Manufacturing Energy-Efficient Fluorescent & LED Lighting Solutions HavE a REtRoFit oPPoRtuNitY? CoNtaCt us todaY FoR: Direct Support Field Support Application Solutions

[P2] WEst

23281 La Palma ave. Yorba Linda, Ca 92887 tel: (714) 386-5550 Fax: (714) 386-5649

[P2] MidWEst

623 Brakke dr. Hudson, Wi 54016 tel: (715) 381-2971 Fax: (715) 381-5597

[P2] East

317 NE 35th ave. Gainesville, FL 32609 tel: (352) 692-5900 Fax: (352) 692-5901

serving You With 16 CLMCs and 2 CsLCs and Growing

Management Methods

Warning: By Jeff Krogen

hen looking at the entire cost to own a vehicle versus reimbursing drivers at the 2013 IRS rate of 56.5 cents a mile, a company-provided vehicle can cost considerably less. Operating a fleet enables businesses greater control of the ownership-related expenses such as depreciation, interest, tax, registration fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. Right-sizing both the vehicle and the fleet can go a long way toward decreasing the operating expense even in lower mileage applications. But unlike the vehicle’s dashboard, there are no blinking lights to warn businesses that reimbursing drivers for using their own vehicles could be dangerous to the bottom line. One reason company-provided vehicles might be more advantageous than reimbursement is the increasing availability of vehicles with smaller, more efficient engines, resulting in lower fuel spend. In a recent analysis for a midsize sedan, instead of paying 56.5 cents a mile to reimburse a driver, the total cost of ownership for a company-owned vehicle was 44.4 cents a mile. This generated a savings of $7,260 per vehicle based on a savings of 12.1 cents per mile for 60,000 miles over four years. Multiplied by the number of company-provided vehicles in a fleet, the savings can be significant. In addition to the hard costs savings, some drivers that are reimbursed may be driving vehicles that are unreliable and require frequent repairs that can take precious time and may not be completed by the most qualified repair facility. Reimbursing drivers whose own vehicles may be older and less reliable also can lead to lost revenue due to missed appointments when vehicles break down and are out of service.

Reimbursement Can Cost More Than a Company-Owned Fleet

Newer, well-maintained vehicles can present a better brand image, as well as improve driver satisfaction, retention, and safety. But the most important decision is to choose the right vehicle to achieve the best balance of cost and performance. A fleet management professional can help ensure drivers are equipped with the best vehicle for their job and the business’ bottom line. He or she can assist with proper vehicle and equipment selection to help drive down depreciation by managing both the acquisition and remarketing processes. Additionally, operating costs can be minimized with a company-owned fleet with a managed maintenance program to monitor and ensure regular service checks, examine invoices for accuracy, and arrange the most economical, timely, and high-quality repairs for fleet vehicles. This program also can yield maximum warranty benefits, rebates, price breaks, and other opportunities to minimize expenses. Finally, a fuel card program can automatically monitor fuel purchases and mileage for each vehicle, while

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

giving drivers maximum access to the most convenient fueling stations. With newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles, the resulting savings can be significant. According to a recent article in Automotive Fleet (July 9, 2013), calculating the breakeven point of a company vehicle can be complex: “Three factors that influence the breakeven point of a lease versus reimbursement analysis are residual values and net depreciation, vehicle miles per gallon and fuel per gallon pump prices, and reimbursement rate.” The article concludes that comparison calculations of company-provided vehicles versus driver reimbursement favor the company-provided option. Jeff Krogen is Corporate Remarketing Manager for Enterprise Fleet Management. For more information about Enterprise Fleet Management’s environmental stewardship and long-term commitment to the sustainability of the fleet management business, visit http://drivingfutures.com/ fleetmanagement/. For more information about Enterprise Fleet Management, visit www.efleets.com or call (877) 23-FLEET.

Wire Connectors

FACTOR IN:

Fully meets the new NEC and CEC codes for fluorescent fixtures with ballasts

FACTOR IN:

Push-in technology saves time and increases productivity

“ Touch-safe” design reduces electrical shock hazard

The Orange Factor

For dimming and switching

Model 182 2-Wire FACTOR IN:

Small size easily fits through a 1/2 inch knockout

For new installations

Model 103 3-Wire

When the job is done with PowerPlug™, the job is done right—safely, efficiently and to code. For ballast retrofitting and new lighting installations, there is no other luminaire disconnect like the industry leader, IDEAL PowerPlug.

FACTOR IN:

Model 102 2-Wire

For retrofit installations

Internal safety latch ensures a safe, secure connection

FACTOR IN:

Marked for easy circuit identification

Model 183 3-Wire

For retrofit dimming and switching ™

Luminaire Disconnect

ONE NATION UNDER CODE BY JEFFREY SARGENT

Insights Magazine ||January/February January/February2014 2014| www.ieci.org | www.ieci.org

Feature

he multiple benefits of a single electrical code that could be uniformly applied and enforced throughout the United States was recognized early on by the electrical industry and provided the impetus for creating the first National Electrical Code® (NEC). While different geographic areas may create unique installation considerations (e.g. proximity to salt water, identified seismic areas, corrosive soil conditions, or flooding), the overwhelming majority of requirements in the NEC® are applicable whether the installation is located in Key West, Florida, or Nome, Alaska. A single set of requirements affecting product construction that provided for uniform enforcement and allowed for the development of national training programs are attributes of a single document that could be used to regulate electrical installations. The fact that every statewide electrician’s licensing examination is based in whole or in part on the NEC has been a significant factor in the willingness of a number of states to enter into reciprocal licensing agreements allowing the electrical workforce to move around the country to seek employment when work in their home state is lean. One electrical installation code used throughout the country enables the electrical industry to move forward in a common direction. The August 2013 issuance of the 2014 NEC by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards Council marks the 53rd edition of this country’s most widely recognized, adopted, and enforced construction code. Since the first edition in 1897, the NEC has been revised on a regular basis in order to stay current with the electrical construction industry that relies on it to provide the necessary rules for safe electrical installations in residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial settings. More so than probably any other system in a building, the electrical system is impacted by advances in technology. Whether it is a new method to distribute and control electrical energy, advancements in circuit protective equipment, an alternative means to generate electrical energy, or providing for the infrastructure needed to support “green” initiatives, it is imperative that

the NEC be regularly updated so that its requirements are relevant to the industry that relies on it to establish the benchmark for the necessary level of safety. Since 1911, the NFPA has been the sponsor of the NEC. The connection between NFPA and the NEC is not understood by many of those who use the document. Simply stated, NFPA is the organization responsible for producing and publishing of the “book.” NFPA’s mission of fire, building, and electrical safety is reflected in its many activities, and the development of codes and standards is one of its important functions. The NEC, also known as NFPA 70, is one of nearly 300 codes, standards, and recommended practices for which NFPA is responsible. All of these documents have a specific scope and purpose as it relates to carrying forth the NFPA mission. For most in the electrical industry, the NEC is NFPA’s best known and most widely used code, but other documents such as NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace; NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code; and NFPA 79, Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery are other NFPA documents that are used by the industry.

Creating the First Code Those who gathered to create the first National Electrical Code were visionary. Recognizing the tremendous potential that electrical power offered to a country in the midst of another industrial revolution, the proponents also understood that standardization of wiring methods, equipment, and installation requirements was necessary to promote electrical industry growth. Prior to 1897, five regional electrical codes existed in the United States, and there were also electrical codes being used in Britain and Europe. Seizing the tremendous opportunity to develop a single national electrical installation standard, a group of interested parties met in New York City in March 1896. Attending this meeting were representatives of the American Society of Electrical Engineers, American Institute of Architects, National Street Railway Association, International Association of Fire Engineers, Underwriters Continued on page 16 >

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature < Continued from page 15

Laboratories, Factory Mutual, American Telephone & Telegraph, and General Electric. Interestingly, several of these founding organizations continue today as participants in the National Electrical Code development process. Using the five regional U.S. electrical codes, plus the Electrical Rules of Germany, The Rules of the British Board of Trade, and the Phoenix Insurance Rules for Electrical Installations (a London-based property insurer) as their starting point, this group developed an electrical installation code that could be used from coast to coast. A fundamental principle that this group set their compass by was a national set of rules for safe electrical installations not only had to have a solid technical basis, they also had to be practical in application. The phrase “the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity” used in the purpose statement of today’s NEC remains a key element for developing new and revised electrical safety requirements. The draft document created by this group was circulated to more than 1,200 experts from around the United States and in Europe for review and comment. Once finalized, the National Conference on Standard Electrical Rules issued the first National Electrical Code in 1897. Now, electrical installations from Maine to California could be performed using a single set of electrical installation rules. Manufacturers could nationalize their products, a concept impeded by the existence of five regional electrical codes in the United States prior to 1897. Revisions to the first NEC occurred regularly as new products, new methods, and new information became available to the industry. The revision cycle was not necessarily fixed, and between the 1897 and 1959 editions the revision cycle extended one, two, three, or during World War II (1943 to 1947), four years. Since 1959, the NEC has been revised on a regular three-year basis with the only apparent anomaly being between the 1971 and 1975 editions. However this was not a four-year revision cycle, rather it was that the 1975 NEC was the first

edition to be “post-dated,” which simply means that the edition date is the year following the date when the next NEC is issued by the NFPA Standards Council.

The Revision Process Making sure the NEC stays current with the industry it is used to regulate is extremely important and the reason why timely updates are necessary. Without regular updates the NEC could lag behind current trends in the industry and possibly hamstring implementation of new technology. The NFPA codes and standards development process, accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), is open to anyone, and therein lays the strength of the NEC. Revisions to the document are initiated by those who are impacted by its requirements. Submitting ideas to change the Code and commenting on those ideas only requires the time involved to put the concept into words using NFPA’s online public input and public comment portals. The genesis of any change to the NEC is the submission of a public input (formerly known as proposal) to the technical body (known as Code Making Panels in the NEC process) that is comprised of subject matter experts representing major groups of stakeholders impacted by the requirements of the NEC. IEC has a principal and an alternate member on the Correlating Committee and on the 19 Code Making Panels. As part of being accredited by ANSI, NFPA’s Codes and Standards development process has to be open, transparent, absent of dominance by any single group, and afford due process to those who participate. Consensus, achieved by a 2/3 affirmative vote of the Code Making Panel, is necessary in order to move the process forward and eventually revise the Code. The three-year revision process affords ample time for the initial public input, the actions taken by the Code Making Panels, comment on the initial actions, correlation of the entire document by another group of subject matter experts known as the Correlating Committee, an opportunity for NFPA membership to vote

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

on amending motions, and adjudication of any appeals by the Standards Council. Once all the steps in the process have been completed, the document is issued by the Standards Council and approximately 20 days thereafter, officially becomes the next edition of the NEC. It is truly an amazing process that has served the industry it is used to regulate very well, and it fulfills the stated purpose of practically safeguarding persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity, which is so important to a society that relies heavily on safe and reliable electrical power for countless numbers of daily activities at home, at work, where they go to school, where they go to receive medical treatment, and where they go for recreation. The process of keeping the NEC up to date never stops. Work on the 2017 edition of the NEC has already begun. Correlating Committee Chair Michael Johnston has appointed task groups to work on a number of different issues and initiatives, including emerging technologies. Soon, the public will have the opportunity to use the new online public input platform to submit their ideas for revisions to the 2017 NEC. Information on the next edition of the NEC is available at www.nfpa.org/codesand-standards/document-information-pa ges?mode=code&code=70&tab=nextedi tion. Don’t be an observer, participate in the process. It is the users of the NEC who know best how its requirements impact what they do, and it is those users who have the ideas that allow the Code to keep pace with the electrical industry.

Code Adoption The continued evolution of the NEC to keep up with advances in the electrical industry was recognized many years ago by those involved with the first edition. It was realized at that time that the NEC would have to be revised regularly so as not to fall behind. NFPA, as a private, independent, not-for-profit standards development organization, affords an open and fair process for the development of a document with such wide-reaching impact.

Once the Code Making Panels have completed their work and the Standards Council has issued the next edition, there is still important work to do. In one of this nation’s best examples of an effective private/public relationship, NFPA offers its codes and standards to regulatory bodies at any level of government to be incorporated into administrative rules or statutory requirements. Throughout the country, agencies charged with public safety by regulating construction or construction trades adopt construction safety codes. The NEC is used by federal, state, and municipal bodies of government to provide the necessary regulations to ensure safe electrical installations. The code adoption step is absolutely critical to making sure that the regulatory community has the most up-to-date tools to perform their important public safety function. Unfortunately, adoption processes have become more politically charged in recent years, and this has not benefited the regulators, the construction industries they regulate, or the public who benefit from the known benefits of construction safety codes. Healthy debate is part of the political process, but undue influence on the part of special interests compromises the integrity of the process, and when it comes to construction codes, it compromises the ability of an industry to move forward because the latest construction codes are not being adopted on a timely basis. Members of the electrical industry and members of the general public are best served when the latest edition of the NEC is part of their lives. Get involved in your town or state to make sure that the NEC’s 116-year success story is a continuing one.

IEC Members of the National Electrical Code® Committee Code Making Panel

Principal

Alternate

Correlating David Hittinger Lawrence Ayer Committee 1 David Hittinger

Benjamin Dunford

2 Robert Wilkinson Stephen Thorwegen, Jr. 3

Adam Corbin Louis Petrucci, Jr.

Vincent Zinnante Tim LaLonde

5 Scott Harding Mike Querry 6

G.W. Kent

Peter Bowers

Chris Fahrenthold

William (Britt) Crist

Kenneth Hengst Michael Weitzel

Kevin Breen Eddie Rodriguez

Julian Burns (Chair) Steve Struble

11 Terry Cole Terry Cromer 12 Duke Schamel

William (Britt) Crist

13 Ronald Keenan Lawrence Ayer Jeff Sargent is a Regional Electrical Code Specialist with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In this role, he supports state and local jurisdictions with the adoption and use of the NEC. Prior to joining NFPA’s Regional Operations Division in 2011, he was a member of NFPA’s Electrical Engineering Department for 15 years and served as managing editor of the 2011 National Electrical Code Handbook and as co-editor of the 2012 NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace Handbook. He is a regular columnist for NFPA Journal, writing about the NEC® and other electrical safety topics and is co-author of the Electrical Inspection Manual with Checklists.

14 Robert Jones (Chair) Larry Burns 15

James Seabury, III

Carmon Colvin

16 Luigi Prezioso David Schrembeck 17 Marcos Ramirez Dennis Baker 18 Ron Alley Robert Carlock 19 David Johnson

William Bruce Bowman

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

IEC National Codes and Standards Committee

Protects the Membership By terry cole

ECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Codes and Standards Committee is often thought of as the committee that helps make rules and regulations. While this is true, the real reason the committee exists is to protect the interests and safety of IEC members. The National Electrical CodeÂŽ (NEC) is a document that sets the standards for the safety of everyone when it comes to installing and using electricity. This article is a brief discussion of one of the attempts by the committee to protect IEC members through proposing a change in the NEC.

Ground Wire Safety During the 2011 code cycle report on proposals (ROP), there was a proposal to require a ground wire in all outside heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) feeder and branch circuits so that the conduit was not the primary grounding path. Evidence was presented to Panel 11 as to why this was necessary. One example involved a young boy in Chicago who was walking down the street and decided to jump up on top of a heat pump unit. When he did so, he reached over and grabbed hold of a chain link fence and was electrocuted. The flex feeding the heat pump had separated, and the hot wire had gone to ground. After much debate, the proposal was approved by a narrow margin. This proposal was not unique in its concept because there are several states that require an additional ground wire in rooftop units. The reason for this is because electrical metallic tubing can separate rather easily when exposed to harsh conditions. Two examples of instances when these hazards may exist are re-roofing and snow removal.

Protecting Electrical Contractors Protecting IEC members is a primary concern when considering whether a code change is desirable. IEC decided to conduct a survey of the membership to find out how big of a problem the lack of an additional ground wire was. Half of the respondents said they have seen separated conduits running across rooftop feeding equipment. Recently, an electrical contracting company was called to a restaurant to find out why the rooftop HVAC equipment was not running properly. Upon investigation, the contractors found the conduit feeding the equipment had separated, and there was no ground wire installed in the conduit. Taking precautionary measures, the contractors donned rubber gloves before attempting to reconnect the conduit. When the two ends of the conduit touched each other, they shorted out. One of the hot wires had gone to ground, and there was no return path to ground to trip the breaker. This could have easily resulted in a serious injury or death.

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

Imagine grabbing two ends of the conduit, one in each hand, and completing a circuit through the chest and heart. When servicing rooftop equipment that is isolated from ground, always use caution in touching the equipment and take proper precautionary measures.

Moving the Proposal Forward During the report on comments, the technical correlating committee sent the proposal back to Panel 11 and said that this was not in the purview of the committee, but rather Panels 5 and 8. Because of the importance of this issue, IEC was asked to be on a task group with Panel 8 to see if there was a solution that correlated with all the affected panels. The result was a proposal put together by the efforts of both panels to require an additional ground wire in non-threaded conduit feeding outside HVAC equipment. Again, after much debate, the proposal was passed. However, the manufacturers filed a notice of intent to make a motion on the floor of the annual National Fire Protection Association

How to Change the Code A new edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC) is printed every three years. As soon as an edition is released, work starts to revise the NEC for the next edition. There are three stages to the development of a new code book. The three stages are the input stage and a first draft of the code, the comment stage and a second draft of the code, and final motions and approval. In the input stage, a change is submitted by anyone wishing to change the 2014 NEC. The deadline to submit an idea for consideration of the 2017 NEC is October 31, 2014, if submitted by paper and November 7, 2014, if submitted online. The form can be found at: www.ieci.org/media/media/download/1057. You need to submit the following information: Name. (NFPA) meeting to reject the proposal. The argument was that Article 250.118 already lists acceptable methods of bonding. IEC had support from both the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers to pass this proposal because those who are in the field recognize the hazards that can be encountered with this type of installation. Both organizations stated they had seen numerous examples of conduit that had separated. The end result was that the proposal failed by one vote on the floor of the NFPA meeting. IEC has determined that we will continue to try and get this proposal incorporated into the 2017 code. It is for hazards like this that it is important for IEC to watch out for the best interests of everyone in the electrical contracting field. If there are safety issues you have come across that need to be addressed, the Codes and Standards Committee encourages you to make a proposal. If you do not know how to make a proposal, the committee is there to help you through the process. The next ROP is in November 2014. IEC is a leader in influencing our industry, and we need your input in order to accomplish this goal. Terry Cole is President of Hamer Electric in Longview, Washington. Cole has been in the electrical industry since 1973. He has helped develop electrical codes and standards for both the State of Washington and for NFPA 70 on Panels 4 and 11. Presently, he is chairman of the IEC National Codes and Standards Committee.

The section and paragraph of the standard exactly as you would like to see it written.

Telephone number. E-mail address. The title of the NFPA standard you wish to change (NEC). The number and year of the standard you wish to change (NFPA 70, 2014 NEC). The section number and paragraph you wish to change.

Reasoning to substantiate or justify why you believe the code should be changed. Be as specific and provide as much data as possible. Do research, count injuries, record excessive costs, or misunderstandings within the code. You will be asked by NFPA to allow them to print your proposal or comment in the first or second draft.

The IEC National Codes and Standards Committee can help you complete the form and will provide suggestions to give you a better chance of acceptance. Please send your completed form to codes@ieci.org. After public input has been submitted, members of the NEC Code Making Panels debate the merit of each submittal and approve or disapprove the proposed code change. A report called the First Draft is created and made available to the public. The second stage begins when the public is asked to submit comments (Comment Stage) on the First Draft. After public comment has been submitted on the First Draft, members of Code Making Panels debate the merit of each submittal and approve or disapprove of comments to change the First Draft. After the Code Making Panels have met, a report called the Second Draft is created and made available to the public. The third stage is final approval. If a submitter of a change is not satisfied with the First or Second Draft, they may submit a motion and address all NFPA voting members in an attempt to get support for their submittal. This stage is held at an NFPA Conference where all NFPA members can vote on the Second Draft and any motion discussed during the meeting. The result of the voting will become the 2017 NEC. You may submit input to recommend a new and better product or material for labor savings or safety. You may wish to submit input because a product is obsolete or the code is simply wrong for installers. Please consider submitting a change to make the electrical industry better and safer for contractors, employees, and our customers.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

Electrical Fire Prevention –

Section 210.12 of the NEC By Thomas Domitrovich, P.E.

The story of the arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is an interesting one as it is technical in nature, wrapped in controversy, fueled by passion, and delivers a positive electrical safety impact to the electrical industry. The 2014 National Electrical Code® (NEC) again modified Section 210.12, expanding AFCI coverage and providing more options. When you open your code book to Section 210.12 this year, don’t let the size of the section intimidate you. It’s not all that big of a change.

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

The Early Years

rom an NEC perspective, it was during the NEC 1996 development process that the need for this technology was identified to the electrical industry through the NFPA 70 development process. Proposal 10-97 brought forth the following proposed language: “Section 240-83 (f) Circuit Breakers In Dwelling Units. (New title & text.) Circuit breakers for 15A and 20A branch circuits supplying receptacles in living and sleeping areas of dwelling units, in accordance with Section 210-20 (b), shall be listed and shall be marked ‘LIT’ (low instantaneous trip).”

The submitter shared Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) data of fire statistics and study information that was used as the foundation for the work that Code Making Panel (CMP) 2 continues to this day. The submitter of this proposal was seeking to achieve the goal of arcing fault protection noting in the substantiation that, “Evidence exists that present safety standards and national codes do not adequately address the risk of fire resulting from arcing shorts in branch circuits, fixture wiring, extension cords, and power supply cords (i.e., the power supply system).” The panel rejected this proposal with a panel statement that, “The substantiation included with the proposal is insufficient to show that lowering the instantaneous trip levels will adequately address fires due to low level arcing faults in damaged appliances and extension cords. A more complete analysis of cord problems and alternate solutions, such as alternate cord constructions, supplemental overcurrent protection, reduced appliance inrush, and electronic sensing means is needed. Mandating these lower instantaneous trip levels will result in a false level of security from arcing faults. The submitter has not provided any compelling evidence to show that existing branch circuit overcurrent protection devices do not protect premises wiring as required in Article 240.” In the historical documents around this topic, it is quite clear that the molded

case circuit breaker, listed to UL Standard 489, “Molded-Case Circuit Breakers, Molded-Case Switches, and CircuitBreaker Enclosures,” was under the microscope; in some cases identified as devices that are not performing as they should. The electrical industry, including manufacturers, standards developers, and other experts, began the process to create the standard for the device that would address the identified problem, the electrical fire. The process included more studies, research, and fire data, and the final product is what we know today as UL 1699 “Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupters.” You can trace the origins of this UL standard to 1997, shortly after the code panel debates and introduction of the electrical fire problem to the electrical industry. Important lessons can be learned as a result of the debates around this topic. Many people thought, and probably some still do today, that a standard thermal magnetic circuit breaker protects all wire in the circuit from all types of faults, even those wires that are plugged into receptacles. Some that are quite familiar with the NEC will point out Section 210.20, “Overcurrent Protection,” which states, “Branch-circuit conductors and equipment shall be protected by overcurrent protective devices that have a rating or setting that complies with 210.20(A) through (D).” This section has to be read in its entirety to understand that the overcurrent protective device is there to protect the wire behind the walls. The outlet devices, flexible cords, and fixture wires are not afforded overcurrent protection as part of this section by the upstream circuit breaker. As pointed out in Section 210.20(B), “Conductor Protection,” flexible cords and fixture wires are provided protection as part of Section 240.5, “Protection of Flexible Cords, Flexible Cables, and Fixture Wire.” Supply cords of listed appliances or luminaires are considered protected where the flexible cord or tinsel cord is approved for and used with a specific listed appliance or luminaire when applied within the appliance or luminaire listing requirements. The flexible cords used in extension cord

sets are considered protected when applied within the extension cord listing requirements. Combination-type AFCI devices provide additional protection of installed wiring and extends protection to connected cords. One could argue that these devices provide protection for connected appliances as well as evidenced by various product recalls due to the AFCI identifying the problem and tripping. It was the 1999 NEC that first introduced the AFCI. In the proposal phase of the process, Proposals 2-128, 2-129, and 2-130 were those that introduced this technology to CMP 2. The comment phase saw a total of 30 comments, comments 2-55 through 2-85. It was in comment 2-56 where the proposer pointed out that, “Arc-fault circuit interrupters protection was proposed for the 1996 NEC but was not labeled as such in the Report on Proposals Reports of the 1995 meeting for the 1996 NEC Proposal 10-97 (240-83(f))(new) Log No. 2066. I supported its use then and now . . . I am in general agreement with the comments of Proposals 2-128, 2-129, and 2-139 of the 1998 Report on Proposals and believe this should become a NEC requirement.” The 1999 NEC began the history of AFCIs in the NEC with the following language. “210-12. Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection. (a) Definition. An arc-fault circuitinterrupter is a device intended to provide protection from the effects of arc faults by recognizing characteristics unique to arcing and by functioning to de-energize the circuit when an arc fault is detected. (b) Dwelling Unit Bedrooms. All branch circuits that supply 125-volt, singlephase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets installed in dwelling unit bedrooms shall be protected by an arc-fault circuit interrupter(s). This requirement shall become effective January 1, 2002.” And it has been changing ever since. Continued on page 22 >

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature < Continued from page 21

2014 NEC Changes This code cycle appears to have made a lot of changes to Section 210.12 of the NEC, but in reality we have some expansion, three more options to achieve protection of the entire branch circuit and connected cords, and some reorganizing. Let’s examine these changes one at a time.

Expansion

Section 210.12 (A) now includes AFCI protection requirements for kitchens and laundry areas. These two new areas of the home are unique in that they also have requirements for ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). Combined with a requirement that both the AFCI and the GFCI must be readily accessible, it makes for a challenge to address such appliances as dishwashers, garbage disposals, and even refrigerators where they are within six feet of the edge of a sink. Providing solutions that are readily accessible may be challenging but not impossible. Another subtle expansion in this section of the NEC is the addition of the words “or devices” to the first sentence of this requirement. The new language reads, “All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices . . . ” require AFCI protection. This impacts those switches, like a light switch, that may be located in one of the rooms that have this requirement. A good example would be a light switch in the kitchen that controls outside lights. AFCI protection would be required for that branch circuit, which essentially expands AFCI in this example to the outside lighting. Another area of expansion included a new requirement for dormitories. Section 210.12(c) was added noting, “All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dormitory unit bedrooms, living rooms,

hallways, closets, and similar rooms shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter meeting the requirements of 210.12(A)(1) through (6) as appropriate.” Dormitories are those college and similar rooms that house students. These are little

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

living areas that have some of the comforts of home and many more additions by the students themselves who can at times be quite creative. Fire statistics drove this new requirement as well.

New Options

The presence of a receptacletype AFCI device, an outlet branch circuit (OBC) AFCI, on the market is driving the need to define additional options for the application of these products in new construction ensuring equivalent protection of the entire branch circuit and connected cords. The OBC AFCI device does not offer the same level of protection as the combination-type AFCI circuit breaker. The CMP wanted to ensure an equivalent provision for the proper application of these devices. The following three options were added to 210.12(A): (2) Listed branch/feeder AFCI circuit breaker with an OBC AFCI device at the first outlet. There are no restrictions when these two devices are used together other than the OBC AFCI device must be at the first outlet, and the first outlet box in the branch circuit must be marked. (3) A listed supplemental arc protection circuit breaker with an OBC AFCI device at the first outlet with the following restrictions for the application: a. The branch-circuit wiring shall be continuous from the branchcircuit overcurrent device to the outlet branch-circuit AFCI. b. The maximum length of the branchcircuit wiring from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the first outlet shall not exceed 15.2 m (50 feet) for a 14 AWG conductor or 21.3 m (70 feet) for a 12 AWG conductor. c. The first outlet box in the branch circuit shall be marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit. (4) A listed OBC AFCI installed at the first outlet on the branch circuit in combination with a listed branch-circuit overcurrent protective device with the following restrictions for the application: a. The branch-circuit wiring shall be continuous from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the outlet branchcircuit arc-fault circuit interrupter.

The key takeaway here is that for AFCI solutions, the OBC AFCI and the combination-type AFCI circuit breaker are the two work horses of AFCI protection.

b. The maximum length of the branchcircuit wiring from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the first outlet shall not exceed 15.2 m (50 feet) for a 14 AWG conductor or 21.3 m (70 feet) for a 12 AWG conductor. c. The first outlet box in the branch circuit shall be marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit. d. T he combination of the branchcircuit overcurrent device and outlet branch-circuit AFCI shall be identified as meeting the requirements for a system combination type AFCI and shall be listed as such. Of these new options, at the time of this writing, the branch/feeder AFCI solution is the only one for which listed products exist. The standards behind the products for options (3) and (4) are still under construction. When leveraging options (3) and (4) above, the restrictions are important to observe, understand, and follow. Electrical inspectors will be looking to ensure each of these restrictions are in place. The key takeaway here is that for AFCI solutions, the OBC AFCI and the combination-type AFCI circuit breaker are the two work horses of AFCI protection. You can use them both in new construction today. When applying the OBC AFCI receptacle-type device, care must be taken to ensure you meet the requirements

of the code. The provisions for the OBC AFCI that have been in the code remain as options instead of exceptions. Options (5) and (6) are what we used to know as exceptions in previous editions of the NEC and can be leveraged today for the application of the OBC AFCI device. The AFCI is a device that is technical in nature, wrapped in controversy, fueled by passion, and delivers a positive electrical safety impact to the electrical industry. For examples of found electrical problems, visit www.afcisafety.org often as there is a document on that website that provides examples of found electrical problems. Together we can make a difference. Thomas Domitrovich, P.E., is a National Application Engineer with IEC Platinum Partner Eaton Corporation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has more than 20 years of experience as an Electrical Engineer and is a LEED Accredited Professional. Domitrovich is active in various trade organizations on various levels with IEC, International Association of Electrical Inspectors, Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), National Electrical Manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association (NEMA), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Thomas is involved with and chairs various committees for NEMA and IEEE and is an alternate member on NFPA 73. He is very active in the state-by-state adoption process of NFPA 70, working closely with review committees and other key organizations in this effort.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

Keeping Your Estimates Accurate

Through Code Changes

by George Hague

hanges to the electrical code are typically viewed as primarily impacting the jobsite, but what every good estimator knows is that anything that affects the jobsite should feed back into the estimate. After all, the estimate’s performance is proven by how accurately it predicts how the job is completed. With this in mind, we will look at some examples from recent changes to the National Electric Code® (NEC)—both this year and previously—that can directly affect the accuracy of your bid and your business. One of the more frequent changes to the code is in adding or changing devices. A good example from the 2014 update is a requirement for an emergency shutdown system on photovoltaic (solar power) systems that can activate within 10 seconds. As jurisdictions begin adopting this code section (690.12), bids will need

to carry this expense and labor. Even if you have not bid solar in the past, expect to see it more frequently as solar energy again appears to be rising in popularity after the recession slowdown. Contractors handling mostly residential work can be affected by the NEC’s device changes too. For 2014, the past trend of requiring more GFCI- and AFCI-protected circuits continues. The new code now requires GFCI protection on hidden

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

receptacles that are within six feet of a sink (210.8 (A)(7)) and AFCI protection for kitchen and laundry circuits (210.12). The material cost over traditional devices can quickly add up, even if the labor is the same. Miss these new requirements on a large remodel or new house, and your company will end up paying for it through deficiencies and customer callbacks.

Continued on page 26 >

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Power In Software Integration

The hand-off of information from estimating to project management is like a relay race in track and field. This quick hand-off of a detailed estimate will allow your project management team to hit the ground running with tighter control over labor and material for maximized profits on every job. ConEstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s takeoff, estimating and project management solutions offer seamless integration to create budgets, manage correspondence and track actual costs from pre-construction through construction. Visit our website at www.ConEst.com for videos and more information on our products. You can also call us at 1-800-662-7687 to discuss how ConEst solutions will improve the success of your business!

800-662-7687 www.ConEst.com

Feature < Continued from page 24

Regional Code Issues A good estimator will help grow the business—and that often means bidding on jobs outside the company’s local area. This situation can present a challenge as code changes such as the 2014 revision are not rolled out at one time in all areas of the country. In fact, some areas may be using the 2008 Code (now two revisions old) and will soon change directly to 2014. For example, the Idaho State legislature, which currently enforces the 2008 Code, will meet in January 2014 to consider enforcing the 2014 NEC in July 2014. If they agree, this means a jump of two revisions at once for estimators to take note of. In addition to variations in which revision of the code is enforced, many authorities regularly add their own local changes. These regional variations in requirements mean that an estimator is going to need to do some homework when bidding a job outside his or her local jurisdiction if the bid is going to be accurate and competitive against local contractors. Even after the bid is won, the project should be done according to local code, with any extra expense due to missed requirements paid for by the contractor. As usual, accuracy in the bid pays not only in winning more bids but also higher profits once the job is complete.

Value Engineering The last consideration of code changes examined here is related to value engineering. Experienced estimators know that the designs they are provided to bid on may have inefficiencies. Estimators who apply value engineering are usually more successful. A good estimator will not blindly bid what is drawn but think of the job as a series of specifications to be met in the most cost-effective way possible that still meets the specifications and safety code. A simple example of this is pulling wire—the drawing may show two conduits nearby one another with a minimal number of wires in each. Seeing this, the estimator may recognize that the code allows for one conduit to contain enough wires for both runs, and this is how it will actually be installed in the field. Since the estimate is supposed to predict how the real-word project will be built, the estimator will only carry one pipe instead of the two on the drawing. This is an example of value engineering in simply combining wire pulls. What does this have to do with changes to the electrical code? The answer lies in the fact that value engineering, by its nature, often reaches the limits of what the code allows. Therefore, the estimator should keep track of even seemingly small code changes to maximize the power of value engineering. For instance, the 2011 NEC for ½” electric nonmetallic

Accuracy in the bid pays not only in winning more bids but also higher profits once the job is complete.

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

tubing (ENT) run with #12 THHN wire is a maximum of seven conductors in a single conduit (Table C.2, Chapter 9). However, the 2014 code allows one more conductor in this situation for a total of eight. For the estimator in this example, the 2014 change means the difference of saving an entire conduit run in material and labor—not just one more wire—if the combination adds to eight conductors. These types of savings through value engineering can add up across the job and allow for more competitive bids while still keeping to the true cost of how the work will be done in the field. As we have seen, the limits of the code are often reached when maximizing savings in the estimate. Therefore, the successful estimator will perform value engineering along with full knowledge of the code revisions and local variations as they are rolled out across the country in the coming months and years. All of these issues are important to the success of the electrical contractor. The challenge to the estimator for that company is accurately predicting the real-world labor and materials that the company will use on the job. This means the best estimators will continually learn about what impacts the jobsite—from the local code to value engineering techniques and the historical performance of the company. The 2014 NEC is simply a required part of this knowledge. The results—more bids won, more profits on jobs, and opportunity for growth of the business—are well worth the effort. George Hague has more than 40 years of experience in the electrical industry and is well known for his expertise in the areas of electrical contracting, professional estimating, electrical licensing, and electrical code instruction. Twenty-five years ago he founded ConEst Software Systems and remains dedicated to creating powerful software solutions for the electrical and datacom industries. ConEst, an IEC Platinum Industry Partner, provides a range of software solutions that help contractors run their businesses more efficiently. ConEst’s IntelliBid estimating software includes features that perform automatic value engineering using the program’s built-in NEC tables. For more information, visit www.ConEst.com.

Join the Conversation!

Independent Electrical contractors

Connect with IEC National on social media to join the online community of thousands of electrical contracting professionals. You can find breaking news, legislative updates, compelling videos, safety tips, and much more by simply plugging into the IEC network.

facebook.com/IEC.National

@IEC_National

Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)

IECNational

DoElectrical

feature

Sola Photovolt Systems

and the 2014 NEC By Mark C. OdE

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

ar taic

thorough understanding of solar photovoltaic systems in the 2014 National Electrical Code® (NEC) requires an understanding of the basic principles first, including a clear knowledge of definitions as used in Article 690. An apprentice or a journeyman electrician cannot begin to comprehend and deal with the intricacies of a photovoltaic (PV) installation without knowledge of the intent, purpose, and design requirements involved with these systems. A brief explanation on some of the major sections or subsections may help with the understanding of these systems.

Solar PV Definitions

The scope of Article 690 covers the provisions of this article that apply to solar PV electrical energy systems. These systems originate with solar cells installed in a series configuration in what are called modules. A module is defined as a complete, environmentally protected unit consisting of solar photocells, where sunlight is turned into direct current (dc) energy, optics that help focus and direct the sunlight into the photocell, as well as other components of the PV system, designed to generate and process dc power when exposed to sunlight. The dc output from a module can be connected to other modules connected in series to increase the voltage output and then in parallel to increase the current, which are then used to power dc loads, charge batteries, or be converted into alternating current through a dc to alternating current (ac) inverter or converter. Modules can be combined into panels, and panels can be combined into subarrays or arrays. A panel is defined as a collection of modules mechanically fastened together, wired, and

designed to provide a field-installable unit. A subarray is an electrical subset of a PV array, and an array is a mechanical integrated assembly of modules or panels with a support structure and foundation, tracker, and other components, as required, to form a dc power-producing unit. Field people often mistakenly call a “module” by the term “panel” causing confusion, especially with apprentices. Then both journeymen and apprentices have problems understanding the requirements in the National Electrical Code. Care should be taken to always use the proper terminology to avoid confusion. An inverter is equipment used to change voltage level or wave form, or both, of electrical energy. An inverter can be called a power conditioning unit (PCU) where it is used to match the voltage levels, phase angles, and other utility company power characteristics. An inverter may also be called a power conversion unit where it is used to change dc to ac, with the additional function of power conditioning. Inverters may also function as battery chargers by converting ac power into dc and then acting as a charge controller or regulator so the batteries are not overcharged. Continued on page 30 >

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature < Continued from page 29

There is also a new definition in 690.2 of the 2014 NEC that covers “dc to dc converters,” a device installed in the PV source circuit (the output of the modules) or the PV output circuit (usually from a combiner box to the inverter) that can provide a dc output voltage and current at a higher or lower value than the input dc voltage and current into the converter. There are three different types of inverters: The standalone inverter, the utility interactive inverter, and the multimode inverter. The standalone inverter is a solar PV system that supplies power independently of an electrical production and distribution system, such as the utility power grid. A utility interactive inverter is an inverter that operates in parallel with and may deliver power to an electrical production and distribution system. A multimode inverter has the capabilities of both the interactive inverter and the standalone inverter, since there can be a branch circuit or feeder at the inverter that supplies loads not interconnected with the utility, plus feeders that are interactive with the utility supplied loads. There are some additional definitions that are critical to understanding PV systems and the requirements in the NEC. A PV power source is an array or aggregate of arrays that generate dc power at system voltage and current. PV source circuits are the dc circuits from module to module and from the output of the modules to the common connection point or points, such as the combiner boxes, of the dc system. The PV output circuits are the circuit conductors between the PV source circuits (output of the modules) and the inverter or dc utilization loads, where the dc is not being converted into ac power. PV output circuits are usually the output conductors from the combiner boxes to the inverter. A combiner box is a special box that often contains a busbar, as well as individual overcurrent protective devices, and is used to combine the output of the modules, panels, or arrays so that a single feeder can be used to supply the inverter, rather than installing individual conductors from each series set of modules to the inverter.

Section 690.4 General requirements for PV installations are located in 690.4 and contain provisions dealing with listing of equipment, qualified personnel, and installation of multiple inverters. This general requirement section states that photovoltaic systems are permitted to supply power to a single building, multiple buildings, and other structures, such as pole for security lighting, telephone kiosks, recreational vehicles, boats, and as well as countless other similar applications. This general section also requires inverters, motor generators used for PV applications, PV modules, PV panels, ac PV modules (these devices are a combination of modules and inverters used to supply an ac output to a particular load and are listed from the factory as an integral unit), dc combiner boxes, dc to dc converters, and charge controllers to be listed for PV application and use. Subsection 690.4(C) requires the installation of PV equipment, all associated wiring, and all PV interconnections to be performed by a qualified person, such as an electrician or someone else equally qualified for these installations. A qualified person is defined in Article 100 of the NEC as a person who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training to recognize and avoid the hazards involved. The Informational Note immediately following this definition refers the user to NFPA 70E-2012, the Standard for Safety in the Workplace, for electrical safety training. The final subsection, 690.4(D), states that a PV system is permitted to have multiple inverters installed in or on a single building or other structure. Where these multiple inverters are installed remote from each other, a directory must be installed at each dc PV disconnecting means, at each ac disconnecting means, and at the main service disconnecting means showing the location of all ac and dc disconnecting means for the building. However, there is an exception that states a directory is

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

not required where all inverters and PV disconnecting means are grouped at the main service disconnecting means, since the disconnects would all be located in close proximity to each other.

PV System Voltage One of the key issues with any photovoltaic system is the maximum and minimum voltage for the system. Part II of Article 690 starts with 690.7(A) requiring that a dc PV source circuit (the output of the modules) or the PV output circuit (the output from the combiner box) must have a maximum voltage for that circuit calculated as the sum of the rated open circuit voltage (before any current flows in the circuit) of the series-connected PV system modules corrected for the lowest expected ambient temperature. The open circuit voltage of a module will always be highest at the time when the ambient temperature of the module is at its lowest temperature and before any current flows in the circuit. The lowest temperature of a module is usually at first daylight before the sun has had a chance to warm the modules. An Informational Note has been provided immediately following 690.7(A) that states one source for statistically valid, lowest expected, ambient temperature design data for various locations is the Extreme Mean Minimum Design Dry Bulb Temperature found in the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Handbook—Fundamentals. This temperature data can be used to calculate maximum voltage using the manufacturer’s temperature coefficients relative to the rating temperature of 25° C (this is the temperature at which the module has been tested and certified for its voltage level). The voltage calculation, at the modules, panels, or arrays lowest temperature, should not exceed the voltage rating of the inverter, but the voltage should be high enough during the hottest part of the day to still be able to turn the inverter on in case of a shutdown for any reason. Most inverters have a minimum trigger voltage necessary for the inverter to start up and operate.

Calculating Current Sizing the dc conductors from module to module, from the modules to the combiner box, and from the combiner box to the inverter is covered in 690.8. Section 690.8(A) provides the calculation for the maximum current for each specific part of the system. In 690.8(A)(1), the PV source circuit current (current output of the modules) is the sum of parallel module rated short circuit current multiplied by 125 percent. The PV output circuit current (the output of the combiner box or the individual module conductors installed to the inverter) is the sum of the parallel source circuit maximum currents already calculated in 690.8(A)(1) above. At the ac output of the inverter, the maximum current is the inverter nameplate continuous output current rating (the inverter ac output can never exceed the continuous ampere rating of the inverter). The inverter ac output and the dc to dc converter output current is always considered to be continuous since it will be operating for three hours or more whenever there is enough light and enough trigger voltage for the inverter to be operating. Section 690.8(B) also states that PV system currents are always considered to be continuous currents. All PV circuit conductors are sized to carry not less than the larger of 690.8(B)(1) or (B)(2). In other words, both (B)(1) and (B)(2) must be calculated and then the larger size conductors between the two calculations must be used. In 690.8(B) (1), the conductors must be calculated at 125 percent of the currents calculated in

690.8(A) before the application of any conductor adjustment factors [based on the number of current carrying conductors in a cable or raceway in 310.15(B)(3)] and conductor (ambient temperature) correction factors as covered in 310.15(B) (2). An example of this calculation would be for the conductor ampacity to be figured at 125 percent times 125 percent (which equals 156 percent) times the sum of the parallel source circuit rated short circuit current (for module conductors) or for the PV output circuit conductors (the conductors from the combiner box to the inverter), the sum of the parallel source circuit rated short circuit current. For example, if there were 6 parallel sets of modules (8 modules in each string) and a short circuit current (Isc) of 8.33 amps per set, the following calculation will provide the ampacity necessary for the conductors from the combiner to the inverter. The short circuit current of each string of 8 modules would be 125 percent times 125 percent times the number of parallel sets where there are 6 parallel sets = 8.33 amps per string times 156 percent times 6 parallel sets = 77.97 amps or 78 amps. Based on the 75°C column in Table 310.15(B)(16), the conductor required would be a 4 AWG THWN copper good for 85 amps without any correction factors. For a calculation based on 690.8(B)(2), the maximum current would be calculated in accordance with 690.8(A) without the extra 125 percent, however, now adjustment and correction factors must be applied. For example, short circuit current of one string times 125 percent times the number of parallel sets plus the adjustment and correction factors = ampacity for

conductors, such as 8.33 amps times 125 percent times 6 sets = 62 amps of current in a wet location at 40°C (104° F). Using the ambient temperature correction factors in Table 310.15(B)(2)(a) for the above temperature the correction factor in the 75°C column is 88 percent or 0.88 so 62 amps divided by .88 = 70.45 or rounded off to 70 amps. Based on the 75°C column in Table 310.15(B)(16), the conductor required would be a 4 AWG THWN copper good for 85 amps with correction factors. Careful study of Article 690 will provide both an apprentice and a journeyman electrician with the appropriate amount of information to become proficient with sizing of PV conductors and the installation requirements outlined in Article 690. Mark C. Ode, Lead Engineering Instructor at the Underwriters Laboratories Inc. in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, has worked at UL University and Knowledge Services for five years and was a member of UL’s Regulatory Services Department for 10 years. Ode worked for over 27 years as a licensed electrician and a licensed electrical contractor. He was a principal member for Panel 20 for the 1990 NEC. He was a principal member of Panel 13 for the 2011 NEC and is principal for the 2014 NEC. He was an alternate member of Panel 3 for the 2002, 2005, 2008, and 2011, and he is an alternate member for 2014. He was an alternate on the NEC Technical Correlating Committee (TCC) for the 2005, 2008, and 2011 NEC and is an alternate member of the NEC TCC for the 2014 NEC.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

Serving on a Code Panel Can Boost Your Business By Ken Hengst You may ask, “Why should I invest time and resources in participation in the code making process?” Failure to be current on the latest developments and advances in the NEC may lead to missing out on the opportunity to enhance profitability by applying new wiring methods, taking advantage of new design considerations, or improving upon outdated requirements. Not only will your bottom line improve, your customers (general contractors and owners) will know you are an expert in your field.

he code making process is not only for those involved in IEC at the national level. Many companies can benefit from working closely to create and change the National Electrical Code® (NEC). I challenge you to take your company to a higher technical level through participation in the code making process of the NEC. As a manager, you must make plans that result in the achievement of your company’s goals. As a part of a

comprehensive plan, you must establish the overall objectives, along with the policies and acceptable minimum standards of performance. Foremost of these abilities will be motivating your staff towards the day-in and day-out actions required to achieve the highest levels of competency. A time proven measure of this will be proficiency in code compliance and excellent execution of the standards as set out in the latest edition of the NEC. This proficiency can be best met through participating in the code making process.

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

Secondly, contractual obligations require you to install the work in compliance with the applicable edition of the NEC. You may argue that the design engineer is responsible, however, as the installer, it is ultimately your responsibility to assure the installation is legal and compliant with the applicable standard. Another reason may be that if you don’t participate in the code making, someone else will. One look at the proliferation of new materials and products introduced each code cycle will show that the manufacturers are hard at work getting their new products into the code. While new products can be helpful, all aspects of the industry should be represented in the process, from the manufacturers to the installers to the business owners.

Finding Your Code Expert Now that the value of participating in the code making process is clear, what is the next step? Not every owner of an electrical contracting business will be suited for this work. You may be more valuable to your firm to continue as the leader and manager of the business. Perhaps there is a person in your company for which participation in the process would be a natural next step. Why not identify that resource in your company who already shows a level of competence

in code matters or someone who has expressed a desire to grow and develop? A word of caution though, do not demand of someone something they are not excited or passionate to give. You may have someone in your company who could have a profound and lasting effect upon future generations right under your nose. Do you have someone who teaches at the

local IEC chapter? Is there someone on your team that everyone seems to seek out when they have a question about how to do a task or interpret a requirement of the plans or specification? Once you identify what you are seeking, that person will be easy to find. As Napoleon Hill remarked, “When you know what you want, and how you expect to earn it, life will agree to your terms, not the other way around.”

Follow the Leaders Now you have accepted the challenge and have identified the person in your firm who will be tasked with the execution. What do you do next? Here are some suggestions: 1) Follow the proven path of leadership – find a mentor.

You may choose to be a member of a Code Panel in an area of special expertise such as Hazardous Location in Chapter 5 or participate in a more general area, such as wiring methods in Chapter 3. Wherever your interests specifically lie, there is a path to those positions.

2) Contact the IEC National office.

Consider becoming involved with the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These organizations offer a vast array of information beyond the scope of this article. Any and all information you collect and expose yourself to will ultimately prepare you for service to the industry. Remember, what we become in the pursuit of a goal exceeds the attainment of the goal.

IEC has members on each of the Code Panels. Look at the list on page 17 and see if there is someone you already know. Give them a call and ask for their help. Most will be happy to offer advice and guidance.

The Vice President of Codes and Standards, John Masarick, can be reached at (703) 549-7351 or e-mail jmasarick@ ieci.org. He can provide you with detailed requirements and apprise you of upcoming opportunities. The Codes and Standards Committee has produced an excellent primer on what to expect, what will be expected of you, and a “how to” guide on the service you are contemplating. Make no mistake – it takes time, effort, and expense to do this voluntary work.

3) Find and follow the code forums available online.

These can be great resources for your own education and in many cases, provide interpretations for questions you may have.

Decide today that having a code expert on your team is important. If you are the business owner, that person may not be you. Identify that person and challenge them to do this rewarding work. Establish a value for those who achieve the highest levels of code competency and reward their efforts and continuing professional growth.

In today’s litigious society, don’t let ignorance of the mandatory requirements of the NEC become a liability, undermining years of hard work and considerable risk taken. Commit to the fundamentals of our trade, just like blocking and tackling in football. You will earn the respect of your competition and your customers, along with the practical benefits of participation in the code making process: 1) giving back to the industry, 2) building the highest quality network, and 3) overwhelming satisfaction of being a part of this important component of our business by safeguarding persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity. Ken Hengst is a Senior Project Manager for Walker Engineering, Inc. in Houston, Texas, and a Principal Member of NEC Code Making Panel 8. He serves on the Board of Directors for the IEC Texas Gulf Coast Chapter and has been an IEC Instructor in the Apprenticeship Program and taught exam preparation at the Journeyman and Master level.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

Enclosures –

What’s in the Box? by Mike Weitzel

ost gifts come in packages, and electricity can be a gift. In a way, it’s the same with electricity in an enclosure. In this article, we will discuss the history of electrical enclosures, various types of electrical enclosures, and installation and use considerations. References given will be from NFPA 70, National Electrical

History of Enclosures

In the early days of electrical power, switches were known as cut-outs. The name may derive from its use to “cut out” the power source. A simplistic term but effective and easily understood at the time. The cut-out was basically a simplified switch made of copper bars with an insulated “T” handle for the person to grasp for operation. The cut-out was mounted with bolts or screws to a wood, slate, or mica surface. It was visible and accessible as were its open live parts. There was no such thing as a qualified person because few people really knew the power and danger of electricity. The term cut-out is still used in the NEC today.

In the early days of electricity, switchboards were exactly that: Switches mounted vertically on a board with open copper busbars. Live parts were open and exposed. Large fuses or Edison-base fuseholders were used to limit the amount of current flow. There were no circuit breakers as we know them. Electricity was used primarily for electric light and then for electric motors. The original electrical conduits were gas lines, which were already installed in buildings, and converted to carry wires for electrical circuits. There were lots of opportunities for fires or for people to fall into live parts.

Cut-outs were installed in the open, and later placed in cut-out boxes. These are the switch enclosures of today.

Electrical power brought into homes in those days consisted of a knife-switch cutout with cartridge and Edison-base fuses and open copper busbars and connections that were installed without an enclosure

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

on a covered porch. People learned quickly that getting too close to the electrical service was uncomfortable and scary. It could even be deadly. Therefore, to improve safety, they installed the live parts in a wood cabinet. Hence the term “cabinet” that is still used in the NEC today. The cabinet employed was similar to the cupboard where they placed dishes in the kitchen. This was a definite improvement over exposed live parts, but when other uses were discovered for electricity and taps were added to the existing system, loose connections and overheating sometimes occurred, which started fires. Cabinets made of dry wood were a fire hazard therefore metal cabinets were developed, which were more fire resistant.

Terminology

A look at present day Articles 312, 314, 404, and 408 shows the correlation in the NEC. The cut-outs referred to in Article 312 are today’s switches, also known as disconnects, pull-outs, etc. The term cut-out today is commonly used for a utility-type switch on systems that operate at 5 KV or higher. Code Making Panel 9 accepted a proposal in the 2011 NEC cycle to add the term “enclosed switches” to Section 312.8 for clarification. It is important to note that the switch or cut-out is the switch mechanism and that it is installed in an enclosure. The enclosure may be a cut-out box, cabinet, switchboard, or other type of enclosure. In Article 404, Section 404.3(A) tells us that generally, switches and circuit breakers “shall be of the externally operable type, mounted in an enclosure listed for the intended use” and refers to Section 312.6 for wire bending space. Exception 1 still permits open-knife switches on an openface switchboard or panelboard without enclosures. The switch may be fused or unfused or could be a circuit breaker used as a switch or a molded case switch, which contains no overcurrent protection. Panelboards are the same way. The panelboard is mounted in a cabinet or enclosure. The internal parts of the panelboard are the overcurrent devices – the circuit breakers or fuses – mounted on the busbars and support rails. A review of Article 408, in Section 408. 2, refers to Article 312 for requirements for panelboard enclosures. Enclosures can also be a fenced area, as seen in the definition of enclosures found in Article 100: “The case or housing of an apparatus, or the fence or walls surrounding an installation to prevent personnel from accidentally contacting energized parts or to protect the equipment from physical damage.” Enclosures often contain overcurrent devices. In Section 240.24(C), overcurrent devices are to be located where they will not be exposed to physical damage. But enclosures contain more than overcurrent protective devices. They also contain conductors and other electrical equipment such as relays, timers, motor

controllers, and more. A fence or wall surrounding electrical equipment can be an enclosure, such as an electrical substation or switchyard that encloses live buss, transformers, switches, circuit breakers, reclosers, reactors, etc.

Enclosures in the NEC

NEC Section 110.28 lists the types of enclosures: “Enclosures (other than surrounding fences and walls) of switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, industrial control panels, motor control centers, meter sockets, enclosed switches, transfer switches, power outlets, circuit breakers, adjustable speed drive systems, pullout switches, portable power distribution equipment, termination boxes, general-purpose transformers, fire pump controllers, fire pump motors, and motor controllers.” Even standard device and junction boxes for snap switches, ground fault circuit interrupter or standard duplex receptacles, motion sensors, fire alarm pull stations, or a variety of other devices are enclosures, and the basic rules in Articles 312 and 314 apply to them. Enclosures simply enclose electrical conductors and equipment. Table 110.28 is a useful tool for the electrical engineer, designer, or installer. It provides guidance for selection of enclosures for specified indoor or outdoor locations in standard National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) types. Requirements for enclosures located in hazardous or classified locations are found in Chapter 5 of the NEC. Enclosures are required to be securely attached to their mounting surface in Section 110.13. In addition, equipment may require cooling to operate, such as a transformer enclosure –– which has clearances marked on the front of the transformer nameplate with instructions for spacing from obstructions that would impede air flow by convection past the transformer windings. Other electrical equipment, such as adjustable speed drives, have special requirements in the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use, which are included with the equipment at time of sale.

Generally, in Sections 110.12(A) and 312.5, holes or openings in enclosures, other than those intended for operation, mounting, or required as part of the design of electrical equipment, are to be “closed to afford protection substantially equivalent to the walls of the equipment.” However, for conduit bodies, outlet, device, pull, and junction boxes installed in damp or wet locations, a provision has been placed back into the NEC that permits weep holes of ¼” maximum size if approved by the authority having jurisdiction. Sharp edges of enclosures are a concern to electrical workers. Many of us have been cut when installing or maintaining electrical equipment such as panelboards or fluorescent luminaires. However, improvements to UL 1439 Standard For Sharp Edges of Electrical Equipment should help this. It’s wise for the worker to wear gloves for installation of electrical equipment where possible and appropriate personal protective equipment for working on energized equipment for protection. Mike Weitzel is a member of the National Fire Protection Association, the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI), IEC, and NEC Code Making Panel 8. He holds all five certifications as an electrical inspector through IAEI and was formerly the Codes and Standards Specialist for IAEI. He has over 38 years of electrical experience, including electric utility, industrial plant construction and maintenance, UL 508 Industrial Control Panel Shop, construction electrician, electrical contractor, electrical inspector, and electrical instructor.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

Feature

No Code Is Perfect:

C o r r ec

By John Masarick

istakes happen, to err is human, and it is not unusual for the first edition of a book to have typos. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn holds the record for the most mistakes in a first printing. In general the more errors the first generation of a literary book has, the more valuable it is to a collector.

ti o n s

to the 2 0 1 4 NE C

“Errata” is the plural form of the singular word erratum, and it means errors. An errata is most commonly issued shortly after a first edition is published. The 2014 National Electrical Code® (NEC) is no exception. The development process takes three years. There are more than 500 people involved in the process. More than 3,700 proposals were submitted, and 1,600 comments considered before printing was started. There are many changes in the 2014 edition of the NEC. The threshold voltage was revised from 600 to 1,000 Volts in a number of requirements. New articles were added covering low voltage suspended ceilings, modular data centers, fire resistive cable systems, and energy management systems. There are a number of new GFCI and AFCI requirements. The NEC has added a requirement for a rapid shutdown for photovoltaic systems on buildings. With all the changes, a few errors managed to creep into the NEC.

If you purchased the first edition of the National Electrical Code, make sure to download the errata sheet at www.nfpa. org/codes-and-standards/documentinformation-pages?mode=code&code=70. Below is a review of the corrections found in the errata sheet.

Shading is used in the 2014 NEC to indicate changes from the 2011 edition of the NEC. In Section 200.7, shading should be removed from the first line of the title. Shading should be added to the words “or Gray” in the second line.

Numbers in table 220.3 were transposed in the Section or (Part Column) of Table 220.3. Relating to the

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

term “Electric vehicle charging system branch-circuit and feeder calculations,” change the section reference to 625.41.

The word “non” makes a big difference to those required to comply with this change. The title of Table 220.44 should be revised to read: “Table 220.44 Demand Factors for Non-Dwelling Receptacle Loads.”

This change was understood in the past code book; however, it does provide some clarity to the reader. In Section 400.4, the first sentence should read “Flexible cords and flexible cables shall conform to the description in Table 400.4.”

There were two Part II’s in Article 400 so the second one was renamed Part III. The numbering was correct in the 2011 NEC.

Article 422.51(A), titled Vending Machines, please delete the words “identified for portable use.” The result is: All cord and plug connected vending machines manufactured after January 1, 2005, will require GFCI protection as an integral part of the plug. Older machines must be connected to a GFCI outlet.

Article 490.48 is a new section in the 2014 NEC. Please replace Section 490.48 in the 2014 NEC with the following: 490.48. Substation Design, Documentation, and Required Diagram. (A) Design and Documentation. Substations shall be designed by a qualified licensed professional engineer. Where components or the entirety of the substation are listed by a qualified electrical testing laboratory, documentation of internal design features subject to the listing investigation shall not be required. The design shall address but not be limited to the following topics and the documentation of this design shall be made available to the authority having jurisdiction. (1) Clearances and exits (2) Electrical enclosures (3) Securing and support of electrical equipment (4) Fire protection (5) Safety ground connection provisions (6) Guarding live parts (7) Transformers and voltage regulation equipment (8) Conductor insulation, electrical and mechanical protection, isolation, and terminations (9) Application, arrangement, and disconnection of circuit breakers, switches, and fuses

(B) Diagram. A permanent single-line diagram of the switchgear shall be provided in a readily visible location within the same room or enclosed area with the switchgear and this diagram shall clearly identify interlocks, isolation means, and all possible sources of voltage to the installation under normal or emergency conditions, and the marking on the switchgear shall cross-reference the diagram. Exception: Where the equipment consists solely of a single cubicle or metal enclosed unit substation containing only one set of high-voltage switching devices, diagrams shall not be required.

12.

The section identifier at the top of page 390 should read 500.9 instead of 50.9.

15.

Please change the references in article 506.9(C)(2) on page 434 under the heading “Exception” to read as follows:

16.

Exception: Associated apparatus NOT suitable for installation in a hazardous (classified) location shall be required to be marked only with 506.9(C)(2)(2), (3), and (5), but BOTH the symbol AEx in 506.9(C)(2)(2) and the symbol for the type of protection in 506.9(C)(2)(3) shall be enclosed within the same square brackets; for example, [AEx iaD] or [AEx ia] IIIC.

17.

10.

The title of Article 516 should be revised to add the word “or” to the title to read as follows: Spray Application, Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes Using Flammable or Combustible Materials

11.

Replace Figure 516.3(D) (2) with the following:

In Section 625.17(A)(1), change the cross-reference from 625.17(B)(1) to 625.17(B).

13.

In Section 645.15, delete the second sentence, which reads: “Power systems derived within listed information technology equipment that supply information technology systems through receptacles or cable assemblies supplied as part of this equipment shall not be considered separately derived for the purpose of applying 250.30.”

14.

Article 690.7(F) titled Disconnects and Overcurrent Protection should be deleted.

The reference in the last line of Articles 690.56(A) should be changed from 690.31(E) to 690.31(G).

Delete Figure 700.2 and its title “Emergency Systems.” Also, delete the words “See Figure 700.2” in the first paragraph of article 700.2, Definitions. Delete Figure 701.2 and its title “Legally Required Standby Systems.” Also, delete the words “See Figure 701.2” in the first paragraph of article 701.2, Definitions.

18.

Delete Figure 702.2 and its title “Optional Standby Systems.” Also, delete the words “See Figure 702.2” in the first paragraph of article 702.2, Definitions.

19.

Delete Figure 708.2 and its title “Critical Operations Power Systems.” Also, delete the words, “See Figure 708.2” in the second paragraph of article 708.2 titled, Critical Operations Power Systems.

20.

Change the (C) located at the top of page 70-664 to 705.12.

The above comments were made to the NEC Errata Issue Date of September 16, 2013 to Errata No. 70-14-1. Check www.nfpa.org/ codes-and-standards/document-informationpages?mode=code&code=70 for the most upto-date errata information on the 2014 NEC.

(10) Provisions for oil filled equipment (11) Switchgear (12) Surge arrestors

John Masarick is Vice President of Codes & Standards at the IEC National office in Alexandria, Virginia. He can be reached at (703) 650-0053 or e-mail jmasarick@ieci.org.

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

IEC Foundation

2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Year in Review By Barbara Duncan, IEC Foundation Coordinator At the beginning of a new year, we are all excited about the many opportunities ahead for us and the many blessings we all enjoy. Among our many blessings at the IEC Foundation (IECF) are the individuals, companies, and foundations that gather in partnership with us to help ensure our industry grows and each IEC contractor, chapter, and student is successful. We could not do it without your help. Our best wishes for a very happy and successful 2014!

The Eaton Corporation provided

$50,000

in cash to the Foundation which included contributions to the Endowment Fund and the Scholarship Fund. An additional

$150,591

worth of equipment was provided to IEC Chapter Apprenticeship Training.

Cash grants in the amount of

$44,000

were distributed to IEC Chapter Training Centers.

Other Scholarship Fund contributors include ConEst ($2,000), 3M ($1,000), Wiseway Electric ($1,000), and Encore Wire ($500).

OUR MISSION > The Independent Electrical Contractors Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to fund, promote, and support educational opportunities in the electrical and communications industry. As a responsible partner and stakeholder in this field, the IECF is dedicated to improving the profession and the quality of life in our communities.

The IECF Scholarship Program awarded $58,000 in scholarships to 29 apprentices and college students.

A total of $54,575 in software grants were awarded to IEC Chapter Training Centers.

The IECF 2013 Annual Fund kicked off at the 56th Annual IEC National Convention & Electric Expo in Portland, Oregon.

The Home Depot contributed $50,000 to the IEC Foundation Endowment Fund and pledged $40,000 to the Scholarship Fund.

The annual Tom Jones Memorial IEC Foundation Golf Tournament, held in Aurora, Oregon, hosted 34 golfers. A big thanks to The Home Depot for their sponsorship of this event!

Insights Magazine | January/February 2014 | www.ieci.org

In-kind service of $7,595 was donated through the Foundation to IEC Training Centers.

Graybar provided

$20,000 in cash to the Foundation.

Inside IEC

IEC Representative and Senate Democrats Discuss

Jobs for Veterans

n November, IEC Chesapeake Chapter Executive Director Grant Shmelzer participated in an informal roundtable on veteran employment with U.S. Senate Democrats. The roundtable, which took place at the U.S. Capitol, brought legislators together with businesses and community groups to discuss the successes and challenges involved in ensuring our returning military personnel are gainfully employed. “This forum allowed myself and other members of the business community to share some of the best practices that have allowed our organizations to become successful in the hiring of veterans,” Shmelzer explained. “We were able to share some of the challenges we faced along the way and how we navigated these issues in an effort to employ our Nation’s heroes.” IEC represented one of the many sectors to attend this important meeting. Senate Democrats used this informal gathering to gain information on the various resources associations and employers are using to help recruit, train, and employ U.S. veterans. IEC is fully committed to easing veterans’ transition to the electrical industry in a variety of ways. The overwhelming majority of IEC Apprenticeship Programs are approved training providers under the G.I. Bill; the IEC National Guideline of Standards specifies that veterans shall have direct entry preference in IEC Apprenticeship Programs; many chapters work with local veterans support groups including Hire A Hero, the National Guard Employment Programs, and the Department of Veterans Affairs; and many other initiatives. Specifically, IEC Chesapeake was recognized by the American Legion in July 2013 and received an award for Outstanding Achievement in the Employment of Veterans. Mr. Shmelzer participated at the invitation of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), and Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee Chairman Mark Begich (D-AK).

www.ieci.org | January/February 2014 | Insights Magazine

New & improved