Revisions For The 2014 NEC, With Cover, First Printing

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Patrick S. Ouillette, P.E.
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Revisions for the 2014
National Electrical
Code

With Maine Appendices

A textbook for continuing education

www.novelengineering.com
2014
Patrick S. Ouillette, P.E.
Novel Engineering
1/1/2014

Revisions for the 2014
National Electrical Code

With Maine Appendices

A program for continuing education

By Patrick S. Ouillette, P.E.

Published by:
Novel Engineering
449 Washington Street
Camden, Maine 04843

www.novelengineering.com

Copyright 2013 by Patrick S. Ouillette
Printed in the United States of America

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information
storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the copyright owner.

Acknowledgements
Any reprinted information is done with permission from NFPA 70
-2014, National Electrical

Code
, Copyright 2013, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA. This reprinted
material is not the complete and official position of the NFPA on the referenced subject, which is
represented only by the standard in its entirety.

NFPA 70
, National Electrical Code and NEC
, frequently referred to in this text, are registered

trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA.

Disclaimer
Great care has been taken in the preparation of this text to ensure accuracy of the material herein,
both technical and typographical. However, the author and publisher will not be liable for any
errors that may exist within the text, or for any information in the text that may be misconstrued
or misapplied.

Preface

This text is intended to familiarize the reader with the major changes contained in the
2014 National Electrical Code.
The book is suited for both distance learning (self-study)

and for the traditional classroom setting. It is suitable for anyone exposed to the NEC
at
any level. Those well experienced in the Code will find depth in the coverage. Less
experienced Code users will find the information understandable. The author attempts to
tie the entire NEC together through the study of the changes, Code Refreshers, and
through key concepts and NEC basics weaved throughout the book. The text addresses
Code revisions that apply to all types of occupancies: residential, commercial, and
industrial. Visual learning is a major objective of the books presentation of the Code
changes.

The layout and the method of presentation will enable Code users to easily navigate
through the changes. Through the heading(s) at the beginning of each Code change
addressed in the text, the reader will readily identify the section affected by the change
and the specific subject being discussed. The Significance section serves as an
introduction to the Code change under discussion. An Analysis of the Code change
follows, with explanation where necessary to help the student understand the revision, its
background, and the logic of the change. Graphics, photographs, examples, or
calculations are used to illustrate the change and to enhance learning. The Summary is a
brief re-statement of the highlights of the Code change. An Application Question, with
Answer and key to the correct answer, is included at the end of each Code section studied
for exercise in applying the change and to broaden learning. Many of the sections
analyzed contain a Code Refresher that addresses existing Code requirements related to
the change.

Patrick S. Ouillette. P.E.
210.12(A)

Notes Page
2014 NEC

Table of Contents

Code-Wide Changes ........................................................................................................................... 1
Chapter 1 General

Article 100 Definitions ..................................................................................................................... 4
Article 110 Requirements for Electrical Installations
110.16 Arc-Flash Hazard Warning .......................................................................................................... 6
110.21(B) Field-Applied Markings .......................................................................................................... 7
110.25 Lockable Disconnecting Means .................................................................................................. 8
110.26(C)(3) Spaces About Electrical Equipment Entrance to and Egress from
Working Space Personnel Doors ........................................................................................................ 9
110.26(E)(2) Part II. 600 Volts, Nominal, or Less Spaces About Electrical Equipment
Dedicated Equipment Space Outdoor ............................................................................................. 10
Chapter 2 Wiring and Protection _____________

Article 200 Use and Identification of Grounded Conductors
200.4(B) Neutral Conductors Multiple Circuits ................................................................................. 11
Article 210 Branch Circuits
210.5(C)(2) Identification for Branch Circuits Identification of Ungrounded Conductors
Branch Circuits Supplied from Direct-Current Systems ..................................................................... 12
210.8(A)(9) Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Dwelling Units
Bathtubs or shower stalls ................................................................................................................... 14
Laundry areas ..................................................................................................................................... 15
210.8(B)(8) Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Other Than Dwelling
Units Garages, service bays, and similar areas other than vehicle exhibition halls
and showrooms .................................................................................................................................. 16

210.8(D) Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Kitchen Dishwasher
Branch Circuit ..................................................................................................................................... 17
210.12(A) Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection Dwelling Units .................................................. 18
210.12(B) Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection Branch Circuit Extensions
or Modifications Dwelling Units ....................................................................................................... 24
210.12(C) Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection Dormitory Units ................................................ 27
210.13 Ground-Fault Protection of Equipment .................................................................................. 29
210.17 (and Article 625) Part I. General Provisions Electric Vehicle Branch Circuit ........................ 30
210.19(A)(1) ConductorsMinimum Ampacity and Size Branch Circuits Not More Than 600 Volts
215.2(A)(1) Minimum Rating and Size Feeders Not More Than 600 Volts................................... 31
210.52(E)(1) and (E)(2) Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets Outdoor Outlets
One-Family and Two-Family Dwellings Multifamily Dwellings ........................................................ 32
210.52(E)(3) Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets Outdoor Outlets
Balconies, Decks, and Porches ............................................................................................................ 33
210.52(G)(1) Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets Basements, Garages, and Accessory Buildings
Garages ............................................................................................................................................... 34
210.64 Part III. Required Outlets Electrical Service Areas ................................................................ 35
Article 220 Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Calculations
220.12, Exception Part II. Branch-Circuit Load calculations Lighting Load for Specified
Occupancies Exception .................................................................................................................... 36
Article 240 Overcurrent Protection
240.87 Part VII. Circuit Breakers Arc Energy Reduction ................................................................... 37
Article 250 Grounding and Bonding
250.64(B) Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation Securing and Protection Against
Physical Damage ................................................................................................................................. 38
250.66(A) and (B) Size of Alternating-Current Grounding Electrode Conductor Connections
to a Rod, Pipe, or Plate Electrode(s) Connections to Concrete-Encased Electrodes ....................... 39
250.68(C)(2) Grounding Electrode Conductor and Bonding Jumper Connection to Grounding
Electrodes Grounding Electrode Connections ................................................................................. 40
250.68(C)(3) Grounding Electrode Conductor and Bonding Jumper Connection to Grounding
Electrodes Grounding Electrode Connections A concrete-encased electrode ............................. 41
Table 250.102(C) Bonding Conductors and Jumpers Size Supply-Side Bonding Jumper ............... 43

250.130(C)(4) Part VII. Methods of Equipment Grounding Equipment Grounding Conductor
Connections Nongrounding Receptacle Replacement or Branch Circuit Extensions ...................... 45
250.167 Part VIII. Direct-Current Systems Direct-Current Ground-Fault Detection ........................ 46
250.186 Part X. Grounding of Systems and Circuits of over 1000 Volts Ground-Fault
Circuit Conductor Brought to Service Equipment............................................................................... 47
250.194 Part X. Grounding of Systems and Circuits of over 1000 Volts Grounding and
Bonding of Fences and Other Metal Structures ................................................................................. 48
Chapter 3 Wiring Methods and Materials

Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials
300.22(C)(1) Wiring in Ducts Not Used for Air Handling, Fabricated Ducts for Environmental Air,
and Other Spaces for Environmental Air (Plenums) Other Spaces Used for Environmental
Air (Plenums) Wiring Methods......................................................................................................... 50
Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring
310.15(B)(3)(c) and Table Ampacities for Conductors Rated 0-2000 Volts Tables
Adjustment Factors Raceways and Cables Exposed to Sunlight on Rooftops ................................. 51
Table 310.15(B)(7) Ampacities for Conductors Rated 0-2000 Volts 120/240-Volt,
Single-Phase Dwelling Services and Feeders ...................................................................................... 53
Article 330 Metal-Clad Cable: Type MC
330.30(D)(3) Securing and Supporting Unsupported Cables ............................................................ 56
Article 338 Service-Entrance Cable: Types SE and USE
338.10(B)(4)(b) Uses Permitted Branch Circuits or Feeders Installation Methods for
Branch Circuits and Feeders Exterior Installations .......................................................................... 57
Article 348 Flexible Metal Conduit: Type FMC
348.30(A), Exception No. 4 (and others) Securing and Supporting Securely Fastened .................... 58
Article 376 Metal Wireways
376.22(B) Part II. Installation Number of Conductors and Ampacity Adjustment Factors ........... 59
Article 392 Cable Trays
392.10(A) and Table 392.10(A) Used Permitted Wiring Methods .................................................... 60
392.18(H) and Exception Cable Tray Installation Marking ................................................................ 61
Article 393 Low-Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Distribution Systems ............................................ 62

Chapter 4 Equipment for General Use

Article 404 Switches
404.2(C) Switch Connections Switches Controlling Lighting Loads ................................................... 65
404.8(C) Accessibility and Grouping Multipole Snap Switches ......................................................... 66
Article 406 Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs (Caps)
406.3(E) Receptacle Rating and Type Controlled Receptacle Marking ............................................. 67
406.4(D)(4) General Installation Requirements Replacements Arc-Fault
Circuit-Interrupter Protection ............................................................................................................ 69
406.9(B)(1) Receptacles in Damp or Wet Locations Wet Locations Receptacles of
15 and 20 Amperes in a Wet Location ............................................................................................... 70
406.15 Dimmer-Controlled Receptacles .............................................................................................. 71
Article 408 Switchboards, Switchgear, and Panelboards
408.55(C) Part IV. Construction Specifications Wire-Bending Space Within an Enclosure
Containing a Panelboard Back Wire-Bending Space ....................................................................... 72
Article 422 Appliances
422.23 Tire Inflation and Automotive Vacuum Machines ................................................................. 73
Article 424 Fixed Electric Space-Heating Equipment
424.66(A) and (B) Part VI. Duct Heaters Installation General Limited Access .......................... 74
Article 445 Generators
445.11 Marking .................................................................................................................................... 75
445.20 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Receptacles on 15-kW
or Smaller Portable Generators .......................................................................................................... 77
Article 450 Transformers and Transformer Vaults
450.10(A) Grounding Dry-Type Transformer Enclosures .................................................................. 79
450.11(B) Marking Source Marking .................................................................................................. 80
Article 480 Storage Batteries .................................................................................................................. 81
Chapter 5 Special Occupancies

Article 517 Health Care Facilities
517.18 General Care Areas Patient Bed Location Patient Bed Location Receptacles .................... 82

517.19 Critical Care Areas Patient Bed Location Branch Circuits
Patient Bed Location Receptacles ...................................................................................................... 84
517.19(C) Critical Care Areas Operating Room Receptacles ............................................................ 85
517.30(G) Essential Electrical Systems for Hospitals Coordination .................................................. 87
Article 547 Agricultural Buildings
Article 555 Marinas and Boatyards
547.5(F) Wiring Methods Separate Equipment Grounding Conductor
555.15(B) Grounding Type of Equipment Grounding Conductor ..................................................... 89
Article 551 Recreational Vehicles and Recreational Vehicle Parks
551.71 Part VI. Recreational Vehicle Parks Type Receptacles Provided ........................................ 90
Article 590 Temporary Installations
590.4(I) and (J) General Termination(s) at Devices Support .......................................................... 91
Chapter 6 Special Equipment

Article 600 Electric Signs and Outline Lighting
600.6(A)(1) Disconnects Location At Point of Entry to a Sign Enclosure ....................................... 92
Article 646 Modular Data Centers .......................................................................................................... 93
Article 680 Swimming Pools, Fountains, and Similar Installations
680.22(B)(6) Part II. Permanently Installed Pools Lighting, Receptacles, and Equipment
Luminaires, Lighting Outlets, and Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fans Low-Voltage Luminaires ....... 95
680.42(B) and (C) Part IV. Spas and Hot Tubs Outdoor Installations (B) Bonding
(C) Interior Wiring to Outdoor Installations ....................................................................................... 96
Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
690.12 and 690.56(C) Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems on Buildings ................................................... 97
Article 694 Wind Electric Systems ........................................................................................................... 99
Chapter 7 Special Conditions

Article 700 Emergency Systems
700.8 Surge Protection ....................................................................................................................... 100
700.16 Part IV. Emergency System Circuits for Lighting and Power Emergency Illumination ....... 101
Article 728 Fire-Resistive Cable Systems .............................................................................................. 102
Article 750 Energy Management Systems ............................................................................................ 104
Article 770 Optical Fiber Cables and Raceways
770.110 Part V. Installation Methods Within Buildings Raceways and Cable Routing
Assemblies for Optical Fiber Cables ................................................................................................. 106
Chapter 8 Communications Systems

Article 800 Communications Circuits ............................................................................................ 107
Chapter 9 Tables

INFORMATIVE ANNEX J .................................................................................................................. 108
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Other Important Changes ........................................................................................................................ 109
Maine Appendices
Appendix A Common 2011 National Electrical Code Violations ............................................................
Appendix B Maine Amendments to the 2011 National Electrical Code ................................................
Appendix C Important Statute Changes ...................................................................................................
Appendix D Important Rule Changes .......................................................................................................

Code-Wide Changes
2014 NEC

Four New Articles and New Informative Annex J

Article 393 Low-Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Distribution Systems
New Article 393 provides rules for distribution of low voltage current through suspended
ceiling grid designed for power distribution for the supply of luminaires, sensors, and
other low power devices and equipment located within, on, or suspended below the ceiling
grid. Equipment is supplied by Class 2 circuits using approved cables and connectors.

Article 646 Modular Data Centers
New Article 646 Modular Data Centers contains requirements for prefabricated
structures or enclosures that house IT equipment and related systems such as power, back-
up power, HVAC, and others. The article contains specific new requirements and directs
Code uses to applicable existing requirements in other articles.

Article 728 Fire-Resistive Cable Systems
New Article 728 Fire-Resistive Cable Systems contains detailed requirements for
installation of fire-resistive cable systems. Its purpose is to enhance the survivability of
critical circuits to ensure continued operation for a specified period of time under fire
conditions. The components of fire-resistive cable systems are tested and listed as a
system and shall not be interchangeable between systems. The systems must be installed
in accordance with this Code and all instructions included in the listing. Robust securing
and supporting of fire-resistive cable systems shall be in accordance with the listing and
manufacturers instructions. Fire-resistive cable systems are part of Electrical Circuit
Protective Systems, UL Category FHIT.

Article 750 Energy Management Systems
Article 750 Energy Management Systems (EMS) contains rules that prohibit energy
management systems from overriding load shedding controls that are in place to ensure
minimum capacity requirements for fire pumps, emergency systems, and other required
standby and critical power systems. An EMS shall not be permitted to disconnect power to
circuits supplying emergency lighting, essential electrical systems in health care facilities,
ventilation equipment exhausting hazardous gas, or power to elevators, moving walks and
similar equipment. An EMS may not cause any service, feeder, or branch circuit to
become overloaded. Also, an EMS is prohibited from overriding any control necessary for
ensuring continuity of alternate power sources for critical loads.

Informative Annex J
The 2014 NEC includes Informational Annex J , ADA Standards for Accessible Design, to
assist Code users in considering electrical design constraints for electrical and other
building systems in buildings required to comply with ADA, e.g., requirements for switch
and receptacle heights.

These new articles and Informative Annex J are covered in more detail within this textbook.

Copyright 2013 by Patrick S. Ouillette, P.E. 1

Code-Wide Changes
2014 NEC

Lockable Disconnecting Means
Many sections of the NEC require a disconnecting means to be capable of being locked in the
open position, sometimes as a requirement for permitting an exception to the rule. Further, the
provisions for locking or adding a lock to the disconnecting means shall remain in place with or
without the lock installed. This language has been inserted into new Section 110.25. Instead of re-
writing this requirement in various sections throughout the Code, those sections now state that the
disconnecting means shall be lockable in accordance with 110.25. Section 110.25 is covered in
more detail within this textbook.

Requirements for DC Systems
Requirements for DC systems integrated throughout the NEC is a result of the NEC DC Task
Force that was established to review the Codes existing DC requirements and make
recommendations in the form of proposals, where the NEC was deemed lacking in addressing new
DC technologies. The increasing use of on-site generation and utilization of DC power from such
sources as photovoltaic systems is one example of the need for expanded NEC coverage of DC
systems. Electric vehicle charging, DC microgrids, and wind electric generation systems require
NEC rules for safe installations. Some of the DC-related changes in the 2014 NEC are new Article
393 Low-Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Distribution Systems, revisions to Article 480
Storage Batteries, revisions to Article 690 PV Systems, switchboards and panelboards for DC
systems in Article 408, and new sections to identify ungrounded branch-circuit and feeder
conductors supplied from DC systems. This textbook analyses several Code articles/sections
related to DC systems.

Use of the Term Switchgear Incorporated throughout the NEC
The term switchgear has replaced metal-enclosed power switchgear in Article 100 and throughout
the Code. The definition of switchgear is essentially the same as the former definition of metal-
enclosed power switchgear. All switchgear subject to NEC requirements is metal enclosed.
Switchgear rated 1000 V or less may be identified as low-voltage power circuit breaker
switchgear. Switchgear rated over 1000 V may be identified as metal-enclosed switchgear or
metal-clad switchgear.

Article 408 Switchboards and Panelboards is re-titled Switchboards, Switchgear, and
Panelboards. Article 490 Equipment Over 1000 Volts, Nominal now uses the term switchgear
in place of metal-enclosed switchgear and metal-enclosed power switchgear. Other places in the
Code have replaced metal-enclosed switchgear with switchgear. Several Code sections add
switchgear where switchboards are listed.

Voltage Threshold: Changed from Over 600 Volts to Over 1000 Volts
Some wind generating systems operate above the existing 600-V threshold (690 volts AC is
common) and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems operate in a range of DC voltages up to and
including 1000 V and higher. The High Voltage Task Group was appointed by the Technical
Correlating Committee to review existing Code and submit new proposals to address the need for
installation rules for circuits and systems operating at over 600 volts.

Code-Wide Changes
2014 NEC

As a result of their work, several Code articles now address Over 1000 Volts in place of Over 600
Volts. Some articles retained the 600-V threshold, particularly where there were safety concerns.

This process will continue to evolve. Equipment must be manufactured and tested for the new
voltage level. Changes may be needed to tools, electrical testers, and safety equipment, including
safety clothing. Conductor insulations, equipment and terminal spacings, work space clearances,
and more will be affected.

Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems and Article 694 Wind Electric Systems are
among the articles that contain requirements for systems operating over 1000 volts. UL currently
lists PV cable and other equipment for operation over 600 volts.

Article 250 Grounding and Bonding began to address grounding of systems and circuits of 1 kV
and over in the 1981 edition of the NEC.


Article 100 Definitions
2014 NEC

Coordination (Selective) [revised definition]
Localization of an overcurrent condition to restrict outages to the circuit or equipment affected,
accomplished by the choice selection and installation of overcurrent protective devices and their
ratings or settings for the full range of available overcurrents, from overload to the maximum
available fault current, and for the full range of overcurrent protective device opening times
associated with those overcurrents.

The revision makes it clear that selective coordination is the isolation of downstream overcurrent
conditions over the complete range of available overcurrents and associated opening times.

Premises Wiring (System) [new Informational Note]
Interior and exterior wiring, including power, lighting, control, and signal circuit wiring together
with all their associated hardware, fittings, and wiring devices, both permanently and temporarily
installed. This includes (a) wiring from the service point or power source to the outlets or (b)
wiring from and including the power source to the outlets where there is no service point.
Such wiring does not include wiring internal to appliances, luminaires, motors, controllers,
motor control centers, and similar equipment.

Informational Note: Power sources include, but are not limited to, interconnected or stand-alone batteries,
solar photovoltaic systems, other distributed generation systems, or generators.

The new Informational Note provides some examples of premises wiring systems. Not all premises
wiring is supplied by a utility service, i.e., there may not be a service point. Portable generators
and their associated wiring constitute premises wiring, unless used to serve installations not
coved within the scope of the NEC in 90.2(B).

Readily Accessible [revised definition]
Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections without requiring those
to whom ready access is requisite to actions such as to use tools, to climb over or remove
obstacles, or to resort to portable ladders, and so forth.

Where a disconnecting means is required to be readily accessible, even the use of a simple
screwdriver to access the disconnect renders the disconnect not readily accessible (only
accessible). This can be the case in certain HVAC equipment where a built-in disconnect is
located behind an access panel that requires a screwdriver to remove or open.

Retrofit Kit [new definition]
A general term for a complete subassembly of parts and devices for field conversion of
utilization equipment.

The term retrofit kit is used in Article 410 Luminaires, Lampholders, and Lamps, and in
Article 600 Electric Signs and Outline Lighting. For use within the scope of these articles,
retrofit kits are required to be listed. With the move toward energy-efficient lighting, retrofit kits
used to upgrade lighting sources (many to LED lighting) are increasingly popular.

Article 100 Definitions
2014 NEC

Separately Derived System [revised definition]
An electrical source, other than a service, having no direct connection(s) to circuit conductors of
any other electrical source other than those established by grounding and bonding connections.

Separately derived systems are not services. Only a utility company supplies power via a service.
Grounding the neutral of a separately derived system (e.g., a transformer) in a building to metal
water piping or structural steel in the vicinity of the separately derived system will nearly always
form a connection to another systems grounded conductor. The electrode used (structural steel
or metal water piping) to ground the separately derived system must qualify as a grounding
electrode. The revised definition clarifies that a common grounding electrode conductor used to
ground multiple separately derived systems, as permitted in 250.30(A)(6), does not disqualify the
systems from being separately derived systems.

110.16 Requirements for Electrical Installations
2014 NEC

Arc-Flash Hazard Warning

Significance
Arc-flash hazard warning labels that are factory applied meet the marking requirements of this
section.

Analysis
Electrical equipment such as switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, industrial control panels,
meter socket enclosures, and motor control centers, that are in other than dwelling units, and are
likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized shall be
marked to warn qualified persons of potential arc flash hazards. This Code revision permits
equipment to be either field marked or factory marked. Many manufacturers are marking
equipment with appropriate arc flash warning labels, so there is no need for field marking. The
installer, though, is ultimately responsible for compliance with this section. The marking shall be
located such that it is clearly visible to qualified persons who will examine or service the
equipment. Also new in this Code edition is the requirement that the marking meet the provisions
of 110.21(B), which is itself new to the 2014 NEC. According to Section 110.21(B), labels shall
be permanently affixed to the equipment or wiring method, shall be of sufficient durability to
withstand the environment, and shall adequately warn of the hazard using effective words and/or
colors and/or symbols.
Like the 2011 NEC, the 2014 Code does not specify the content and details of the warning
label, since this information is deemed related to workplace safety rather than installation, and
thus, beyond the scope of the NEC. Informational Note No. 1 makes reference to NFPA 70E-
2012, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, which provides guidance in determining
the level of exposure, planning safe work practices, arc flash labeling, and selecting personal
protective equipment (PPE). Informational Note No. 2 references ANZI Z535.4, Product Safety
Signs and Labels for guidelines for the design of safety sign and labels.

WARNING
Arc Flash and Shock Hazard
Requires arc-rated protection for
6.8 calories/cm
2
Working distance =18 inches
This label meets both the 2014 NEC
and NFPA 70E-2012 requirements.
Nominal system voltage: 480Y/277
Arc flash boundary: 4 ft
Note: Factory marking of the
information required by 70E is
generally not feasible due to the
variety of equipment applications.

Summary: Arc flash warning labels may be field or factory applied. Field-applied marking shall
meet the requirements of new 110.21(B), which contains general requirements for field marking.

Application Question
Does the NEC require the available incident energy to be marked on electrical equipment?

Answer: No, but NFPA 70E does. Section 130.5(C) of 70E-2012 requires equipment to be field
marked to specify either the available incident energy, in calories/cm
2
, or the minimum arc rating
of PPE, also expressed in calories/cm
2
; the nominal system voltage; and the arc flash boundary.

110.21(B) Requirements for Electrical Installations
2014 NEC

Field-Applied Markings

Significance
A new subsection had been added to 110.21 that contains requirements when implementing the
DANGER, WARNING, and CATUTION markings required by the NEC.

Analysis
Various sections of the Code require field marking using one of these signal words: DANGER,
WARNING, or CAUTION. This Code change seeks to provide consistency in the required
marking by establishing the visual format, durability, and suitability criteria for these three types
of markings. The marking/label shall adequately warn of the hazard using effective words and/or
colors and/or symbols. The label shall be permanently affixed to the equipment or wiring method
and shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved. Labels shall not be
hand written, except where they are variable or could be subject to change. Informational Notes
reference ANSI Z535.4-2011, Product Safety Signs and Labels, which provides guidelines for
suitable font sizes, words, colors, symbols, and placement requirements for safety signs and
labels.
The labels below are examples of safety labels that conform to ANSI Z535. Labels should
include a description of the hazard, a way to avoid the hazard, and consequences if ignored (partly
understood by having knowledge of the labels meaning). The DANGER label below will
probably satisfy most AHJ s as compliant with 110.21(B) and 110.34(C). It would be better if it
included the consequence, e.g., Contact will cause electric shock or burn.

DANGER
Safety alert
symbol
Signal word
HIGH VOLTAGE KEEP OUT
Indicates an imminently hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Red background and exclamation point
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Orange background and exclamation point
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. The signal word without the
safety alert symbol is sometimes used when the message
addresses only a hazard to property and not to persons.
Yellow background and exclamation point

Summary
Where DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION labels are required by the NEC, field-applied labels
shall be permanently affixed to the equipment or wiring method, shall be of sufficient durability to
withstand the environment, and shall adequately warn of the hazard using effective words and/or
colors and/or symbols.

Application Question: What safety label requirements are included in Article 110 that
require signal words?

Answer: Sections 110.22(B) and (C), CAUTION (for series combination systems);
110.34(C), DANGER (for over 600 volts); and possibly 110.28(C), conspicuous warning signs
(forbidding unqualified persons to enter rooms or locations containing exposed live parts).

110.25 Requirements for Electrical Installations
2014 NEC

Lockable Disconnecting Means

Significance
Several sections of the new Code require disconnects to be lockable in accordance with 110.25.

Analysis
Many sections of the NEC require disconnecting means to be lockable in the open position.
Further, the provision for locking must remain in place with or without the lock installed. This
facilitates lockout/tagout (LOTO). Instead of repeating the rules for a lockable open
disconnecting means in various sections of the Code, the 2014 NEC places the provisions in
Article 110. The 2014 Code adds an exception for cord-and-plug-connected equipment that might
require the equipment to be locked off/open. There are products on the market designed to be
placed over a cord plug and locked, thereby preventing use of the plug. The plug lock is stored on
the cord while the equipment is energized. The exception recognizes that this provision for
locking cannot remain in place. Some sections of the NEC permit a cord and plug to serve as the
required disconnecting means, but do not require any cord-and-plug disconnecting means to be
lockable open. However, OSHA regulations in 29 CFR 1910-147 do require certain cord-and-
plug-connected equipment to be lockable open, except where the plug is under the exclusive
control of the employee servicing the equipment.
Examples of Code sections that require disconnecting means to be lockable in accordance
with 110.25 are 430.102(B), Exception, for motor disconnecting means; and 422.31(B), for
permanently connected appliances rated over 300 volt-amperes.

Summary
New 110.25 contains rules that must be complied with for
a disconnecting means to qualify as lockable open. An
exception recognizes that where the disconnecting means
is permitted to be a plug for cord-and-plug-connected
equipment, the provision for locking cannot remain in
place.

This lockout kit contains locking devices and accessories for several
sizes of single-pole and multi-pole circuit breakers.
Courtesy of Brady Worldwide, Inc.

There is a simple metal locking device available that fits over a standard size single-pole breaker
handle and uses a set screw to lock the breaker in the ON or OFF position. Does this device
comply with 110.25?

Answer: No. The device may be useful to help ensure that certain circuit breakers remain ON or
OFF, but the locking provision is not suitable, since it can be defeated with a simple
screwdriver.


110.26(C)(3) Requirements for Electrical Installations
2014 NEC

Spaces About Electrical Equipment Entrance to and Egress from Working Space
Personnel Doors

Significance
The threshold at which listed panic hardware is required on egress doors from electrical
equipment working spaces has been reduced from 1200 A to 800 A.

Analysis
Specifications for personnel doors intended for entrance to and egress from electrical equipment
working spaces are only concerned with the safety of persons. The threshold of 1200 A relates to
the number of personnel doors required, but equipment ratings less than 1200 A pose significant
exposure to arc flash. Code-Making Panel 1 has chosen 800 A as the minimum equipment rating
where egress doors within 25 feet of the working space require listed panic hardware to facilitate
egress by persons who may have been injured while examining or working on equipment. The
doors must open in the direction of travel. The 800-A rating is not cumulative. Two separate 400-
A rated pieces of equipment will not trigger the requirement.
Working space
Equipment rated 800 A or more that
contains overcurrent devices, switching
devices, or control devices
Equip. rated 800 A or more
that contains overcurrent,
switching, or control devices
L
e
s
s

t
h
a
n

2
5
These doors must open in the direction of egress and

must be equipped with listed panic hardware.
Electrical Room
Working space 3
3
4 4
3 3
Listed panic hardware typical for
rooms containing electrical
equipment rated 800 A or more
This door is intended for entrance
to and egress from the electrical
equipment working space.
Note: Only 1 personnel
door is required.

Summary
All doors intended for entrance to and egress from any room where electrical equipment rated 800
A or more is installed, and are less than 25 from the nearest edge of the working space, shall open
in the direction of egress and be equipped with listed panic hardware.

T F Rooms that are not dedicated electrical equipment rooms are exempt from the rules
specifying the number of egress doors required and the specifications for the doors.

Answer: False. Any room where electrical equipment is installed must comply with working
space and applicable egress door requirements. Any area where electrical equipment is installed
must comply with applicable working space requirements.

110.26(E)(2) Requirements for Electrical Installations

2014 NEC

Part II. 600 Volts, Nominal, or Less Spaces About Electrical Equipment Dedicated
Equipment Space Outdoor

Significance
Dedicated equipment space is now required for certain outdoor electrical equipment.

Analysis
Electrical distribution equipment is sometimes located outdoors, along with HVAC equipment,
PV system inverters and disconnects, generator equipment and disconnecting means, etc. This
may be especially true for slab-on-grade construction. It makes sense for large electric loads and
electrical sources to be in close proximity, but proper design is necessary to ensure safe working
space about all equipment. Working space in 110.26(A) is for the protection of the worker, while
dedicated equipment space is to ensure future wiring access to the equipment and protection of
electrical equipment from intrusion by non-electrical equipment. In the existing Code, rules for
working space about electrical equipment include outdoor locations, but dedicated equipment
space for outdoor locations is new in 2014. The space equal to the width and depth of the
equipment and extending from grade to a height of 6 ft above the equipment shall be dedicated to
the electrical installation. This permits unobstructed access for conduits and cables to be installed
in and out of electrical panelboards and other equipment. No piping or other equipment foreign to
the electrical installation is permitted in this space. Gas piping, water piping, refrigeration lines,
compressed air lines, and phone and internet equipment are examples of foreign equipment that
must not be installed above or below a panel or certain other electrical equipment in the dedicated
space.

Summary
Dedicated equipment space shall be
provided for switchboards, switchgear,
panelboards, and motor control centers
installed in outdoor locations. The space
shall be equal to the width and depth of the
equipment and extend from grade to a height of 6 ft above the equipment.

What are the working space and dedicated equipment space requirements for outdoor electrical
equipment?

Answer
Per 110.26(E)(2)(a), the working clearance space includes the zone described in 110.26(A): 3-4 ft
deep, depending on the voltage and other conditions; the greater of 30 in. or the width of the
equipment; and the greater of 6 ft or the height of the equipment. The dedicated equipment
space for outdoor switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, and motor control centers (equipment
that is likely to require future wiring access) is the space equal to the width and depth of the
equipment and extending from grade to a height of 6 ft above the equipment.
Service disconnect and
branch circuit breakers
(panelboard)

200.4(B) Use and Identification of Grounded Conductors

2014 NEC

Neutral Conductors Multiple Circuits

Significance
Neutral conductors are generally not protected by overcurrent devices. It is necessary to be able to
correctly identify circuit conductor pairs (grounded and ungrounded conductors of the same
circuit) when splicing and terminating conductors to prevent overloading and miswiring.

Analysis
Where conduit raceways are used to enclose home-run conductors run into a panel, or where
wireways are used near panels to transition from a cable wiring method to conduit to run into a
panel, it is not uncommon to find more than one neutral/grounded conductor in a conduit with
several ungrounded conductors. This Code revision requires that grounded circuit conductors be
identified or grouped in enclosures to correspond with the ungrounded conductor(s) of the same
circuit. This can be accomplished by using wire markers, cable ties, or similar means in at least
one location within the enclosure (all enclosures). There are two exceptions. Indentifying or
grouping is not required where: (1) the branch-circuit or feeder conductors enter from a cable or
raceway unique to that circuit so that the conductor association is obvious, and (2) branch-circuit
conductors pass through a box or conduit body without a loop as described in 314.16(B)(1) or
without a splice or termination. Some contractors have established the practice of using number
labels to identify neutral conductors. Certainly this is an acceptable means of identification.

This change will facilitate maintenance and troubleshooting and will help to prevent overloading
of neutral conductors. Note that there is a separate existing requirement for grouping or
identifying all conductors of a multiwire circuit in 210.4(D), which was new in the 2008 NEC.

Multiple neutral/grounded conductors in
the same raceway

Summary
Where there is more than one grounded
conductor within an enclosure, the
grounded conductors shall be matched with
their corresponding ungrounded
conductors by marking, grouping, or other
effective means, unless the conductor
association is obvious or where conductors
pass directly through the enclosure.

T F This new requirement for grounded conductor identification/association applies only
where there is more than one voltage system within a building.

Answer
False. Neutral identification where the premises wiring is supplied by more than one voltage
system is a separate requirement in 200.6(D) for branch circuits and in 215.12(A) for feeders.

210.5(C)(2) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Identification for Branch Circuits Identification of Ungrounded Conductors Branch
Circuits Supplied from Direct-Current Systems

Significance
Where AC and DC circuits exist together in premises wiring, identification of circuit conductors
of different systems is necessary for safety and is generally accepted wiring practice.

Analysis
Thomas Alva Edisons argument for DC over Nikola Teslas AC remains inferior, but a
resurgence in popularity of DC systems is occurring with the use of photovoltaic (PV) systems,
microgrids, low-voltage suspended ceiling power distribution systems (new Article 393), Article
411 lighting, etc. DC circuits can be used in premises wiring directly from sources without
conversion power loss. The 2014 NEC has included rules to identify DC branch circuits.

The new identification rules apply to ungrounded DC circuit conductors operating at more than 50
volts. Sizes 4 AWG and larger conductors shall be identified by polarity at all termination,
connection, and splice points by marking tape, tagging, or other approved means. Ungrounded
conductors sizes 6 AWG and smaller shall also be identified by polarity at all termination,
connection, and splice points. The identification means shall be as follows:

Positive Polarity, Sizes 6 AWG or Smaller
A continuous red outer finish
A continuous red stripe along the length of the conductor on other than green, white, gray,
or black insulation
Imprinted plus signs (+) or the word POSITIVE or POS marked on an insulation color
other than green, white, gray, or black at intervals not exceeding 24 inches in accordance
with 310.120(B)

Red insulation
Blue insulation
POSITIVE POS +
Red stripe on blue insulation

Negative Polarity, Sizes 6 AWG or Smaller
A continuous black outer finish
A continuous black stripe along the length of the conductor on an insulation color other
than green, white, gray, or red
Imprinted minus signs () or the word Negative or NEG marked on other than green,
white, gray, or black insulation at intervals not exceeding 24 inches in accordance with
310.120(B)

Black insulation
Blue insulation
Black stripe on blue insulation
NEGATIVE NEG


210.5(C)(2) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

The identification means employed for conductors originating in each branch-circuit panelboard
or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment shall be documented in a manner that is readily
available or shall be permanently posted at each branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-
circuit distribution equipment. This posting requirement is the same as existing 210.5(C)(1)(b) for
AC branch circuits.

Previously, the rule in 210.5(C)(1) could have been used by the AHJ to apply to DC circuits,
where more than one voltage system existed. New subsection (2) provides specific rules for DC
circuits as one of the voltage systems, or where only DC circuits exist in premises wiring. In many
instances, the DC circuits will be installed in existing buildings with an AC utility supply system.

This new requirement for identifying ungrounded DC conductors is also applied to feeders
supplied from direct-current systems in 215.12(C)(2). It has not been applied in Article 690, since
Article 690 already has established rules for identifying and marking of PV cables and raceways.

Summary
Ungrounded branch-circuit and feeder conductors supplied from DC panelboards or similar
distribution equipment shall be identified by polarity at all termination, connection, and splice
points. Sizes 4 AWG and larger conductors shall be identified by marking tape, tagging, or other
approved means. Ungrounded positive polarity conductors of sizes 6 AWG and smaller shall be
identified by a continuous red outer finish; a continuous red stripe on insulation other than green,
white, gray, or black; or imprinted plus (+) signs or the word POSITIVE. Ungrounded negative
polarity conductors of sizes 6 AWG and smaller shall be identified by a continuous black outer
finish; a continuous black stripe on insulation other than green, white, gray, or red; or imprinted
minus () signs or the word NEGATIVE. The identification means shall be documented in a
manner that is readily available or shall be posted at each panelboard or distribution equipment.

What means of identification is required for the grounded conductor of a DC circuit?

Answer
For both DC branch circuits and feeders, this new identification requirement applies only to the
ungrounded conductors. The requirement contains specific marking for both positive and negative
polarities, but in both cases ungrounded conductors. The grounded conductor of a DC circuit is
subject to the general rules for identifying grounded conductors in 200.6. Also relevant, new
Section 250.167 (covered separately in this text) requires ground-fault detection systems for
ungrounded DC systems and permits ground-fault detection for grounded DC systems. Section
250.167(C) requires marking to indicate the grounding type employed, i.e., ungrounded, negative
or positive polarity grounded, resistance grounded, or mid-point grounded.

Code Refresher Question
Is there a neutral conductor in a 2-wire DC circuit (positive and negative polarity) that is not
earthed at any point?

Answer
No, regardless of whether the circuit has either polarity connected to earth. A conductor connected
to earth is a grounded conductor. A 3-wire, DC system contains a neutral point (at its mid-point).

210.8(A)(9) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Dwelling Units Bathtubs
or shower stalls

Significance
The new Code mandates expanded use of ground-fault circuit-interrupters (GFCIs) in dwelling
units.

Analysis
All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets installed within 6 ft of the outside
edge of a bathtub or shower stall shall be GFCI protected. This change recognizes that not all
bathtubs and showers are installed in rooms that qualify as bathrooms per the NEC definition.
Where bathtubs or showers are installed in rooms or areas that require AFCI protection, both
AFCI and GFCI protection are required for a receptacle within 6 ft of the tub or shower.

These areas may have tile or other conductive floors that, when wet, increase the hazard of using
receptacles located in the area that are not GFCI protected. Note that this change resembles
existing 680.71, which requires GFCI protection for receptacles located within 6 ft horizontally of
the inside walls of a hydromassage bathtub.

Summary
In dwelling units, all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and
20-ampere receptacle outlets installed within 6 ft of
the outside edge of a bathtub or shower stall shall be
GFCI protected. Not all bathtubs and shower stalls
are located in bathrooms, where GFCI protection is
already required.

Does this Code change apply to guest rooms and
guest suites?

Courtesy of Interiorholic.com

Answer
The new GFCI requirement does not apply to guest rooms and guest suites unless they qualify as
dwelling units.

Code Refresher
According to the NEC, a bathroom is an area that includes a basin and one or more of the
following: a toilet, a urinal, a tub, a shower, a bidet, or similar plumbing fixtures.
According to the NEC, a dwelling unit is a single unit, providing complete and
independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for
living, sleeping, cooking, and sanitation.

210.8(A)(10) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Dwelling Units Laundry
areas

Significance
Dwelling unit laundry rooms or areas have been added to the list where ground-fault circuit-
interrupters (GFCIs) are required.

Analysis
All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets installed in dwelling unit laundry
rooms or areas shall be GFCI protected. These circuits will also require AFCI protection (see the
change in 210.12(A)). The requirement includes all such receptacles in laundry areas, not just the
receptacle that supplies a clothes washer. According to existing Section 210.11(C)(2), at least one
20-ampere branch circuit shall be provided to supply the laundry receptacle outlet(s) required by
210.52(F). This circuit shall have no other outlets. Section 210.52(F) requires that, in dwelling
units, at least one receptacle outlet be installed in areas designated for the installation of laundry
equipment, unless an exception applies. Laundry equipment includes clothes washers, gas clothes
dryers (the 120-volt pilot, etc.), clothes irons/flatirons, etc. The principal reason for the change is
that laundry areas involve electrical appliances and water, with a resulting increased risk of
electric shock.

Summary
All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere
receptacle outlets installed in dwelling unit laundry
rooms or areas shall be GFCI protected.

Where the laundry equipment and provisions are
located in an area rather than a room, how is the
border determined between laundry receptacles and
receptacles that are not considered in the laundry
area?

Answer
This will be up to the AHJ . It seems reasonable that
receptacles intended for and located to serve laundry
related equipment would require GFCI protection.

Code Refresher
Appliance receptacle outlets installed in dwellings for specific appliances, such as laundry
equipment, shall be installed within 6 ft of the intended location of the appliance.
[210.50(C)]
A load of not less than 1500 volt-amperes shall be included for each 20-A laundry branch
circuit installed in a dwelling. [220.52(B)]
The load for household electric clothes dryers installed in dwellings shall be either 5000
watts (VA) or the nameplate rating, whichever is larger. [220.54]

210.8(B)(8) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Other Than Dwelling
Units Garages, service bays, and similar areas other than vehicle exhibition
halls and showrooms

Significance
This Code change expands the requirement for GFCI-protected receptacles to most types of non-
dwelling garages whether or not electrical hand tools or other electrical equipment are to be used.

Analysis
The garages covered by this rule are nondwelling garages not within the scope of Article 511,
Commercial Garages, for which GFCI protection for certain receptacles is already a requirement.
Article 511 covers areas used for service and repair operations in connection with self-propelled
vehicles in which volatile flammable liquids or flammable gases are used for fuel or power. A
flammable liquid is any liquid that has a closed-cup flashpoint below 100F (37.8C). Garages for
the service and repair of diesel-fueled vehicles are not within the scope of Article 511, since diesel
fuel has a flash point above 100F.

Mag
ellan
s
Yac
ht
Stor
age
GFCI protection not required
The Volt - Showroom
Owls Head Transportation Museum
GFCI protection required
DOT Maintenance Garage
J ims RV Sales and Service
J oes Electric Moped Repair
Magellans Yacht Storage
School Bus Garage
J errys Auto Detail

This Code change applies to nondwelling unit garages (including diesel garages), service bays,
and similar areas whether or not electrical diagnostic equipment, electrical hand tools, or portable
lighting equipment are to be used. The diagram above shows examples of garages where the rule
applies. The Code specifically exempts vehicle showrooms and exhibition halls from the GFCI
requirement. See 555.19(B)(1) for GFCI requirements for Magellans Yacht Storage.

Summary
All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in nondwelling garages,
service bays, and similar areas shall have GFCI protection for personnel. Vehicle showrooms and
exhibition halls are exempt from the GFCI requirement.

Does the NEC define garage?

Answer
Yes, in Article 100: A building or portion of a building in which one or more self-propelled
vehicles can be kept for use, sale, storage, rental, repair, exhibition, or demonstration purposes.

210.8(D) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Kitchen Dishwasher
Branch Circuit

Significance
At some point it seems likely that whole-house GFCI and AFCI will be the norm. The change in
210.8(D) is one of the instances where the 2014 Code requires both GFCI and AFCI protection.
AFCI protection is required for the entire circuit; GFCI protection is required for the appliance.

Analysis
GFCI protection shall be provided for outlets that supply dishwashers installed in dwelling unit
locations. GFCI devices have proven effective in reducing shock hazards and are particularly
important where an electric appliance or equipment is used within reach of grounded surfaces or
objects, such as metal sinks or other grounded metal appliances in kitchens. This Code change is
not placed within subsection (A) of 210.8, since it address outlets rather than receptacles. The new
requirement applies to both cord-and-plug connected and hard-wired dishwashers. A new AFCI
requirement for kitchen circuits (including the DW circuit) is covered in Section 210.12(A).

An AFCI can be used in conjunction with GFCI protection to provide both arcing fault protection
and 5 mA ground-fault protection for persons. One way to provide both types of protection is to
use an AFCI circuit breaker and a GFCI receptacle. AFCIs that incorporate 5 mA GFCI protection
into the same package should become available in the near future. Both AFCI and GFCI devices
must be installed in readily accessible locations.

Visit www.AFCISafety.org for a wealth of information on arc-fault circuit interrupters and use of
AFCI and GFCI on the same circuit.

Summary
Dishwashers in dwelling units shall be
GFCI protected.

Where would you locate a GFCI receptacle
that serves the dishwasher in a dwelling?

Answer
Since the GFCI receptacle must be readily accessible, a standard receptacle could be located
behind the dishwasher (a common practice) connected downstream from a dead-front/blank face
GFCI receptacle located on the wall above the kitchen countertop.

Code Refresher
For cord-and-plug-connected appliances, an accessible plug and receptacle is permitted to
serve as the required disconnecting means. [422.33(A)]
GFCI protection is required for outlets
that supply dishwashers in dwelling units.

210.12(A) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection Dwelling Units

Significance
Whole-house protection from the effects of electric arc faults has been the goal of many entities,
including the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC). With expanded arc-fault circuit-
interrupter (AFCI) requirements in the 2014 NEC, were almost there.

Analysis
The requirement for AFCI protection for 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch
circuits supplying outlets or devices in dwelling units has been expanded to include all such
circuits in kitchens and laundry areas. Many dishwasher fires have been reported, so the
dishwasher circuit is a reasonable addition to the AFCI requirement. Kitchen appliance circuits,
circuits for food waste disposers, lighting circuits, etc. are included in the expanded protection.
The AFCI protection for the applicable laundry circuit(s) includes circuits that supply lighting and
receptacle outlets in laundry rooms or laundry areas. The only 120-volt, 15- and 20-ampere
branch circuits that are exempt from AFCI protection are those that supply outlets in bathrooms,
garages, outdoors, and basements, except for basement rooms included in the list of rooms or
areas in 210.12(A) requiring AFCI protection (e.g., laundry outlets in a basement require AFCI
protection). Foyers are rooms or areas similar to hallways and should be wired to comply with the
AFCI requirement.

The 2014 NEC requires all AFCI devices to be installed in a readily accessible location. This will
facilitate resetting and testing. Testing should be performed monthly. An AFCI receptacle
installed beneath a kitchen sink cabinet to supply a food waste disposer does not meet the
definition of readily accessible, Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or
inspections without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove
obstacles. AFCI circuit breakers are readily accessible by compliance with existing 240.24(A),
which requires overcurrent devices to be readily accessible. This provision for ready access
applies to all subsections of 210.12, including new subsection (C), Dormitory Units.

The 2014 NEC presents six options/methods for accomplishing AFCI protection. The methods
can be viewed as a systems approach to compliance. The combinations of prescribed devices and
wiring methods are deemed to provide AFCI protection equal to that of combination type AFCIs,
detecting and mitigating both series and parallel arc faults.

Outlet branch circuit (OBC) type AFCIs are becoming available. These receptacles along with
combination type and branch/feeder type AFCI circuit breakers are the AFCI components used in
the systems approach to AFCI protection of branch circuits. These three devices are pictured on
the following page, emphasizing the marking of the AFCI type.

Each of the six options for AFCI protection is described on subsequent pages. Following the
description, the system is shown in pictorial form to assist in understanding the details of the
requirements.


2014 NEC

Siemens Q115AFC 15-amp, Siemens Q115AF 15-amp, 1 pole,
1 pole, 120-volt combination 120-volt branch/feeder AFCI
type AFCI

Leviton AFTR1 SmartlockPro
, 15-amp, 125-volt
outlet branch circuit AFCI receptacle


2014 NEC

These are the options for providing AFCI protection:

(1) A listed combination type AFCI installed to provide protection for the entire branch circuit.
There are no additional requirements when this method is used. The system is pictured below.

Standard
receptacle outlets
NM cable or other wiring
method permitted by the
NEC
Combination type AFCI
breaker in panel

(2) A listed branch/feeder type AFCI installed at the origin of the branch circuit in combination
with a listed outlet branch circuit (OBC) type AFCI installed at the first outlet box on the circuit.
The first outlet box in the circuit shall be marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit.
The system is pictured below.

Outlet branch-
circuit type AFCI
NEC
Branch/feeder type
AFCI breaker in panel
Standard
receptacle outlet
Marked to indicate it is the
first outlet on the circuit

(3) A listed supplemental arc protection circuit breaker installed at the origin of the branch circuit
in combination with a listed outlet branch circuit (OBC) type AFCI installed at the first outlet box
on the circuit, provided the following conditions are met: (a) the branch circuit wiring is
continuous from the overcurrent device to the OBC type AFCI, (b) the maximum length of the
branch circuit wiring from the overcurrent device to the AFCI device does not exceed 50 ft for a
14 AWG conductor or 70 ft for a 12 AWG conductor, and (c) the first outlet box in the circuit is
marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit. The supplemental arc protection circuit
breaker concept is being developed by the circuit breaker industry specifically for this application,
based on selected requirements from UL 1699, Standard for Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupters.
The system is pictured below.

2014 NEC

Outlet branch-
circuit type AFCI
NEC
Standard
receptacle outlet
Continuous wiring,
70 ft max. for 12 AWG,
50 ft max. for 14 AWG
Supplemental arc
protection circuit breaker

(4) A listed branch circuit overcurrent protective device (e.g., a standard circuit breaker) installed
at the origin of the branch circuit in combination with a listed outlet branch circuit (OBC) type
AFCI installed at the first outlet box on the circuit, provided the following conditions are met: (a)
the branch circuit wiring is continuous from the overcurrent device to the OBC type AFCI, (b) the
maximum length of the branch circuit wiring from the overcurrent device to the AFCI device does
not exceed 50 ft for a 14 AWG conductor or 70 ft for a 12 AWG conductor, (c) the first outlet box
in the circuit is marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit, and (d) the combination
of the branch circuit overcurrent device and the AFCI receptacle is identified as meeting the
requirements for a System Combination type AFCI and is listed as such. This option introduces
the concept of certifying a branch circuit overcurrent device and OBC type AFCI in specific
system combinations that have been tested and certified to comply with UL 1699 using a new
outline of investigation. After this outline is developed, it will be published as UL Subject
1699C.The system is pictured below.

Outlet branch-
circuit type AFCI
NEC
Standard
receptacle outlet
Continuous wiring,
70 ft max. for 12 AWG,
50 ft max. for 14 AWG
Standard circuit breaker
The combination of the circuit
breaker and the AFCI receptacle
must be identified as meeting the
requirements for a System
Combination type AFCI.


2014 NEC

(5) Where RMC, IMC, EMT, Type MC cable, or steel armored Type AC cables meeting the
requirements of 250.118 for equipment grounding conductors, metal wireways, metal auxiliary
gutters, and metal outlet and junction boxes are installed for the portion of the branch circuit
between the overcurrent protective device and the first outlet, it shall be permitted to install a
listed OBC type AFCI device at the first outlet to provide protection for the remaining portion of
the branch circuit. Metal wireways or large junction boxes installed above panels are a convenient
way to transition from horizontally run branch circuits to vertical raceways between the panels
and the wireway or junction box located above the panel. As such, they become part of the
raceway system for the branch circuits. The system is pictured below.

MC cable from panelboard to
AFCI receptacle or any of
these methods
RMC, IMC, EMT, MC cable,
steel armored AC cable, metal
wireways, and metal auxiliary
gutters are permitted.
Outlet branch-
circuit type AFCI
in metal box
NEC
Standard
receptacle outlet

(6) Where a listed metal or nonmetallic conduit or tubing or Type MC cable is encased in not less
than 2 in. of concrete for the portion of the branch circuit between the branch circuit overcurrent
device and the first outlet, it shall be permitted to install a listed OBC type AFCI device at the first
outlet to provide protection for the remaining portion of the branch circuit. The system is pictured
below.

PVC encased in a minimum 2 in. of concrete. Any listed
metal or nonmetallic conduit or tubing or Type MC cable
suitable for encasement in concrete may be used.
Outlet branch-
circuit type AFCI
in metal box
RMC, IMC, EMT, or continuous run of MC cable
suitable for concrete encasement can be used for
the portion of the circuit not encased in concrete.
Standard
receptacle outlet
Or other wiring method
permitted by the NEC
OR


2014 NEC

Exception Where an individual branch circuit for a fire alarm system installed in accordance
with 760.41(B) or 760.121(B) is installed in RMC, IMC, EMT, or steel-sheathed Type AC or MC
cable meeting the equipment grounding requirements in 250.118, with metal outlet and junction
boxes, AFCI protection shall be permitted to be omitted. Sections 760.41(B) for nonpower-
limited fire alarm circuits and 760.121(B) for power-limited fire alarm circuits state that the fire
alarm branch circuit shall not be supplied through AFCI or GFCI devices. Single- and multiple-
station smoke alarms in dwellings powered by circuits that are protected by GFCI or AFCI
devices shall have a secondary power source [see 29.6.3(5) of NFPA 72-2013, National Fire
Alarm and Signaling Code].

Fire Alarm Control Panel
Supply overcurrent device
located in Panel LP
Panel LP
The circuit disconnecting means
shall have red identification .
FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT
MC cable or any of
these methods
from panelboard to fire alarm control panel
RMC, IMC, EMT, or steel-
sheathed Type MC or AC cable
FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT
Exempt from AFCI protection

Summary
The requirement for AFCI protection for 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch
circuits in dwelling units has been expanded to include all such circuits in kitchens and laundry
areas. The only branch circuits that are exempt from AFCI protection are those that supply outlets
or devices in bathrooms, garages, outdoors, and basements, except for basement rooms included
in the list of rooms or areas in 210.12(A) requiring AFCI protection (e.g., laundry outlets in a
basement require AFCI protection). The 2014 NEC requires all AFCI devices to be installed in a
readily accessible location to facilitate resetting and testing. The 2014 Codepresents six
options/methods for accomplishing AFCI protection. The methods can be viewed as a systems
approach to compliance. The most common methods for providing AFCI protection for branch
circuits will likely be by use of combination type AFCI circuit breakers, or by combining standard
circuit breakers with outlet branch circuit type AFCIs (AFCI receptacles) as a systems approach to
branch circuit AFCI protection.

Application Question: When using a standard circuit breaker in combination with an OBC type
AFCI to provide AFCI protection for a branch circuit installed in wood framing members, what
wiring method(s) are permitted to be used between the overcurrent device and the first outlet?

Answer: RMC, IMC, EMT, Type MC cable, or steel armored Type AC cable meeting the
requirements of 250.118, metal wireways, metal auxiliary gutters, and metal outlet and junction
boxes can be installed for the portion of the branch circuit between the overcurrent protective
device and the first outlet to provide AFCI protection for the remainder of the branch circuit.

210.12(B) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection Branch Circuit Extensions or
Modifications Dwelling Units

Significance
A new exception has been added to this subsection that will help to clarify when AFCI
requirements are applicable to circuit extensions or modifications to existing wiring.

Analysis
The new exception states that the AFCI requirement is not applicable for dwelling unit branch
circuit extensions, where the circuit extension is not more than 6 in length and no additional
outlets or devices are added to the circuit. When an existing panel is replaced or upgraded, the
branch circuit wiring is not always long enough to connect to the panel overcurrent devices. The
exception will allow existing branch circuits to be spliced and extended up to 6 in cable length
without requiring AFCI protection for the branch circuits. This will accommodate panels being
moved out of clothes closets and bathrooms, service panels (during service upgrades) being
moved closer to where the service-entrance conductors penetrate the outside wall of a building,
panels being moved to readily accessible locations, and other situations.

The existing AFCI requirement remains the same. In any of the areas specified in 210.12(A),
where branch-circuit wiring is extended, modified, or replaced, the branch circuit shall be
protected by either

A listed combination-type AFCI located at the origin of the branch circuit, or
A listed outlet branch-circuit type AFCI device located at the first receptacle outlet of the
existing branch circuit.

This subsection applies also to kitchens and laundry rooms or areas, since these rooms have been
added to the list in 210.12(A). The AFCI devices must meet the new requirement at the beginning
of 210.12 for ready access.

Summary
AFCI requirements are not applicable to dwelling unit branch circuit extensions, where the circuit
extension is not more than 6 in length and no additional outlets or devices are added to the
existing branch circuit.

Statistics show that the majority of electrical fires occur in older homes. How does this exception
promote enhanced safety of older circuits that would be better protected by AFCI devices?


2014 NEC

Answer
It doesnt. However, it does encourage other safety enhancements like moving panels to Code-
compliant locations, upgrading from fuses to circuit breakers, or increasing the size of an
overloaded service (all of which may require circuit extensions), without necessitating the extra
cost of AFCI devices. For some, particularly in hard economic times, this extra cost could be a
deterrent from making a service or panel upgrade, or from moving a panel. Note that the
exception does not apply to circuit modifications or replacementsonly short extensions of
existing branch circuits, where no outlets or devices are added.

Technical Update
You may be wondering how an AFCI receptacle installed at the first receptacle outlet on an
existing circuit compares with a combination-type AFCI circuit breaker in terms of protection of
the entire branch circuit. Outlet branch-circuit (OBC) type AFCIs provide both upstream and
downstream protection from series arc faults, but provide only downstream protection from
parallel arc faults. So, how is the home run (that portion of a circuit from the overcurrent device
to the first outlet) protected against parallel arcing faults?

Studies have shown that the home run portion of a circuit is, on average, approximately 35% of
the total branch circuit length. The magnetic trip (instantaneous) function of a conventional circuit
breaker will usually clear a parallel arcing fault in the portion of the circuit from the circuit
breaker to the AFCI receptacle. This is contingent on the available fault current at the panel being
high enough (approximately 500 A), the instantaneous trip value of the circuit breaker being low
enough (less than 200 A), and a low conductor impedance from the circuit breaker to the location
of the fault. The conductor impedance depends on the conductor length, size, and material. These
parameters were used in writing some of the options in 210.12(A). The home run of a circuit is
generally less vulnerable to a fault, being enclosed by construction and not containing splices or
cord extensions. The home run conductors are continuous from the circuit breaker to the AFCI
device, except perhaps for a switch outlet in an existing branch circuit that could be between the
circuit breaker and the AFCI receptacle.

In existing NM cable installations, the AFCI receptacle option cannot be guaranteed to provide
equivalent protection to that of a combination-type AFCI installed at the origin of the circuit. Only
the options in 210.12(A) provide combination-type AFCI protection or its equivalent. Note that
options (5) and (6) of 210.12(A) require more robust protection for the home run than Type NM
cable affords.


2014 NEC

Install combination-type AFCI circuit
breaker in panelboard or install outlet
branch-circuit type AFCI here.
R
Branch-circuit
extension
120-V, 15- or 20-A existing branch
circuit in dwelling unit panelboard
Any room or area specified
in 210.12(A), where branch-
circuit wiring is modified,
replaced, or extended
Section 210.12(B), general rule, 2011 and 2014 NEC

R
Existing
panelboard
Relocated
panelboard
Circuit extension
not more than 6
No AFCI protection
required
Section 210.12(B), Exception, 2014 NEC
120-V, 15- or 20-A existing branch
circuit in dwelling unit panelboard
Any room or area specified
in 210.12(A), where branch-
circuit wiring is modified,
replaced, or extended


210.12(C) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection Dormitory Units

Significance
A new subsection has been added to the requirement for AFCI protection of certain branch
circuits.

Analysis
This new subsection addresses AFCI protection for certain branch circuits in dormitory units.
All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere circuits installed to supply outlets in dormitory unit
living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, closets, and similar rooms now require AFCI protection using
any of the methods in (1) through (6) of 210.12(A). In a typical dormitory room, all branch
circuits will require AFCI protection.

Some living facilities for students at colleges and other institutions are apartments rather than
dormitories. They qualify as dwelling units per the definition of dwelling unit and must be wired
as such. As used in this subsection, dormitory unit does not envision a bathroom or cooking
provisions within the dormitory unit (compartment). A portable microwave oven does not
constitute permanent provisions for cooking.

The AFCI protection requirement now includes dormitory units.

Summary
All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere circuits installed to supply outlets in dormitory unit
living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, closets, and similar rooms require AFCI protection using any
of the methods in (1) through (6) of 210.12(A).

AFCI protection in dormitory units

210.12(C) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Does this new AFCI requirement apply to modification, extension, or replacement of branch
circuit wiring in existing dormitory units?

Answer: No. It applies only to newly installed branch circuits that require AFCI protection.

Code Refresher
Receptacle placement in dormitory units is permitted to accommodate permanent furniture
layout, but the quantity of receptacles installed must be in accordance with 210.52(A) for
dwelling units. At least two receptacle outlets shall be readily accessible. Where
receptacles are installed behind a bed, the receptacle shall be located to prevent the bed
from contacting any attachment plug that may be inserted or the receptacle shall be
provided with a suitable guard. [210.60]


210.13 Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Ground-Fault Protection of Equipment

Significance
This new section will not find wide use but is significant because it involves an expansion of the
ground-fault protection of equipment (GFPE) requirement.

Analysis
New Section 210.13 requires that each branch circuit disconnect rated 1000 A or more and
installed on solidly grounded wye electrical systems operating at more than 150 volts to ground,
but not exceeding 600 volts phase-to-phase, be provided with GFPE in accordance with the
provisions of 230.95. This protection is designed to limit damage to conductors and equipment
when a fault occurs. Each ground-fault protection system must be performance tested and
documented in accordance with the requirements in 230.95(C). A 1000 amp branch circuit is rare,
but could exist in industrial settings.

The new section includes an informational note and two exceptions that are essentially the same
as follows Section 215.10, which address GFPE for feeders. The informational note reminds Code
users that 517.17 must be considered for buildings that contain health care occupancies. Exception
No. 1 addresses a continuous industrial process where a nonorderly shutdown will introduce
additional or increased hazards. Exception No. 2 waives the GFPE requirement where GFPE is
installed on the supply side of the branch circuit and on the load side of any transformer that
supplies the branch circuit.

Summary
Each branch circuit disconnect rated 1000 A or more and installed on solidly grounded wye
electrical systems operating at more than 150 volts to ground, but not exceeding 600 volts phase-
to-phase, shall be provided with ground-fault protection of equipment.

T F A GFPE device will protect persons from shock hazard.

Answer
False. A 5 mA-trip GFCI (Class A) device is designed to protect persons from electric shock.
GFPE devices are available that trip at ground faults of 30 mA and higher.

210.17 (and Article 625) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Part I. General Provisions Electric Vehicle Branch Circuit

Significance
This is a new section providing rules for branch circuits for electric vehicle charging equipment.

Analysis
An outlet(s) installed to supply electric vehicle charging equipment shall be supplied from a
separate branch circuit. This branch circuit shall not supply any other outlets (other than electric
vehicle charging equipment). This is not the same as requiring an individual branch circuit, which
by definition can supply only one utilization equipment. Note that this new section does not fall
within Part III. Required Outlets, therefore a receptacle for electric vehicle charging equipment is
not required to be installed.

The charging equipment is considered a continuous load. The load must be calculated at 125% of
the rated load. This can be a significant load and could affect the adequacy of an existing service.
There is a related change in 625.41, which states that where an automatic load management
system is used, the maximum electric vehicle supply equipment load on a service and feeder shall
be the maximum load permitted by the automatic load management system.

Article 625 Electric Vehicle Charging System has undergone a total re-write. The most
significant changes are more detailed rules pertaining to supply cords and receptacles for electric
vehicle charging equipment and cords between the charging equipment and the vehicle.
Summary
If an outlet(s) is installed to supply electric
vehicle charging equipment, it shall be supplied
by a separate circuit that has no other outlets. The
load shall be 125% of the rated load or the
maximum permitted by an automatic load
management system.

T F A receptacle for the connection of electric
vehicle charging equipment is required to be
installed for all new dwellings.

Answer
False. It is not a required outlet.
Courtesy of Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Cord-connected electric vehicle charging station
16-A, 240-V, 3.8 kW output

210.19(A)(1) Branch Circuits 215.2(A)(1) Feeders

2014 NEC

ConductorsMinimum Ampacity and Size Branch Circuits Not More Than 600 Volts
Minimum Rating and Size Feeders Not More Than 600 Volts

Significance
These revisions are intended to provide clarity on sizing conductors that supply continuous loads.

Analysis
The existing Code language in 210.19(A)(1) for branch circuits and 215.2(A)(1) for feeders has
caused confusion in their application. Code users have found it difficult to interpret the Code rules
for wire sizing, where continuous loads and adjustment or correction factors are involved.

The 2014 revision to these sections attempts to clarify the application of these rules. Two separate
calculations are specified, and conductors are sized based on the larger of the two resulting
conductor sizes, where the separate calculations result in different conductor sizes. Conductors
shall be not smaller than the larger of the sizes calculated in accordance with subsections (a) or (b)
of 210.19(A)(1) or 215.2(A)(1) as applicable.
(a) Where a branch circuit or feeder supplies continuous loads or a combination of
continuous and noncontinuous loads, the minimum conductor size shall have an
ampacity not less than the noncontinuous load plus 125 percent of the continuous load.
(b) The minimum branch-circuit or feeder conductor size shall have an ampacity not less
than the maximum load to be served after the application of any adjustment or correction
factors.

Example
A 3-phase, 4-wire feeder supplies a continuous, nonlinear lighting load of 60 amperes. The feeder
circuit conductors are installed in EMT. The conductors that will be used are rated 90C.
Terminations are rated 75C. What size aluminum conductors are required to supply the load?

Calculations based on subsection (a):
60 x 1.25 =75 A (minimum required conductor ampacity)
From Table 310.15(B)(16): A 3 AWG aluminum conductor is permitted (75 A, 75C column).

Calculations based on subsection (b):
The second paragraph of Section 310.15(B) permits applying adjustment or correction factors
to the table ampacity listed for the conductor insulation, provided the adjusted or corrected
ampacity does not exceed the ampacity listed for the temperature rating of the terminations in
accordance with 110.14(C).

From Table 310.15(B)(3)(a): Adjustment for four current-carrying conductors =80% or 0.80
From Table 310.15(B)(16): The 90C ampacity for a 3 AWG aluminum conductor is 85 A.
85 A x 0.80 =68 A (adjusted ampacity for a 3 AWG aluminum conductor rated 90C)

2 AWG aluminum conductors rated 90C are required.

Summary
There is a change in the method of sizing branch-circuit and feeder conductors where a portion of
the load, or the entire load, is continuous, and adjustment or correction factors, or both, are
required to be considered.

210.52(E)(1) and (E)(2) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets Outdoor Outlets One-Family and Two-Family
Dwellings Multifamily Dwellings

Significance
This change now permits an interpretation of Code that some electrical inspectors have already
been using for locating the required outdoor receptacles at dwellings.

Analysis
Rather than accessible while standing at grade level the required outdoor receptacles for
dwelling units are now permitted to be readily accessible from grade. In the 2011 NEC, in order
for a receptacle located on a deck or open porch with steps to grade to serve as one of the required
outdoor receptacles, the receptacle had to be located near enough to the edge of the deck or porch
to be reached while standing at grade level. The 2014 Code allows a receptacle that is readily
accessible from grade and located on a deck or porch to serve a twofold purpose: as one of the
required outdoor receptacles, and as the required receptacle for decks and porches in
210.52(E)(3). Where a deck or porch exists, most outdoor receptacle use will be for electrical
equipment on the deck or porch. Where a deck or porch is covered (damp location), this new
permission will enable safer use of outdoor outlets by avoiding locating a receptacle in a wet
location. Of course, additional outlets accessible while standing at grade level can be installed.

The rule is essentially the same for multifamily dwellings. For each unit at grade level and
provided with individual exterior entrance/egress, at least one receptacle readily accessible from
grade and not more than 6 ft above grade level is required.

Summary
The required outdoor receptacles for one-family dwellings, each grade-level unit of two-family
dwellings, and for each grade-level unit of multifamily dwellings with individual exterior
entrance/egress, the required outdoor receptacle outlet(s) shall be readily accessible from grade
and not more than 6 ft above grade level.

Application Question: If one of the required outdoor receptacles is on a deck or porch with steps
to grade, is there a maximum height or number of steps that would make this deck or porch
receptacle not qualified to serve as a required outdoor receptacle?
Answer: The Code substantiation suggested not up more than a few steps. The receptacle
cannot be more than 6 ft above grade level. One interpretation is that the receptacle cannot be
more than 6 ft above the level of the deck or porch walking surface as in 210.52(E)(3).
Receptacles readily accessible from grade

210.52(E)(3) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets Outdoor Outlets Balconies, Decks, and Porches

Significance
The new Code allows flexibility in locating outdoor receptacles to serve holiday lighting and other
loads at small decorative balconies, decks, and porches.

Analysis
In the 2011 NEC, a receptacle was required to be located within the perimeter of a dwelling unit
balcony, deck, or porch, where this area was accessible from inside the dwelling unit. For small
decorative balconies, it proved difficult to locate the receptacle within the perimeter of the
balcony, since doors often spanned most or all of the available exterior wall space. This change
permits the required 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle to be installed at a location that is
accessible from the balcony, deck, or porch. As in the previous Code, the receptacle cannot be
located more than 6 ft above the balcony, deck, or porch walking surface.

This subsection also has been revised to apply only to decks and porches that are attached to the
dwelling unit.

Receptacle accessible from
balcony

Summary
Balconies, decks, and porches that are accessible from inside the dwelling unit shall have at least
one receptacle outlet accessible from the balcony, deck, or porch. The receptacle outlet shall not
be located more than 6 ft above the walking surface of the balcony, deck, or porch.

Besides the requirements in this section, what other rules apply to an outdoor receptacle for a
balcony, deck, or porch of a dwelling unit?

Answer
The receptacle must be GFCI protected [210.8(A)(3)], tamper resistant [406.12(A)], be a listed
weather-resistant (WR) type, and be equipped with a weatherproof enclosure suitable for either a
damp or wet location, whichever is the case [406.9(A) and (B)(1)].

210.52(G)(1) Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets Basements, Garages, and Accessory Buildings
Garages

Significance
Most new single-family dwellings include 2- or 3-car garages. This has prompted a change to the
receptacle requirement for residential garages.

Analysis
The rule requiring only one receptacle for a single-family garage, in addition to any receptacles
required for specific equipment, is outdated. Garage space has become larger and has seen uses in
addition to vehicle parking, such as recreational vehicle storage, workshops, home hobbies, etc. If
only one receptacle is available in a multicar garage, odds are good that extension cords will be
needed for car cleaning and other maintenance, and for a host of do-it-yourself projects. The 2014
Code requires at least one receptacle for each car space/lane. Each required receptacle should be
placed to conveniently serve a vehicle space. The circuit(s) for this receptacle(s) is not permitted
to supply outlets outside of the garage. This rule will also help to accommodate the increase in use
of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). A Level 1 EV charger is
supplied from a standard 125-volt receptacle (16 A maximum on a 20-A circuit). If it is known
that the garage will be used for an electric vehicle, a separate branch circuit for charging should be
installed in accordance with new Section 210.17.

This 3-car garage
requires a minimum of
three receptacles, in
addition to any
receptacles required for
specific equipment.

Summary
For a single-family dwelling attached garage, or a detached garage with electric power, at least
one receptacle outlet shall be installed for each car space, in addition to any receptacles provided
for specific equipment. The branch circuit(s) supplying this receptacle(s) shall not supply outlets
outside of the garage.

Can the circuit supplying the receptacles for car spaces also serve garage lighting?

Answer
Yes. It can supply lighting outlets within the garage. It is not clear whether lighting and
receptacle outlets on the outdoor side of the exterior garage wall can be supplied.

210.64 Branch Circuits
2014 NEC

Part III. Required Outlets Electrical Service Areas

Significance
A convenience receptacle is required at electrical service areas.

Analysis
This is a new section in 2014 that requires at least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere-
rated receptacle outlet to be installed within 50 ft of the electrical service equipment. The outlet is
not required in one- and two-family dwellings. The purpose is to accommodate electrical data
acquisition and other test equipment and to facilitate maintenance, without the need to run
extension cords into adjacent rooms or areas. The rule is not limited to indoor installations of
service equipment.

Indoor service equipment room

Outdoor service equipment

The electrical equipment in a separate building supplied from another building is not service
equipment and is not subject to the new requirement. The separate building might contain an
electric room where a feeder enters the building, but the rule pertains only to an electric room that
contains the electrical service. A feeder electrical entrance into a building is covered in Art. 225.

New Section 210.64 is similar to the existing requirement in 210.63, which requires a
convenience receptacle located on the same level and within 25 ft of heating, air-conditioning, and
refrigeration (HVAC) equipment.

Summary
For other than one- and two-family dwellings, at least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-
ampere-rated receptacle outlet shall be installed within 50 ft of the electrical service equipment to
accommodate electrical data acquisition and other test equipment and to facilitate maintenance.

Does the required receptacle have to be located in the electrical service room?

Answer
Interestingly no. Most electrical rooms do not measure 50 ft in any direction! Ask the AHJ .
GFCI

220.12, Exc. Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Calculations

2014 NEC

Part II. Branch-Circuit Load Calculations Lighting Load for Specified Occupancies
Exception

Significance
The 2014 NEC has made provisions to permit the lower general lighting load allowance specified
by energy codes. States must adopt specified model energy codes or their equivalent.

Analysis
Two popular model energy codes, ASHRAE/IES 90.1-2010, Energy Standard for Buildings
Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings and IECC 2012, International Energy Conservation Code
contain standards for energy reduction and efficiency, including standards for lighting. A key
concept of energy codes is the limit that is set on lighting power density (LPD, measured in
watts/ft
2
). Automatic lighting controls are also a major component of energy codes. The LPD
values have decreased over the years with implementation of increasingly efficient lighting
technologies. Smaller electrical services will result in cost savings and reduced levels of fault
current and arc flash energy; smaller transformers will reduce the amount of lost energy.

Section 220.12 specifies the minimum lighting load for specified occupancies. Where a
municipality has adopted an energy code, the lighting load allowed by that energy code will be
significantly less than that permitted in the NEC. For instance, the typical energy code LPD for
offices is .9 W/ft
2
, 1.4 W/ft
2
for retail occupancies, and .6 W/ft
2
for warehouse buildings.

Example: Retail storelighting load calculation: 40 ft x 60 ft =2400 ft
2
total floor area

NEC 2400 x 3 VA =7200 VA
Energy code 2400 x 1.4 W/ft
2
=3360 W, a 53% reduction from the NEC value

The NEC contains a new exception that permits use of the lighting load value determined in
accordance with an adopted energy code provided that:
1. A power monitoring system is installed that will provide continuous information regarding
the total general lighting load of the building,
2. The power monitoring system is set with alarm values to alert the building owner or
manager if the lighting load exceeds the values set by the energy code, and
3. The demand factors in 220.42 are not applied to the general lighting load.

Summary
The general lighting load is permitted to be calculated according to the adopted energy code in
lieu of the values specified in 220.12 of the NEC, where the load is continuously monitored and
the building manager will be alerted if the load exceeds the value set by the energy code. The
demand factors in 220.42 may not be applied to the general lighting load.

For a 1000 ft
2
office, what is the difference in the lighting load allowance between the NEC and
typical energy codes?

Answer
2600 VA. (1000 x 3.5) (1000 x .9) =3500 900 =2600 VA.

240.87 Overcurrent Protection
2014 NEC

Part VII. Circuit Breakers Arc Energy Reduction

Significance
Section 240.87 was introduced in the 2011 Code and has been revised in the 2014 Code cycle. It
contains rules for reducing incident energy caused by arcing fault currents.

Analysis
Where the highest continuous current trip setting for which an overcurrent device installed in a
breaker is rated (or can be adjusted to) is 1200 amps or higher, one of the means listed below shall
be provided to reduce clearing time. Documentation as to the location of the circuit breaker shall
be available to those authorized to design, install, operate, or inspect the installation.

1. Zone-selective interlocking Upstream and downstream circuit breakers communicate
with each other and determine whether the upstream breaker should trip without
intentional delay or after a preset time delay, depending on the location of the fault.
2. Differential relaying The current flowing into the upstream breaker is compared with the
current flowing out of the downstream breaker. Under normal conditions, the difference is
zero. A fault between the upstream and downstream breakers will result in a difference
current that will reach the level of a preset setting and cause the upstream breaker to trip
without delay.
3. Energy-reducing maintenance switching with local status indicator A worker can set the
trip unit to no intentional delay whenever working within the flash protection boundary,
and then back to the normal setting when finished.
4. Energy-reducing active arc flash mitigation system (a new option in the 2014 Code)
Helps in reducing arcing duration in the electrical distribution system. No change in the
circuit breaker or the settings of other devices is required during maintenance when a
worker is working within an arc flash boundary. (Arc Flash Boundary is defined in NFPA
70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.)
5. An approved equivalent means This allows for new technology and innovation.

Digitrip 520MC, Model 5ARMLSIG trip unit for a Magnum DS Power Circuit Breaker
Courtesy of Eaton Corporation and BREAKER OUTLET Circuit Breakers

Maintenance Mode

Arc Flash Reduction Setting

Summary
Where the highest continuous current trip setting for which an overcurrent
device installed in a breaker is rated (or can be adjusted to) is 1200 amps or
higher, an approved means shall be employed to reduce clearing time.

Does an instantaneous trip function in a circuit breaker meet the requirements in this section?

Answer
Yes. However, this is not clear in the actual text of the NEC. It seems the intent is for this rule to
apply only where the breaker is (1) intentionally delayed under short-circuit conditions, and (2)
does not have an instantaneous trip function, and (3) does not have an instantaneous override, or
the instantaneous override is set higher than the potential arcing current.

250.64(B) Grounding and Bonding
2014 NEC

Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation Securing and Protection Against Physical
Damage

Significance
This change will clarify the requirements for installing grounding electrode conductors and
grounding electrode bonding jumpers underground.

Analysis
Table 300.5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 Volts, Nominal, Buried in Millimeters
(Inches) contains cover depths for various wiring methods installed in seven location categories.
Direct burial cables and conductors must be buried 18 in. or 24 in., depending on the location of
the wiring. This Code revision clarifies that this requirement does not apply to grounding
electrode conductors (GECs) or grounding electrode bonding jumpers connecting to any type of
qualified grounding electrode(s). The intent may have been to exempt GECs and grounding
electrode bonding jumpers from only the cover requirements in 300.5(A), but the Code language
is Grounding electrode conductors and grounding electrode bonding jumpers shall not be
required to comply with 300.5. Section 300.5 contains many subsections. Some of these
subsections are clearly not applicable, while (F) Backfill contains requirements for proper
underground raceway and cable installations.

Bonding jumper
Grounding electrode conductors
Soil
250.52(A)(8) Other local metal
underground systems or structures
Physical protection for GECs
Cover requirements in
300.5 are not applicable.

Summary
Grounding electrode conductors and grounding electrode bonding jumpers are not required to
comply with Section 300.5.

Section 300.5(D)(1) Emerging from Grade requires protective enclosures or raceways down to the
minimum cover depth in Table 300.5 for direct-buried conductors emerging from grade. Does this
provision apply to GECs?

Answer
No. Since the depth requirement is not applicable, neither is the protective enclosure required to
extend down to the Table 300.5 depth. This is one of the items that the Code panel is attempting
to clarify. Section 250.64(B) provides for protection against physical damage for GECs.

250.66(A) and (B) Grounding and Bonding
2014 NEC

Size of Alternating-Current Grounding Electrode Conductor Connections to a Rod,
Pipe, or Plate Electrode(s) Connections to Concrete-Encased Electrodes

Significance
This revision seeks to clarify the meaning of sole connection to a grounding electrode.

Analysis
The size of the ac grounding electrode conductor (GEC) is based on the size of the service-
entrance conductors, or equivalent area for parallel conductors, and the effectiveness of the
grounding electrode(s) the electrical system is connected to. The resistance to earth of a ground
rod is generally higher than that for underground metal water piping. Consequently, a ground rod,
or pair of ground rods, requires only a 6 AWG Cu GEC, while the GEC that connects to under-
ground metal water piping could be required to be as large as 3/0 Cu, depending on the size of the
service-entrance conductors. Generally, the sole connection to an electrode is the only connec-
tion to the electrodethe electrode is not used to interconnect electrodes. The GEC connection to
the ground ring, concrete-encased electrode, and ground rods in the diagram below is the sole
connection to these electrodes. Connection to a single or multiple rod, pipe, or plate electrode(s)
still only requires a 6 AWG Cu GEC to the first electrode in the sequence or between electrodes.
The same is true where more than one concrete-encased electrode is used4 AWG to the first
electrode and between electrodes. Sole connection has a different meaning for these electrodes.
800-A service equipment
parallel 500 kcmil copper
conductors, 75C rated
N

2/0 Cu
2/0 Cu
2 Cu (size of gr. ring)
6 Cu
6 Cu
4 Cu
Ground ring
Metal underground water pipe
20 ft min., 2 AWG Cu min.
10 ft min.
8 ft min. rods
At least 20 ft of in. min.
re-bar or 4 AWG min. Cu

Summary
Connection to a single or multiple rod, pipe, or plate electrode(s), or to a single or multiple
concrete-encased electrode(s) does not increase the size of the minimum required GEC specified
for these electrodes. The sole connection sizing provisions are not forfeited.

Application Question: In the above diagram, is the 6 AWG Cu that connects from the water pipe
to the ground rod the sole connection to the rod?

Answer: Yes. For the purpose of sizing GECs in 250.66, it is considered the sole connection.

250.68(C)(2) Grounding and Bonding
2014 NEC

Grounding Electrode Conductor and Bonding Jumper Connection to Grounding
Electrodes Grounding Electrode Connections

Significance
The structural metal frame of a building can serve several grounding and bonding functions.

Analysis
The structural metal frame of a building is permitted to be used as a conductor to interconnect
electrodes of the grounding electrode system or as a grounding electrode conductor (GEC),
regardless of whether the metal frame itself qualifies as a grounding electrode. In the 2011 Code,
the building frame had to qualify as a grounding electrode, by connection to a grounding
electrode, in order to be used to interconnect electrodes or as a GEC. The change seems
inconsequential, though, since using building steel to connect to a grounding electrode or to
interconnect electrodes qualifies the building as an electrode according to the 2011 NEC.
Remember that the NEC is not a design manual [90.1(A)]. The effectiveness of the building steel
fault path must be considered, e.g., joints between steel members, length of fault path, etc.

Service equipment
The structural metal frame of a building is
permitted to be used as a conductor to
interconnect electrodes of the grounding electrode
system or as a grounding electrode conductor.
Grounding electrode
Metal underground
water pipe
N
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R
A
L
E
Q
U
I
P
.

G
R
.

Summary
The structural metal frame of a building is permitted to be used as a conductor to interconnect
electrodes of the grounding electrode system or as a grounding electrode conductor, regardless of
whether the metal frame itself qualifies as a grounding electrode.

Does the first 5 ft of metal water piping, from the point of entrance into a building, have to qualify
as a grounding electrode in order to be used to interconnect grounding electrodes?

Answer
No. The underground water service piping could be non-conductive and the rule will still apply.
The rule is the same for the structural metal frame of a building.

Code Refresher
In other than dwelling occupancies, exposed metal water piping can be used to inter-
connect electrodes or as a GEC. The 5 ft limitation does not apply. [250.68(C)(1), Exc.]

2014 NEC

Grounding Electrode Conductor and Bonding Jumper Connection to Grounding
Electrodes Grounding Electrode Connections A concrete-encased electrode

Significance
This change provides guidance and clarification concerning a permitted method for connecting to
a concrete-encased electrode.

Analysis
The lack of bonding an available concrete-encased electrode to the grounding electrode system is
a common NEC violation in some jurisdictions. If the wireman does not expect to be on site
before concrete pouring, he should make arrangements with the general contractor or concrete
contractor to provide a means for connecting the service neutral to the concrete-encased electrode.
This Code change clarifies that a reinforcing bar or copper wire type concrete-encased electrode
installed in accordance with 250.52(A)(3) can be extended from the location within the concrete
to an accessible location above the concrete to accommodate connection to the service.

The reinforcing bar extension (or stub-up) or copper conductor should exit the concrete in a
location protected from the weather. The American Concrete Institute Standard 318 (ACI
318), Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete, requires a certain thickness of
concrete protection over structural reinforcing bars for reinforced concrete surfaces exposed
to weather or in direct contact with earth. The portion of a structural reinforcing bar
protruding from the concrete wall to facilitate connection to the electrical service neutral is
not performing a structural function, but should be protected from corrosion to ensure the
integrity of the electrical connection.

This 4 AWG copper grounding electrode conductor
is connected to reinforcing bars in the concrete
footing and emerges at the top of the concrete
foundation wall through the hole in the wood sill
plate.
This 4 AWG copper grounding electrode conductor
connects to the neutral bus in the service panel
directly above, passes through the clamp in the
box out at the top of the concrete wall, then
connects to ground rods.

2014 NEC

Summary
A concrete-encased electrode of either the conductor type or reinforcing bar, extended from the
location within the concrete to an accessible location above the concrete wall, is a permitted
method for facilitating the grounding of the service neutral to the concrete-encased electrode.

Where a concrete-encased electrode consists of a minimum of 20 ft of copper conductor, or where
a copper conductor is connected to reinforcing bars in a concrete footing and run to a location
above the concrete wall, what minimum conductor size is required?

Answer
The minimum required size is 4 AWG copper.

More on Concrete-Encased Electrodes (Ufer ground)
The National Electrical Code permits grounding electrodes consisting of concrete-encased
reinforcing bars or at least 20 ft of bare copper not smaller than 4 AWG placed near the bottom of
a foundation footing, or placed horizontally or vertically in a foundation wall. The concrete wall
must be in contact with earth for the encased steel or copper to be an effective grounding means.
This rules out any portion of the concrete electrode that is above grade. Also, that area of the
concrete-encased electrode in contact with frozen ground or dry ground is less effective for
grounding. Hence, the preferred location of reinforcing steel or bare copper is near the bottom of a
support foundation footing. When a foam or plastic barrier is placed between the concrete-encased
steel or copper and earth, the installation does not qualify as a concrete-encased electrode. Other
barriers and coatings may also prevent direct contact between concrete and earth.

Code Refresher
The NEC permits a 6 AWG copper grounding electrode conductor for connection to a rod,
pipe, or plate electrode regardless of the size of the ungrounded service conductors. This
is due to the fact that the rod-to-earth contact resistance and the earth resistance will limit
any current to earth to a level that can be safely carried by the 6 AWG copper. For certain
size services, the minimum required size for GECs that are the sole connection to rod,
pipe, or plate electrodes, concrete-encased electrodes, and ground rings is smaller than
specified in Table 250.66. The GEC size specified in Table 250.66 shall not be reduced
when the grounding electrode is a metal underground water pipe, the metal frame of a
building, other listed electrodes (see the listing requirements), and other local metal
underground systems or structures (e.g., a well casing). The largest GEC required by the
Code for any size service is 3/0 copper.

Even though a 3/0 copper conductor is the largest GEC required by Code, there is no
upper limit on the required size of the equipment grounding conductor. An equipment
grounding conductor performs a different function than a grounding electrode conductor.
Note that a 3/0 copper equipment grounding conductor is suitable for equipment supplied
by a 1200-amp overcurrent device. For circuits of higher rating, a larger equipment
grounding conductor is required in accordance with Table 250.122.


Table 250.102(C) Grounding and Bonding
2014 NEC

Bonding Conductors and Jumpers Size Supply-Side Bonding Jumper

Significance
Instead of using Table 250.66 for sizing supply-side bonding jumpers and certain grounded
conductors, new Table 250.102(C) has been added to the NEC for this purpose.

Analysis
In the 2011 and previous Code editions, several sections referenced Table 260.66 for sizing
jumpers and grounded conductors on the supply side of a service disconnecting means or the first
disconnecting means for a separately derived system. These conductors and jumpers form the link
between the equipment grounding conductors and the neutral/grounded conductor for the fault-
clearing path. Correct sizing is important, since these conductors may be called upon to carry
significant fault current. The reference to supply side means that there is no overcurrent device
upstream except for the utilitys overcurrent device. In the case of separately derived systems,
however, there may be an overcurrent device installed upstream that is within the purview of the
NEC, e.g., the primary OCPD for a transformer- supplied separately derived system.

Revised Section 250.28(D)(1) now refers the Code user to Table 250.102(C) for sizing the main
bonding jumper and system bonding jumper. Section 250.24(C)(1) refers the user to the new table
for the minimum size of the grounded conductor required to be run to the first disconnecting
means. Section 250.30(A)(3)(a) contains a similar requirement that applies to separately derived
systems. Sections 250.102(C)(1) and (C)(2) have been revised to reflect the change, and Section
250.102(C)(3) has been deleted and replaced by Note 2 to the new table.

Note 1 to Table 250.102(C) specifies a multiplier of 0.125 (12%) for sizing grounded
conductors and bonding jumpers for supply conductors over 1100 kcmil copper and 1750 kcmil
aluminum. Note 2 provides requirements for sizing conductors and jumpers where the
ungrounded supply conductors are of different materials (copper, aluminum, or copper-clad
aluminum) than the jumpers. Notes 3 and 4 explain how to perform the sizing where there are
multiple sets of ungrounded supply conductors or no supply conductors, e.g., busway.

The change is appropriate, since the title of Table 250.66 is Grounding Electrode Conductor for
Alternating-Current Systems. The grounding electrode conductor (GEC) connects to earth and
performs a very different function that the conductors and jumpers addressed in the new table. A
GEC is not intended to serve as a fault-clearing conductor. Also, the largest size copper and
aluminum GECs required by Table 250.66 are 3/0 and 250 kcmil respectively, which is smaller
than what is required for some supply-side jumpers and grounded conductors.

Summary
Previous Code references to Table 250.66 for sizing supply-side bonding jumpers and certain
grounded conductors now refer to new Table 250.102(C). These include sizing for grounded
conductors run to the first disconnecting means for utility services and separately derived systems
(even when no neutral loads are supplied), and for the main bonding jumper and system bonding
jumper.


Table 250.102(C) Grounding and Bonding
2014 NEC

Application Question: What minimum size copper main bonding jumper is required to connect
the neutral bar to the equipment grounding bar of a switchboard rated 1600 A? The switchboard is
supplied with four sets of 600 kcmil copper conductors in parallel.

Answer: 300 kcmil copper (4 x 600 kcmil =2400 kcmil; 2400 x 0.125 =300)

Table 250.102(C) Grounded Conductor, Main Bonding Jumper, System Bonding Jumper,
and Supply-Side Bonding Jumper for Alternating-Current Systems

a
For the purposes of this table, the term bonding jumper refers to main bonding jumpers, system bonding
jumpers, and supply-side bonding jumpers.

Code Refresher
250.28(A) and (B) The purpose of the green-colored machine screw supplied with many
panelboards that are listed for use as service equipment is to function as the main bonding
jumper. It is sized to be Code compliant. If the enclosure accidentally becomes energized
by contact with an ungrounded (hot) service conductor, this green screw (main bonding
jumper) will be the link in the fault-clearing path that connects the enclosure to the neutral
of the supply.
250.24(A)(4) The grounding electrode conductor is not permitted to be connected to the
equipment grounding bar unless the equipment bar is connected to the neutral bar with a
wire or busbar (not where the main bonding jumper is a green-colored screw).
Article 100 Definitions: Bonding Jumper, System A system bonding jumper applies
only to separately derived systems. It serves the same purpose as a main bonding jumper
at a service supplied by a utility.
Size of Largest Ungrounded Conductor or
Equivalent Area for Parallel Conductors
(AWG/kcmil)
Size of Grounded Conductor or
Bonding Jumper
a
(AWG/kcmil)
Copper Aluminum or
Copper-Clad
Aluminum
Copper Aluminum or
Copper-Clad
Aluminum
2 or smaller 1/0 or smaller 8 6
1 or 1/0 2/0 or 3/0 6 4
2/0 or 3/0 4/0 or 250 4 2
Over 3/0 through 350 Over 250 through 500 2 1/0
Over 350 through 600 Over 500 through 900 1/0 3/0
Over 600 through 1100 Over 900 through 1750 2/0 4/0
Over 1100 Over 1750 See Notes


2014 NEC

Part VII. Methods of Equipment Grounding Equipment Grounding Conductor
Connections Nongrounding Receptacle Replacement or Branch Circuit
Extensions

Significance
The new Code introduces an additional method for providing an equipment grounding conductor
to enhance the safety of older ungrounded wiring.

Analysis
The existing Code lists several methods for providing an equipment grounding conductor (EGC)
when extending existing ungrounded circuits or when replacing nongrounding receptacles with
grounding-type receptacles. For extending existing ungrounded circuits or replacing non-
grounding receptacles, an EGC can be connected to: an accessible point on the grounding
electrode system, an accessible point on the grounding electrode conductor, the grounded service
conductor within the service equipment enclosure, or the equipment grounding terminal bar in the
enclosure where the ungrounded branch circuit originates. The 2014 NEC introduces an additional
means for providing ungrounded circuits or receptacles with an EGC. The method is illustrated
below. The change permits an EGC to be extended/connected from an outlet box on a different
circuit that contains an EGC. That outlet box can be supplied with an EGC integral with the
circuit wiring (right) or a separate EGC run back to the panel to provide grounding for
ungrounded wiring (center).

Grounded duplex receptacles
with USB charging ports
Existing ungrounded
NM cable
Separate branch circuits
Branch circuit extension
modern NM cable with ground
NM with ground
Or
To equipment grounding
terminal in panel

Summary
An EGC may be extended/connected from an outlet box on a different circuit that contains an
EGC. That outlet box can be supplied with an EGC integral with the circuit wiring or a separate
EGC run back to the panel to provide grounding for ungrounded wiring.

Application Question: What method of providing a separate EGC for ungrounded wiring
provides the lowest impedance for fault current?

Answer: Where the EGC is run in close proximity to the current-carrying conductors of thect.

250.167 Grounding and Bonding
2014 NEC

Part VIII. Direct-Current Systems Direct-Current Ground-Fault Detection

Significance
A new section requires ground-fault detection systems for ungrounded dc systems.

Analysis
Dc systems operate either ungrounded or grounded. Grounded systems connect either the positive
or negative polarity directly to ground (solidly grounded) or through a resistor to ground. A third
type of grounding connects the midpoint, or other point on the system that suits the load, to
ground (solidly grounded). Ground-fault detection is typically not used on solidly grounded dc
systems. New Section 250.167 requires direct-current ground-fault detection on ungrounded
systems and permits detection on grounded systems. Subsection (C) of this new section requires
legible, durable marking at the dc source or the first disconnecting means to indicate the
grounding type employed. Section 320.3(C)(2) of NFPA 70E-2012, Standard for Electrical
Safety in the Workplace, lists four types of dc grounding systems. Employing ground-fault
equipment in ungrounded dc systems limits fault current to very low values, thus preventing the
possibility of fires resulting from high fault currents.

The Bender Model IRDH375 digital ground-fault monitor/ground detector pictured is suitable for
use on ungrounded (floating) ac and dc systems. It meets or exceeds the existing requirement in
250.21(B) for ground detectors in ungrounded ac systems and the new requirement in 250.167(A)
for detectors in ungrounded dc systems. The IRDH375 monitors for ground faults in ungrounded
single-phase ac, three-phase ac, and dc systems by monitoring the system's insulation resistance.
It can be connected to systems of up to 793 volts ac and 650 volts dc.

Model IRDH375 ground-fault
monitor/ground detector

Courtesy of Bender Inc.

Summary
Ungrounded dc systems shall be equipped with ground-fault detection systems. Grounded dc
systems are permitted to have ground-fault detection systems. Dc systems shall be marked at the
source or the first disconnecting means to indicate the grounding type employed.

Is the dc ground-fault detection requirement in 250.167 applicable to PV systems?

Answer
The requirement is general and similar to the existing requirement for ground detectors for
ungrounded ac systems in 250.21. Article 250 applies unless amended by Article 690, PV
Systems. Every Code user needs to understand 90.3, Code Arrangement.

2014 NEC

Part X. Grounding of Systems and Circuits of over 1000 Volts Ground-Fault Circuit
Conductor Brought to Service Equipment

Significance
A grounded conductor must be brought to service equipment over 1000 volts for fault clearing.

Analysis
This new section pertaining to over 1000 volts is similar in its requirements to 250.24(C), which
requires the grounded conductor of systems 1000 volts or less to be run to the service equipment
enclosure(s) for fault clearing purposes. This is true even where the grounded (neutral) conductor
is not used for circuits downstream from the service equipment (no neutral loads). Section
250.186 requires the same for systems and circuits over 1000 volts. The intent is to provide a low
impedance ground return path back to the source to facilitate operation of overcurrent devices.
The NEC is applicable only downstream from the service point. Subsection (A) applies to systems
where the utility provides a grounded conductor to the service point. Subsection (B) applies where
no grounded conductor is available at the service point. Generally, the grounded conductor
brought to the service equipment, or the supply-side bonding jumper in subsection (B), is sized
according to Table 250.66, but other factors apply including 250.184.

E
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.

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.
Supply-side bonding
jumper for connection
to metal enclosures
No grounded conductor
at service point
Utility service
over 1000 V
E
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g
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Utility service
over 1000 V
Service point
Grounded conductor
brought to grounded
(neutral) bus

Summary
For utility services over 1000 V, where a grounded conductor is provided at the service point, the
grounded conductor shall be brought to the neutral bus in the service disconnect enclosure to
provide a low impedance path for fault clearing. Where no grounded conductor is available at the
service point, a supply-side bonding jumper shall be used to connect metal enclosures.

If the enclosure in the grounded system diagram at the left above becomes accidentally energized,
what is the fault return path?

Answer
The path is from the fault (one side of a phase winding) through the main bonding jumper, and
back to the supply transformer winding through the grounded service conductor.

2014 NEC

Part X. Grounding of Systems and Circuits of over 1000 Volts Grounding and
Bonding of Fences and Other Metal Structures

Significance
The 2014 NEC contains rules for grounding metal fences and other metal structures at ac
substations.

Analysis
Most ac substations are not within the jurisdiction of the NEC. However, for installations that are
within the scope of the NEC (see 90.2), like substations for industrial or institutional complexes or
non-utility owned wind generation substations, new rules require grounding and bonding of metal
fencing and other metal structures at substations to limit step, touch, and transfer voltages.

Where metal fences are located within 16 ft of exposed electrical conductors or equipment, the
fence shall be bonded to the grounding electrode system with wire-type bonding jumpers as
follows:

(1) Bonding jumpers shall be installed at each fence corner and at maximum 160 ft
intervals along the fence.
(2) Where bare overhead conductors cross the fence, bonding jumpers shall be installed
on each side of the crossing.
(3) Gates shall be bonded to the gate support post, which shall be bonded to the
grounding electrode system.
(4) Any gate or opening in the fence shall be bonded across the opening by a buried
bonding jumper.
(5) The grounding grid or grounding electrode system shall be extended to cover the
swing of all gates.
(6) Barbed wire strands above the fence shall be bonded to the grounding electrode
system.

Alternative designs performed under engineering supervision are permitted for grounding and
bonding of metal fences. Fence grounding is covered in IEEE 80-2000, IEEE Guide for Safety in
AC Substation Grounding.

Exposed conductive metal structures, including guy wires within 8 ft vertically or 16 ft
horizontally of exposed conductors or equipment and subject to contact by persons, shall be
bonded to the grounding electrode system(s) in the area. The grounding electrode system shall be
in accordance with Part III of Article 250 (see 250.191).

Summary
New Section 250.194 contains prescriptive requirements for grounding metal fencing and other
metal structures at ac substations to limit step, touch, and transfer voltages. The provisions are
applicable where electrical conductors and equipment are exposed.


2014 NEC

This substation serves to connect the wind farm turbines to the utility grid.

What size(s) grounding and bonding conductors are required for the grounding and bonding
required by this section?

Answer
Per 250.191, the grounding system at ac substations shall be in accordance with Part III of Article
250. The title of Part III of Article 250 is Grounding Electrode System and Grounding Electrode
Conductor. Part III will provide guidance, but IEEE-80 should also be consulted.


300.22(C)(1) General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials
2014 NEC

Wiring in Ducts Not Used for Air Handling, Fabricated Ducts for Environmental Air,
and Other Spaces for Environmental Air (Plenums) Other Spaces Used for
Environmental Air (Plenums) Wiring Methods

Significance
Cable ties used with plenum grade cables must also be plenum grade.

Analysis
This new requirement correlates with NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-
Conditioning and Ventilating Systems. NFPA 90A-2012 contains requirements for equipment,
including cable ties and other discrete products, in ceiling cavity plenums and raised floor
plenums. The requirements include a provision for low smoke and heat release properties in
accordance with ANSI/UL 2043, Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete
Products and Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces. This is now the standard for
nonmetallic cable ties and other cable accessories used to secure and support cables in other
spaces used for environmental air (plenums). The nonmetallic cable ties and accessories shall be
listed as having low smoke and heat release properties. The burgundy cable ties pictured below
meet UL 2043 standards. Generally, maroon/burgundy cable ties that have been manufactured
over the past several years have been designed to meet this standard. This standard is not the same
as that for nonmetallic cables and raceways in air-handling spaces, which must meet flame travel
and smoke tests, since their area of exposure is much greater than that of cable fastening devices.

This change has also been made in 770.24, 800.24, 820.24, and 830.24, Mechanical Execution of
Work, and in new Section 800.170(C) addressing listing requirements for plenum grade cable ties.

Note also that the title of Article 300 has been changed to better reflect its contents. Added
language to the title is underlined in the header of this page. The former title was Wiring Methods.

Summary
Nonmetallic cable ties and other nonmetallic cable accessories used for securing
and supporting cables installed in air-handling spaces shall be listed as having
low smoke and heat release properties.

Are communications cables installed in a space used for environmental air
subject to this requirement?

Answer
Yes. See 800.24, Mechanical Execution of Work.

Nonmetallic cable ties listed as having low smoke and heat release properties are generally
identified by a maroon/burgundy color.

Courtesy of Morris Products Inc.

Code Refresher
Chapter 8 (Art. 800, 810, 820, 830, and 840) is a stand-alone chapter and is not subject to
the requirements of Chapters 1 through 7 unless specifically referenced in Chapter 8.

310.15(B)(3)(c) and Table Conductors for General Wiring

2014 NEC

Ampacities for Conductors Rated 0-2000 Volts Tables Adjustment Factors
Raceways and Cables Exposed to Sunlight on Rooftops

Significance
An exception for Type XHHW-2 insulated conductors has been added to this subsection.

Analysis
The NEC requirement in 310.15(B)(3)(c) is slightly modified from the 2011 version. The title of
the subsection now refers to all raceways and cables exposed to sunlight, rather than to circular
raceways only. Research performed on several wiring methods since the previous Code cycle
concluded that all conductors in all wiring methods experienced significant ambient temperature
increases above outdoor temperature when exposed to direct sunlight. Where raceways or cables
are exposed to direct sunlight on or above rooftops, the adjustments shown in Table
310.15(B)(3)(c) shall be added to the outdoor temperature to determine the applicable ambient
temperature to be used in applying the correction factors in Table 310.15(B)(2)(a) or Table
310.15(B)(2)(b). The adders in Table 310.15(B)(3)(c) have not changed, although there was much
discussion about whether or not the adders needed to be increased.

A new exception states that Type XHHW-2 insulated conductors shall not be subject to this
ampacity adjustment. The exception recognizes the heat resisting capability of thermoset
insulation, which does not soften when exposed to heat. The Informational Notes are more
accurately stated in this revision.

The accepted ambient temperature of a conductor is the temperature of the surrounding air. For
conductors in conduits the ambient temperature is the temperature of the air inside the conduit.
Tests have shown that the temperature of the air inside of conduits lying directly on a dark roof
can exceed the outside air temperature by 70F or more. The temperatures inside conduits on
dark-colored roofs are higher than those for light-colored roofs where conduits are on or very near
the surface of the roof. Where conduits are about 1 in. or more above the surface of the roof the
temperature rise is greater for light-colored roof s because of the reflected heat from light-colored
surfaces. Cables and other wiring methods/systems are similarly affected. Despite the differing
test results for different wiring methods and roof colors, the ambient temperature adjustment can
be adequately addressed by considering the distance of the conduit from the surface of the roof.

For application of this subsection, the outdoor temperature value used must be meaningful. The
2 percentile monthly design dry-bulb temperature is a good indicator of the warm-season
temperature. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE) Handbook of Fundamentals, 2009 edition, contains climatic design information in
Chapter 14, which can be referenced concerning design temperatures for various locations.
Another source for design temperatures is the Copper Development Association
(www.copper.org, search under Applications Electrical Building Wire Outdoor and Rooftop
Temperatures for Selected U.S. and Canadian Locations). According to their data for ten Maine
cities/locations, except for island locations in Maine, the 2% design temperatures range from 80F
to 86F, depending on the city/area within the state. In reality, these temperatures will be
exceeded 2% of the time, e.g., 14.88 hours in the month of J uly. Nevertheless, the 2% values are

310.15(B)(3)(c) and Table Conductors for General Wiring

2014 NEC

generally acceptable values for this purpose. Other data sources may suggest slightly higher
design temperatures. The site www. EngineeringToolBox.com (search for outdoor temperature
and relative humidity) lists a design temperature of 90F for Maine. For Phoenix Arizona, the
design temperature listed is 105 F.

Summary
Where raceways or cables are exposed to direct sunlight on or above rooftops, the adjustments
shown in Table 310.15(B)(3)(c) shall be added to the outdoor temperature to determine the
applicable ambient temperature to be used in applying the correction factors in Table
310.15(B)(2)(a) or Table 310.15(B)(2)(b). Type XHHW-2 insulated conductors shall not be
subject to this ampacity adjustment.

Table 310.15(B)(3)(c) Ambient Temperature Adjustment
for Raceways or Cables Exposed to Sunlight on or Above
Rooftops
______________________________________________________
Temperature Adder
Distance Above Roof to Bottom
of Raceway or Cable C F

On roof 0 13 mm (0 in.) 33 60

Above roof 13 mm (in.) 22 40

Above roof 90 mm 300 mm (3in. 12 in.) 17 30

Above roof 300 mm 900 mm (12 in. 36 in.) 14 25

Example: A 3.5 ton gas/electric central air system is installed on a flat rooftop. The manufacturer specifies the
minimum circuit ampacity as 26.8 amps and recommends a breaker size of 40 amps. Supply conductors are run
inside 75 of conduit which is supported by clamps that maintain a distance of between the surface of the
roof and the bottom of the conduit. Using an outside design temperature of 90F, what minimum size THHW
copper conductors can be used to supply the equipment? (Equipment terminals are rated 75C.)

Answer: The electric load consists of a motor-compressor and a fan motor. The manufacturer has already
applied the requirements in 440.22(B)(1) in determining the recommended circuit breaker size, and 440.33 to
arrive at the minimum circuit ampacity for sizing conductors.

110.14(C): The 90C column in Table 310.15(B)(16) can be used as the starting point for ambient temperature
correction; however, the corrected ampacity is not permitted to exceed the 75C rating of the
conductor due to the 75 equipment terminal rating. The adjusted ambient temperature from
Table 310.15(B)(3)(c) is 130F (90 +40). The ambient temperature correction factor in Table
310.15(B)(2)(a) for the temperature range 123F -131F =0.76. The final adjusted ampacity =
30.4 A (40 x 0.76).

The adjusted ampacity does not exceed the 75C ampacity (30.4 is less than 35).
Overcurrent protection for 10 AWG copper is permitted to exceed 30 A, since the circuit rating is
not the basis for conductor overload protection for this motor-compressor circuit. Section 240.4(D)
does not apply to Article 440 (or to several other articles).

A 40-A circuit breaker protecting 10 AWG copper THHW conductors is permitted.

310.15(B)(7) Conductors for General Wiring
2014 NEC

Ampacities for Conductors Rated 0-2000 Volts 120/240-Volt, Single-Phase Dwelling
Services and Feeders

Significance
A familiar table that permits reduced service and feeder conductor sizes for certain residential
applications has been deleted.

Analysis
Most Code users are familiar with Table 310.15(B)(7). The first version of this table appeared in
the 1978 NEC; however, for several preceding Code cycles, notes to ampacity tables and a
Simplified Wiring Table permitted reduced conductor sizes for services, feeders, and branch
circuits where a low demand factor or diversified load existed. Modern Table 310.15(B)(7) is
often used to size service and feeder conductors for residential applications through 400 A. The
table is based on a demand of 83% (adjustment factor of 0.83) for certain residential services and
feeders. It does not modify the ampacities of conductors as stated in the ampacity tables.
Residential electricians know that for certain conductor types they are permitted to use AWG 2
aluminum (4 copper) and AWG 4/0 aluminum (2/0 copper) for 100- and 200-A services
respectively. The reduced wire size also applies to feeders, where the feeder conductors carry the
entire service load. Without Table 310.15(B)(7), residential service and feeder conductors are
required to be AWG 1 aluminum (3 copper) for 100 A and AWG 4/0 aluminum (3/0 copper) for
200 A.

The table has caused confusion and has been misapplied. In some instances, the table has been
applied directly without regard to ampacity adjustment and ambient temperature correction that
was required for an installation. You can understand the confusion when attempting to derate a
conductors ampacity from a table that does not list ampacities, but matches service and feeder
ratings to conductor sizes.

In the 2014 NEC, Table 310.15(B)(7) is deleted and replaced with modified text in Section
310.15(B)(7). As in previous Code editions, the revised section applies to 120/240 volt, single-
phase residential services through 400 amperes. It applies to service conductors of single-family
dwellings and to service conductors supplying individual units of two-family and multifamily
dwellings. Remember that service conductors is a broad term. The service conductors supplying
individual units of two-family and multifamily dwellings is referring to the multiple sets of
service-entrance conductors permitted by 230.40, Exceptions No. 1 and 2. Underground service
conductors could also qualify for this size reduction. The section also applies to feeders in these
same residential applications, where the feeder carries all of the service current. However, the
conductor size reduction does not apply to service conductors that supply two-family or
multifamily dwelling buildings, only to service conductors that supply the entire load for an
individual dwelling unit within these buildings.

To use Section 310.15(B)(7), simply select the desired service or feeder rating, multiply that
rating by 0.83, apply any additional factors required depending on the number of current-carrying
conductors and the ambient temperature, then select a conductor with the required ampacity from
the appropriate ampacity table. See new Example D7 in Informative Annex D. As in previous

2014 NEC

editions, the grounded (neutral) conductor is permitted to be sized smaller than the ungrounded
conductors, provided the requirements of 220.61 and 230.42 for services and the requirements of
215.2 and 220.61 for feeder conductors are met.

Summary
Table 310.15(B)(7) has been deleted. The reduced conductor size permitted for certain residential
services and feeders is still permitted by applying a factor of 0.83 to the rating of the service or
feeder. Additionally, any ampacity adjustment (derating) for more than three current-carrying
conductors in a raceway or cable, or any ampacity correction for ambient temperature must be
applied. If no derating or ambient temperature correction factors are applied, conductors sized
according to 310.15(B)(7) will be the same as obtained by use of deleted Table 310.15(B)(7).

Example 1
What size aluminum XHHW service-entrance conductors are required for a 200-A, 120/240-V,
single-phase service for a one-family dwelling?

Service rating =200 amps.
Multiply by 0.83: 200 A x 0.83 =166 A.
Select an aluminum conductor from the 75C column in Table 310.15(B)(16).
Select 4/0 Al XHHW conductors with an ampacity of 180 A, which is at least 166 A.

Example 2
What size aluminum SER cable containing XHHW conductors is required for a 200-A rated
feeder that carries all of the service load for a one-family dwelling supplied by a 120/240-V,
single-phase service? The feeder cable is embedded in thermal insulation.

Feeder rating =200 amps.
Multiply by 0.83: 200 A x 0.83 =166 A.
Section 338.10(B)(4)(a) states that where used in thermal insulation the ampacity
shall be in accordance with the conductors 60C rating.
Select an aluminum conductor size from the 60C column in Table 310.15(B)(16)
that has an ampacity of at least 166 amps.
250 kcmil aluminum XHHW conductors with a 60C ampacity of 170 A can be used.

A 4-gang meter pack contains 100-A service disconnects for three dwelling units and an owners
panel [common area metering required by 210.25(B)]. What minimum size aluminum SER feeder
cables are required to be run to the four panels? The cables are embedded in thermal insulation in
the exterior wall where the meter pack is mounted.

Answer
If the feeders are not embedded in insulation, AWG 2 aluminum can be used (100 A x 0.83 =83
A AWG 2 aluminum with a 75C ampacity of 90 A). If the feeders are embedded in insulation,
AWG 1 aluminum can be used, since its 60C ampacity of 85 amps is equal to or greater than 83
A. There are two different ampacities that apply to adjacent portions of the same circuit.
Generally, the lower ampacity must be used. However, if the cable length within the insulation is

2014 NEC

not more than 10 or 10% of the cable length not embedded in insulation, whichever is less, then
the 75C ampacity applies to the overall cable and AWG 2 aluminum is permitted. See Section
310.15(A)(2), Exception and the Code Refresher below.

Code Refresher
Section 310.15(A)(2)
This section is used to compute the overall ampacity of circuit conductors, where different
ampacities are permitted for adjacent portions of a circuit. The general Code requirement
is that the lower ampacity must be used for the entire circuit length. By exception, the
higher ampacity can be used if the lower ampacity circuit length is not more than 10 and
not more than 10% of the circuit length of the higher ampacity portion of the circuit.
Different ampacities for the same circuit could exist where a portion of a circuit is
underground, embedded in thermal insulation, bundled, or exposed to a different ambient
temperature. The exception does not apply if conductor ampacity is limited by the rating
of terminations, as specified in 110.14(C). See the diagram below for further explanation.

10 100
60C ampacity 75C ampacity
Circuit conductor can be used at its 75C ampacity.
10/100 = 10% The circuit length corresponding to the 60C ampacity is not more
than 10% of the circuit length corresponding to the 75C ampacity.
8 65
Ambient temp.
of 100F
Ambient temperature of 78-86 (F)
Circuit conductor ampacity must be based on ambient temp. of 100F.
8/65 = 12.3% The circuit length corresponding to the 100F ambient temp. is more than
10% of the circuit length corresponding to the 78-86F ambient temp.
Example Applications of 310.15(A)(2)


330.30(D)(3) Metal-Clad Cable: Type MC

2014 NEC

Securing and Supporting Unsupported Cables

Significance
An additional permission for unsupported Type MC cable is included in the new Code.

Analysis
Unless otherwise provided, Type MC cable shall be secured and supported at intervals not
exceeding 6 ft. Cables containing four or fewer conductors size 10 AWG or smaller shall be
secured within 12 in. of every box, cabinet, fitting, or other cable termination. MC cable run
horizontally in wood or metal framing members, or that has similar supporting means, shall be
considered secured and supported. Type MC cable shall be permitted to be unsupported where:
(1) the cable is fished in finished buildings and supporting is impractical, or (2) the cable is
installed in lengths not exceeding 6 ft from the last cable support to the point of connection to
luminaires or other electrical equipment above an accessible ceiling. Subsection (3) is new in the
2014 NEC and permits Type MC cable with interlocked armor to be unsupported in lengths up to
3 ft from the last secure support to provide flexibility at equipment. The construction of
interlocked armor Type MC makes it suitable for use where flexibility is necessary. The
permission applies where flexibility is necessary to minimize the transmission of vibration from
equipment or where providing flexibility for equipment that requires movement after installation.

OR
Type MC cable
Connector securing
MC cable
Clamp securing
MC cable
3

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Supply to ceiling-suspended
fan requires flexibility.
?

Summary
Type MC cable of the interlocked armor type is permitted to be unsupported in lengths not
exceeding 3 ft from the last point where the cable is securely fastened, where used to connect
equipment where flexibility is necessary to minimize the transmission of vibration from
equipment or to facilitate movement of equipment after installation.

Does an MC cable connector provide the secure fastening that is required in 330.30(D)(3)?

Answer
In 330.30(D)(2), it states that Type MC cable fittings are permitted as a means of cable support
for the purpose of this section. New (3) uses the words securely fastened. Supported and secured
have different meanings. Secured means fastened in place. The AHJ will decide.

338.10(B)(4)(b) Service-Entrance Cable: Types SE and USE
2014 NEC

Uses Permitted Branch Circuits or Feeders Installation Methods for Branch Circuits
and Feeders Exterior Installations

Significance
The ampacity of Types USE and USE-2 conductors has been clarified.

Analysis
Types USE (underground service-entrance) and USE-2 cables are designed and listed for
underground installations, including direct burial in earth. They are available as single conductors
and multiconductor cables. In addition to Types USE and USE-2, some conductors are triple-
rated, such as Type RHH/RHW-2/USE-2 shown below.

Type RHH or RHW-2 or USE-2

Courtesy of Southwire Company

A new exception has been added to 338.10(B)(4)(b), which states that single-conductor Type USE
and multi-rated USE conductors are not subject to the ampacity limitations of Part II of Article
340. Section 340.80 limits the ampacity to that of 60C conductors. Type USE conductors are
rated 60C; Type USE-2 conductors are rated 90C. It may have been the intent in the existing
Code that Types USE and USE-2 conductors were not subject to the 60C ampacity, but the
exception provides clarification.

It is important to remember that Types USE and USE-2 conductors are limited to exterior use,
primarily underground. The conductors can be used above ground only as multiconductor,
messenger-supported aerial cable or where they emerge from the ground and terminate in outdoor
service or metering equipment. Additional usage information can be found in the UL White Book,
Category (TYLZ), Service-Entrance Cable. Type USE conductors do not have a flame-retardant
covering; hence, the prohibition of their use for interior wiring. The triple-rated conductors are
permitted for aboveground use (used as RHW) and interior wiring, since both the RHH and RHW
conductor types have flame-retardant coverings.

Summary
Single-conductor Type USE and multi-rated USE conductors are not subject to the ampacity
limitations of Part II of Article 340, i.e., the ampacity corresponding to a 60C temperature rating
for the conductor.

What is the ampacity of 4/0 AWG aluminum Type USE-2 conductors installed as an underground
feeder to supply 120/240-volt, single-phase power to a structure?

Answer
From Table 310.15(B)(16), the 90C ampacity is 205 amperes. Unless all circuit terminations are
rated for 90C, the 75C ampacity of 180 amperes must be used. See 110.14(C).

348.30(A), Ex. No. 4 (and others) Flexible Metal Conduit: Type FMC (and others)
2014 NEC

Securing and Supporting Securely Fastened

Significance
Fittings are a recognized means of support for three flexible raceway types for lengths up to 6 ft.

Analysis
Existing Code permits Types AC [320.30(D)(3)] and MC [330.30(D)(2)] cables to be unsupported
within an accessible ceiling to supply luminaires or other electrical equipment. The unsupported
cable is limited to 6 ft in length between the last support and the connection to the luminaire or
other equipment. For the purpose of these sections, AC and MC cable fittings are permitted as a
means of cable support.

The change in the 2014 NEC harmonizes with these unsupported cable permissions. The change
applies to three raceway types: flexible metal conduit (Type FMC), 348.30(A), Exception No. 4;
liquidtight flexible metal conduit (Type LFMC), 350.30(A), Exception No. 4; and liquidtight
flexible nonmetallic conduit (Type LFNC-B), 356.30(4). Type LFNC-B is the only type of LFNC
permitted in lengths over 6 ft. For the purpose described, the raceway fittings are considered a
means of support.
6

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FMC
LFMC
LFNC-B
6 ft max. length to support
FMC, LFMC, and LFNC-B fittings are considered a means of
support for up to 6 ft lengths of flexible conduit used to supply
luminaires or other equipment within accessible ceilings.
Courtesy of Southwire Company
Support here may be
permitted by exceptions to
300.11 in existing Code.

Summary
Types FMC, LFMC, and LFNC-B raceways shall be permitted to be unsupported for up to 6 ft in
length from the last point of support to the connection to a luminaire or other equipment within an
accessible ceiling. For this purpose, the raceway fittings are considered a means of support.

For wiring from the J -box to the luminaire in the diagram above, are FMC and LFMC in 6 ft
lengths or less permitted to serve as the equipment ground?

Answer
Yes, with conditions, and since flexibility is not required. The flexible conduit must be terminated
in listed fittings and overcurrent protection is limited to 20 A. See 250.118(5) and (6).

376.22(B) Metal Wireways
2014 NEC

Part II. Installation Number of Conductors and Ampacity Adjustment Factors

Significance
The often misunderstood application of adjustment factors (derating) for over 30 current-carrying
conductors in metal wireways has been clarified.

Analysis
Metal wireways installed above panels are a convenient way to transition from horizontally run
branch circuits to vertical raceways between the wireways and panels, or for routing incoming
circuits to a specific panel among a group of panels. Depending on where the branch circuit
wiring leaves the wireway relative to where the circuit conductors enter the wireway, the number
of current-carrying conductors at a cross section of the wireway could exceed 30 conductors. The
30-conductor threshold does not relate to a total of 30 current-carrying conductors in the wireway,
but to 30 current-carrying conductors at any cross section. This is clarified in Section 376.22(B)
of the 2014 NEC. Where the number of current-carrying conductors at any cross section exceeds
30, the adjustment factors in 310.15(B)(3)(a) must be applied. If 31-40 conductors are installed at
any cross section, all conductors have to be adjusted to 40% of their initial ampacity, 35% for 41
or more conductors. These are deep reductions in ampacity that apply to all current-carrying
conductors, not just to the number of current-carrying conductors over 30.

The raceway entries at the bottom of
this wireway (not shown) are such that
not more than 30 conductors travel
horizontally through any cross section
of the wireway. No ampacity reduction
is required.

Summary
Where the number of current-carrying conductors at any cross section of a metal wireway exceeds
30, the adjustment factors in 310.15(B)(3)(a) must be applied to all current-carrying conductors,
not just to the number of current-carrying conductors over 30.

Thirty-five current-carrying conductors pass through a cross section of a metal wireway. The
conductors vary in size, but most conductors are 12 AWG with an insulation rating of 90C and
an ampacity of 30 amps from Table 310.15(B)(16). What is their adjusted ampacity?

Answer
12 A [From Table 310.15(B)(3)(a): 30 amps x 40% =12 A]

Code Refresher
The sum of the cross-sectional areas of all conductors at any cross section of a metal
wireway cannot exceed 20% of the interior cross-sectional area of the wireway.
[376.22(A)]

392.10(A) and Table 392.10(A) Cable Trays
2014 NEC

Uses Permitted Wiring Methods

Significance
Table 392.10(A) has been revised to clarify the wiring methods permitted in cable trays.

Analysis
Nearly all wiring methods that are permitted for use above ground or inside buildings, and that
consist of cables or circular raceways, are permitted to be installed in cable trays. The wiring
methods permitted in cable tray systems in 392.10(A) are subject to the conditions described in
their respective articles and sections. Cable tray is a mechanical support system for service
conductors, feeders, branch circuits, communications circuits, control circuits, and signaling
circuits. Trays are available in a variety of types and styles to meet various wiring support needs.
Trays have become popular cable management systems for data and other low-energy cabling.
Wire mesh basket trays are included in the scope of Article 392. Trays are not limited to industrial
applications, except that single-conductor cables, welding cables, and medium voltage (Type MV)
cables can only be installed in trays in industrial settings.

Where appropriate, this revision has added the wiring Type abbreviation, e.g., Type ITC
(instrumentation tray cable), in Table 392.10(A) after the title of the article/wiring method. The
wiring methods are listed in the table in alphabetical order. Communications raceways now
include optical fiber raceways and signaling raceway.

Table 392.10(A) does not list all of the wiring methods that are permitted in trays. The table
contains an entry for Other factory-assembled, multiconductor control, signal, or power cables
that are specifically approved for installation in cable trays.

Ladder cable tray
Nearly all wiring methods that are permitted
for use above ground or inside buildings,
and that consist of cables or circular
raceways, are permitted to be installed in
cable trays.

Summary
Table 392.10(A) has been revised to clarify the wiring methods permitted in cable trays. Where
appropriate, the wiring Type abbreviation, e.g., Type ITC (instrumentation tray cable), has been
added in Table 392.10(A) after the title of the article/wiring method.

Is acable tray system a raceway-type wiring method?

Answer
Cable tray does not meet the definition of raceway. It can be considered a wiring method, but is
probably more accurately described as a support system for wiring methods. Note that the title of
Chapter 3 is Wiring Methods and Materials.

392.18(H) and Exception Cable Trays

2014 NEC

Cable Tray Installation Marking

Significance
An exception to cable tray marking has been added for industrial establishments.

Analysis
Cable trays containing conductors rated over 600 volts shall be marked with a permanent, legible
warning notice with the words DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE KEEP AWAY. The warning
shall be placed in readily visible positions along the tray at intervals not exceeding 10 ft. New for
this Code, the warning marking(s) or labels shall comply with 110.21(B). Section 110.21(B) is
itself a new section in the 2014 NEC that contains specific requirements for field-applied hazard
markings and labels.

The new exception is for industrial establishments where the conditions of maintenance and
supervision ensure that only qualified persons will service the installation. The exception applies
to installations of tray that are not accessible (as applied to equipment), and permits the warning
notices to be located where necessary to ensure safe maintenance and operation of the installation.

Note that the Over 1000 Volts conversion from Over 600 volts has not been implemented in this
section.

10 ft max. spacing by general rule
Exception where serviced only by qualified persons: Warning notices shall be
located where necessary to ensure safe maintenance and operation.
DANGER-HIGH VOLTAGE-KEEP AWAY DANGER-HIGH VOLTAGE-KEEP AWAY
Cable tray containing conductors
rated over 600 volts
Red background and
exclamation point
DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE KEEP AWAY

Summary
Cable trays containing conductors rated over 600 volts shall be marked with a permanent, legible
warning notice with the words DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE KEEP AWAY. Where the tray
is not accessible, in industrial establishments where the conditions of maintenance and
supervision ensure that only qualified persons will service the installation, warning notices shall
be located where necessary to ensure safe maintenance and operation of the installation.

What does accessible (as applied to equipment) mean?

Answer
Admitting close approach: not guarded by locked doors, elevation, or other effective means.

ARTICLE 393 Low-Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Dist. Sys.
2014 NEC

Low-Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Distribution Systems

Significance
The increasing availability and use of low-voltage, low-power equipment such as lighting,
sensors, information technology equipment, and audio visual equipment necessitates updated rules
for installation of low-voltage systems and equipment.

Analysis
With the increasing popularity of alternative energy systems providing dc outputs and the low
power needs of energy efficient lighting and other loads, powered ceiling grid offers an innovative
wiring method. Many modern devices use dc power at low voltage and current levels. Cell
phones, computers, LED luminaires, electronically ballasted fluorescent luminaires, sensors,
controls, etc. use dc power at low levels. A ceiling support grid that doubles as a dc distribution
system can be efficiently powered from on-site dc generation (PV, wind, fuel cells) without the
need for DC to AC to DC conversion costs and power losses. Where the ceiling power
distribution grid is supplied by an ac branch circuit, a power server module is used to convert ac
to dc (bulk, rather than multiple separate rectifiers) and provides multiple channels for the
connection of Class 2 output circuits. Low-voltage suspended ceiling power distribution systems
operate at touch-safe power levels. Its plug-and-play design permits room or area repurposing
and reconfiguration without rewiring.

While the current NEC Article 411 limits its coverage to lighting systems operating at 30 volts or
less, Article 393 covers lighting and other loads supplied through powered suspended ceiling grid.
Many of the requirements for the new article are similar to the requirements in Articles 411 and
725. The low-voltage suspended ceiling power distribution system shall be listed as a complete
system or be assembled from only listed parts approved for the function.
Circuits powered by the system shall be limited to 30 volts AC or 60 volts DC and limited to
Class 2 power levels in Tables 11(A) and 11(B) in Chapter 9 of the NEC.

The power distribution systems are permitted in indoor dry locations for residential, commercial,
and industrial installations, and in other spaces used for environmental air in accordance with
300.22(C). They are prohibited in damp or wet locations, classified (hazardous) locations,
concealed locations, for lighting in general or critical patient care areas, and where subject to
corrosive fumes or vapors or physical damage. Unless specifically listed as part of the assembly,
low-voltage suspended ceiling power distribution systems may not be used as part of a fire-rated
floorceiling or roofceiling assembly.

Only the main support rails (defined as grid bus rail in the NEC) of a suspended ceiling are
powered. Power feed connectors connect cables from the power supply to the power distribution
busbar, and rail-to-rail connectors interconnect busbars from one ceiling grid rail to another grid
rail.

Power supplies shall be protected at a maximum of 20 amperes. Reverse polarity (back feed)
protection of DC circuits shall be provided with the power supply, or, where the power supply is
not provided as a part of the system, shall be provided as part of the grid rail busbar or as a part of

2014 NEC

the power feed connector. Generally, Class 2 conductors shall be minimum 18 AWG copper. The
Class 2 circuits shall not be grounded. The disconnecting means for the Class 2 power supply
shall be accessible and within sight of the Class 2 power source for servicing and maintenance of
the power distribution system.

Summary
New Article 393 provides rules for distribution of low voltage current through suspended ceiling
grid designed for power distribution for the supply of luminaires, sensors, and other low-power
devices and equipment located within, on, or suspended below the ceiling grid. Equipment is
supplied by Class 2 circuits using approved cables and connectors.

T F The power limitation for an inherently limited Class 2 DC power supply that supplies
a single circuit to a dc power distribution grid is 100 VA.

Answer
True. See Table 11(B) in Chapter 9 of theNEC.


2014 NEC

Power server module mounted
above ceiling grid

16-channel power module
with Class 2 output circuits

Courtesy of Nextek Power Systems

Cable connectors connecting
to dc power grid

Courtesy of Tyco Electronics Corporation, a TE Connectivity Ltd. company


404.2(C) Switches
2014 NEC

Switch Connections Switches Controlling Lighting Loads

Significance
Five more exceptions have been added to the rule for providing a neutral conductor at a switch
used for the control of lighting.

Analysis
This rule was introduced in the 2011 NEC and requires that the grounded circuit conductor of a
general-purpose circuit that supplies lighting be provided at switch locations for the future
connection of electronic lighting controls such as occupancy sensors. This action was designed to
halt the use of equipment grounding conductors being used as current-carrying conductors for
electronic lighting controls. The Code change addresses those instances where an occupancy
sensor or other electronic lighting control would be redundant, excessive, or impossible to install.
There are seven conditions in which the grounded conductor is not required to be provided:

(1)
2011
Where conductors enter the box enclosing a switch through a raceway,
provided the raceway is large enough to include a grounded conductor
(2)
2011
Where the box enclosing the switch is accessible for the installation of
an additional or replacement cable without removing finish materials
(3)
2014
Where snap switches with integral enclosures comply with 300.15(E)
e.g., boxless switches in 334.40(B) and in manufactured homes
(4)
2014
Where a switch does not serve a habitable room or bathroom e.g.,
closets (wall switches and door-jamb switches), hallways, storage
and utility spaces, garages, etc. Habitable rooms are rooms for
living, sleeping, eating, or cooking.
(5)
2014
Where multiple switch locations control the same lighting load such
that the entire floor area of a room is seen from a single location or
combined switch locations It may be that more than one sensor is
needed to see the entire room or space.
(6)
2014
Where lighting in the area is controlled by automatic means
(7)
2014
Where a switch controls a receptacle load unknown load listing
of sensor will not include a receptacle load See 210.70(A)(1), Exc. 1.

Summary
The grounded circuit conductor of a general-purpose circuit that supplies lighting shall be
provided at switch locations for the future connection of electronic lighting controls such as
occupancy sensors. There are seven conditions where the rule does not applywhere an
occupancy sensor or other electronic lighting control would be redundant, excessive, or
impossible to install.

Does the requirement apply to switch locations not in the illuminated area? Outdoor areas?

Answer
Code panel members agreed that switch locations not in the illuminated area should have a
grounded connection to accommodate some dimmers. It does not appear that the rule applies to
switches for outdoor lighting outlets (habitable area?). A level of illumination is required at
entrances and exits. See 210.70(A)(2)(b) for required lighting at dwelling unit entrances or exits.

404.8(C) Switches
2014 NEC

Accessibility and Grouping Multipole Snap Switches

Significance
The permission for multipole switches to switch more than a single circuit is now more restrictive.

Analysis
In previous Codes a multipole, general-use snap switch was permitted to control more than one
circuit if the voltage rating of the switch was not less than the nominal line-to-line voltage of the
system supplying the circuits. Alternatively, the switch was permitted to control more than one
circuit if the switch was listed and marked as a two-circuit or three-circuit switch. The latter
permission has been brought forward to the 2014 NEC, but the former has been deleted. This is
consistent with the UL Guide Information for Electrical Equipment (the White Book), which
states that Multi-pole, general-use snap switches have not been investigated for more than single-
circuit operation unless marked 2-circuit or 3-circuit. A line-to-line circuit, such as a 240-volt
circuit supplying a 240-volt load, is a single circuit, but a multiwire circuit is not a single circuit.

Must be listed and marked
as a two-circuit switch
Double-pole toggle switch

Summary
A multipole, general-use snap switch cannot be fed from (used to control) more than a single
circuit unless the switch is listed and marked as a two-circuit or three-circuit switch.

If the switch in the diagram above is listed and marked as a two-circuit switch and used as such,
serving single-phase line-to-neutral loads, how will the circuit breakers need to be arranged in the
panel? Is this a multiwire branch circuit?

Answer
The breakers will have to be vertically adjacent and tied with an identified handle tie, or a 2-pole
breaker could be used. This is to satisfy 210.7. A multiwire branch circuit has one neutral.

Code Refresher
210.7 Where two or more branch circuits supply devices or equipment on the same
mounting strap, a means to simultaneously disconnect the ungrounded conductors
supplying these devices shall be provided at the point of origin of the branch circuits.

406.3(E) Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs
2014 NEC

Receptacle Rating and Type Controlled Receptacle Marking

Significance
This new section requires specific marking on receptacles that are energized and de-energized
automatically in conjunction with energy management or building automation.

Analysis
Energy standards currently address building envelope requirements and mechanical equipment
efficiencies such as HVAC (heating ,ventilating, and air conditioning) systems. Standards for
lighting power densities, occupant-sensing controls, daylighting requirements, and equipment like
variable speed fans, etc. have been successfully used to reduce energy consumption. ASHRAE
90.1-2010, Energy Standard for Buildings, Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, is the basis for
the International Energy Conservation Code. This popular ASHRAE (American Society of
Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) standard establishes a baseline for the
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. Section 8.4.2 of ASHRAE
90.1-2010 requires that at least 50% of 125-volt, 15- and 20-amp receptacles installed in private
offices, open offices (including those installed in modular petitions), and computer classrooms be
automatically controlled. The control can be by time-of-day systems, occupancy control, or other
automatic control based on occupancy. This load is commonly referred to as plug load. The rule
does not apply to dwelling occupancies that are not more than three stories above grade.

New Section 410.3(E) of the NEC requires that all nonlocking-type 125-volt, 15- and 20-amp
receptacles that are controlled by an automatic control device or incorporate control features that
de-energize the outlet for the purpose of energy management or building automation be marked to
indicate that they are a controlled receptacle. They shall be marked with the symbol shown below.
The marking shall be visible after installation. The marking is not required for receptacles
controlled by a wall switch as permitted by 210.70 to provide the required room lighting outlets.
The Code allows for either manufacturer marking or a field marking that is acceptable to the
authority having jurisdiction (AHJ ).

There are receptacles currently on the market that operate on Z-Wave technology (automatically
controlled). The receptacle shown below is one such receptacle. At least one of the receptacle
brands currently available is marked to indicate that it is a controlled receptacle. However, the
marking does not conform to the specifics of this new NEC requirement.

Summary
Nonlocking-type 125-volt, 15- and 20-amp receptacles that are controlled by an automatic control
device or incorporate control features that de-energize the outlet for the purpose of energy
management or building automation shall be marked by the prescribed symbol. The marking is
not required for receptacles controlled by a wall switch as permitted by 210.70 to provide the
required room lighting outlets.


406.3(E) Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs
2014 NEC

Automatically controlled receptacle indicated
by symbol on receptacle face

T F The symbol that is required to be placed on automatically controlled receptacles is
permitted to be on the faceplate.

Answer
False. The symbol must be on the receptacle face such that it is visible after installation. For split-
wired receptacles, it should be clear which receptacle is automatically controlled. For a typical
duplex receptacle (not decora style), it may be difficult to locate the symbol such that it can be
seen while an attachment plug is inserted. It is not clear if the visible after installation
requirement means visible after a plug is inserted.

Code Refresher/Revision
406.3(D) Isolated ground receptacles shall be identified by an orange triangle located on
the face of the receptacle. In addition to the marking, some isolated ground receptacles are
orange.

517.18(B) (and other sections) Hospital grade receptacles are identified by a green dot
on the face of the receptacle. Although the Code does not address specifics of the
identification, the green dot is specified in the UL listing. The phrase Hospital Grade or
Hosp. Grade are marked on the back of qualifying receptacles (Hospital Only for 20-
A, 125-V locking receptacles with no green dot).

517.30(E) The cover plates for receptacles or the receptacles themselves supplied from
the essential electrical system shall have a distinctive color or marking so as to be readily
identifiable. The color red is commonly used as the identifier.
Code Revision: The 2014 NEC requires these nonlocking-type, 125-volt, 15- and 20-
ampere receptacles to have an illuminated face or an indicator light to indicate there is
power to the receptacle.


406.4(D)(4) Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs
2014 NEC

General Installation Requirements Replacements Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter
Protection

Significance
This very important requirement was introduced in the 2011 NEC as a new subsection, with an
effective date of J anuary 1, 2014.

Analysis
Since this rule becomes effective with adoption of the 2014 NEC, it is beneficial to review this
section anew. The rule is similar to the rule requiring GFCI-protected receptacles to be installed
where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be GFCI-protected
elsewhere in the Code. Where a receptacle outlet is supplied by a branch circuit that requires arc-
fault circuit-interrupter protection elsewhere in the Code, a replacement receptacle at this outlet
shall be one of the following:

1) A listed outlet branch-circuit type AFCI receptacle,
2) A receptacle protected by a listed outlet branch-circuit type AFCI receptacle, or
3) A receptacle protected by a listed combination-type AFCI circuit breaker.

The options permit the use of AFCI circuit breakers or AFCI receptacles. This requirement is
related to, but should not be confused with, 210.12(B), Branch Circuit Extensions or
Modifications Dwelling Units. Section 210.12(B) has an effective date of J anuary 1, 2011, or
whenever the 2011 NEC is adopted, and requires AFCI protection for specific branch circuits that
are modified, extended, or replaced in existing dwellings. Section 406.4(D)(4) requires AFCI-
protected replacement receptacles for circuits in existing dwellings that require AFCI protection.

R
Receptacle in need
of replacement 120-V, 15- or 20-A existing branch
circuit in dwelling unit panelboard.
Option 3: Install combination-type AFCI
circuit breaker and standard receptacle
at the location of the defective device.
X
Option 1: Install outlet branch-
circuit type AFCI receptacle.
Existing wiring
Option 2: Install outlet branch-circuit type AFCI
receptacle here and a standard receptacle at the
location of the defective receptacle.
Summary
Where existing wiring supplies a receptacle from a branch circuit that requires arc-fault circuit-
interrupter protection by new NEC rules, a replacement receptacle at this outlet shall be a listed
outlet branch-circuit type AFCI receptacle, a receptacle protected by a listed outlet branch-circuit
type AFCI receptacle, or a receptacle protected by a listed combination-type AFCI circuit breaker.

What rooms and occupancy type(s) does this requirement for replacing a defective receptacle with
an AFCI-protected receptacle apply to?

Answer
When replacing a receptacle located in any of the rooms or areas that require AFCI protection for
branch circuits supplying the room or area, AFCI protection for the receptacle shall be provided.
The rule applies to dwelling units and dormitories.

406.9(B)(1) Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs
2014 NEC

Receptacles in Damp or Wet Locations Wet Locations Receptacles of 15 and 20
Amperes in a Wet Location

Significance
The requirement for extra-duty outlet box hoods has been broadened in its application.

Analysis
There have been many failures of in-use covers. The hinges for some types of covers are not
durable, sometimes leaving the receptacle uncovered. The so-called extra-duty cover/hood was
introduced in the 2011 NEC and was required for receptacles installed in wet locations on
enclosures supported from grade at other than one- or two-family dwellings. The 2014 NEC
requires these extra-duty covers on all 15- and 20-ampere, 125- through 250-volt receptacles
installed in wet locations. Hoods installed for this purpose shall be listed and identified as extra-
duty. Section 590.4(D)(2) applies the same new requirement to temporary installations.

The more durable hoods will be beneficial for harsh work environments such as outdoor
receptacles at construction sites and will help to alleviate the problem of broken in-use covers in
all applications and occupancy types.

It may be difficult to identify an extra-duty hood. Generally, they are constructed of metal.
Requirements for extra-duty outlet box hoods are found in ANSI/UL 514D-2000, Cover Plates for
Flush-Mounted Wiring Devices.

RedDotCode KeeperUniversal While-In-Use Cover

Thomas & Betts Corp.

Summary
Extra-duty hoods are required on all 15- and 20-ampere, 125- through 250-volt receptacles
installed in wet locations.

What is a wet location?

Answer
For the purpose of this section, a wet location is an unprotected location exposed to weather.
Since the receptacle is exposed to weather, the receptacle must be weatherproof, constructed or
protected so that exposure to the weather will not interfere with successful operation.

406.15 Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs

2014 NEC

Dimmer-Controlled Receptacles

Significance
This change permits, with limitations, the use of dimmers for the control of receptacles used for
lighting.

Analysis
Section 404.14(E) permits general-use dimmer switches to be used only to control permanently
installed incandescent luminaires unless listed for the control of other loads and installed
accordingly. Dimmers have been misapplied for control of low-voltage, under-cabinet lighting
and other cord-and-plug-connected lighting to achieve desired lighting levels or ambience. New
Section 406.15 permits dimmer control of receptacles used for lighting purposes, so long as the
plug/receptacle combination is a nonstandard configuration type that is specifically listed and
identified for each such unique combination. One such nonstandard configuration is pictured
below. The duplex receptacle marked CAUTION LAMP LOADS ONLY will not accept plugs that are not
intended to be used with this receptacle. The plug shown is listed for this combination.

Summary
Dimmer control of receptacles used for lighting purposes is permissible, so long as the
plug/receptacle combination is a nonstandard configuration type that is specifically listed and
identified for each such unique combination.

Is the receptacle pictured above a 15-A or a 20-A receptacle?

Answer
The protrusion between the receptacle slots is not all thats nonstandard. The neutral T-slot
appears the same as that of a 20-A receptacle, but the slot on the hot side is shorter than that of a
typical receptacle. Note the nonstandard blade width on the plug. Actually, it is a 20-A, Lutron
Nova T receptacle, model #NTR-20-DFDU-IV.

408.55(C) Switchboards, Switchgear, and Panelboards
2014 NEC

Part IV. Construction Specifications Wire-Bending Space Within an Enclosure
Containing a Panelboard Back Wire-Bending Space

Significance
The new Code addresses wire-bending space for conductors entering the back of an enclosure.

Analysis
Existing requirements for wire-bending space at the top, bottom, and sides of panelboard
enclosures are specified in Tables 312.6(A) and (B). Top and bottom wire-bending space is
described in Table 312.6(B), with exceptions, and side wire-bending space is described in Table
312.6(A). These rules in 408.55 have been reorganized in subsections (A) and (B) in the 2014
NEC. In the new rules in subsection (C), where a raceway or cable entry is in the wall of an
enclosure opposite a removable cover, the depth of the enclosure (distance from the wall to the
cover) shall be permitted to be the distance required in Table 312.6(A) for one wire per terminal.
In the panelboard below, for a 4/0 AWG conductor entry in the back wall of the panel, the
enclosure is required to be a minimum of 4 in. deep. This is the approximate depth of many
residential loadcenters. Also, the distance from the center of the rear entry to the nearest
termination for the entering conductors shall not be less than the distance required in Table
312.6(B). From that table, the distance from the center of the cable or raceway entry (for a 4/0
AWG conductor, other than compact Alum.) to the nearest termination for the entering conductors
shall not be less than 7 in.

Existing Section 312.6 contains requirements for minimum width of wiring gutters and minimum
wire-bending space at terminals for conductors entering or leaving cabinets, cutout boxes, and
meter socket enclosures. Panelboards are placed in cabinets or cutout boxes (enclosures).

7 min.

Summary
Where a raceway or cable entry is in the wall of an enclosure opposite a
removable cover, the distance from that enclosure wall to the cover shall be
permitted to be the distance required in Table 312.6(A) for one wire per
terminal. Also, the distance from the center of the rear entry to the nearest
termination for the entering conductors shall not be less than the distance
given in Table 312.6(B).

Is it permissible for a 4/0 Al SEU cable to enter the rear of the panelboard
pictured, on either side of, and adjacent to, the panelboard frame?

Answer
From Table 312.6(A), for one 4/0 conductor per terminal, the minimum depth required for the
panel is 4 in. From Table 312.6(B), the minimum wire-bending space required is 7 in. Since the
gutter is narrow, the 4/0 conductors would have to run vertically up or down inside the panel a
distance of 7 in. after entering the panel before bending to terminate on a circuit breaker.
4/0 AWG

422.23 Appliances
2014 NEC

Tire Inflation and Automotive Vacuum Machines

Significance
Not all ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) requirements are located in Article 210. This
expansion of GFCI requirements is in Article 422 and applies to specific appliances.

Analysis
GFCI protection for personnel (5 mA) is required by the 2014 Code for tire inflation and
automotive vacuum machines provided for public use. Much of this equipment is hard-wired and
will be protected by GFCI circuit breakers, but GFCI receptacle protection is permitted. Where
this equipment is outdoors and is cord-and-plug connected, this is not a Code change, since
outdoor convenience receptacles in public spaces have been required to be GFCI protected since
the 2005 NEC. Most of this equipment is located outdoors subject to the elements and used by
persons standing on conductive, sometimes wet, surfaces. Deteriorated electrical equipment
expected to experience severe use is a good reason for requiring life-saving GFCI protection. All
tire inflation equipment, but only automotive vacuum machines are covered by this requirement.

Tire inflation and automotive vacuum equipment

Summary
The electrical supply for tire inflation and automotive vacuum machines provided for public use
shall have GFCI protection for personnel.

T F Only tire inflation and automotive vacuum machines supplied by 120-volt, 15- and
20-amp circuits are required to be GFCI protected.

Answer
False. The GFCI requirement is broadly stated and applies to any voltage and current rating, and
to both receptacle supplied and hard-wired (protected by a GFCI circuit breaker) equipment.

GFCI protection required
210.12(A)

424.66(A) and (B) Fixed Electric Space-Heating Equipment
2014 NEC

Part VI. Duct Heaters Installation General Limited Access

Significance
Specific requirements have been added for access to and working space about electric duct heaters
installed in a space above a ceiling.

Analysis
Existing Code requires access to duct heaters and sufficient clearance to permit replacement of
controls and heating elements and for adjusting and cleaning. Existing Code also states in the last
sentence in 424.66: See 110.26. This is not mandatory language requiring compliance with the
working space rules in 110.26.

Working space about electrical enclosures for resistance heating element-type duct heaters that are
mounted on duct systems and contain equipment that requires adjustment, servicing, or
maintenance while energized shall comply with the requirements of new subsection (B), Limited
Access. Where the heating enclosure is located in a space above a ceiling, the following rules
apply:

(1) The enclosure shall be accessible through a lay-in type ceiling or an access panel(s).
(2) The width of the working space shall be the width of the enclosure or a minimum of 30
in., whichever is greater.
(3) All doors or hinged panels shall open to at least 90 degrees.
(4) The space in front of the enclosure shall comply with the depth requirements in Table
110.26(A)(1). Ceiling grid T-bar shall be permitted in this space.

This will make for a much safer work zone for service personnel working on ladders and around
grounded metal objects above a suspended ceilingmetal building structure, metal piping, etc.

Summary
Installations of electric heaters in ducts above
accessible ceilings shall have a working space width
the greater of 30 in. or the width of the equipment,
shall permit hinged panels to open at least 90, and
shall have a front working space depth in
accordance with Table 110.26(A)(1).

What is the depth of the front working space
required by 424.66(B) for a 480-volt duct heater?
(Assume no grounded parts opposite the heater.)
Electric duct heaters

Courtesy of Rapid Cool

Answer
From Table 110.26(A)(1): For the nominal voltage to ground range of 151600 volts and
Condition 1(no live or grounded parts on the other side of the working space), the required depth
of the working space is 3 ft.

445.11 Generators
2014 NEC

Marking

Significance
For safe utilization of generators, it is necessary to know whether or not the generator neutral is
connected to the frame of the generator. A new section requires that this information be marked
on the generator.

Analysis
Generators can be connected for use as separately derived systems or as non-separately derived
systems. Generators are used as stand-alone systems for recreational and other purposes, for
temporary power at construction sites, and for backup power supplying premises wiring for
residences and small commercial properties. Different uses require different wiring connections,
sometimes requiring the generator neutral to be bonded to the frame and sometimes requiring
isolation between the generator neutral and generator frame.

Often, generators are connected by persons not trained in electrical wiring. This is especially true
of portable generators. Adverse weather conditions, standing water, and flexible power cords that
may be subject to physical damage are all potential hazards related to the use of small portable
generators. GFCI protection is required in most instances and is critical to the safe utilization of
electricity supplied by portable generators. (See new Section 445.20 and existing Section
590.6(A)(3) for GFCI requirements on portable generators 15 kW or smaller.) In order for GFCI
receptacles to operate properly, the neutral of the generator must be connected (bonded) to the
generator frame. However, it cannot be readily determined whether or not the generator neutral is
connected to the frame of the generator, nor can the bonding or lack thereof be necessarily
modified in the field. Generators that employ a floating neutral are inherently safe, since the
neutral point of the generator winding is not connected to the generator frame or to earth. Thus,
there is no conductive path through earth for current supplied from the generator.

Section 445.11 of the 2014 NEC requires the manufacturer to mark the generator denoting
whether or not the generator neutral is bonded to the generator frame. If this connection is
modified in the field, updated field marking is required that denotes whether or not the generator
neutral is bonded to the frame of the generator. The location of any bonding connection is not
required to be marked. In some cases, this connection is not accessible for field modification, nor
is it required to be accessible.

This Code change seeks to address safety concerns mainly associated with the use of portable
generators, but the change also applies to stationary generators.

Summary
Generator manufacturers are required to mark the generator to denote whether or not the neutral
of the generator winding is connected to the frame of the generator. If this connection is modified
in the field, updated field marking is required that denotes whether or not the generator neutral is
bonded to the frame of the generator.


445.11 Generators
2014 NEC

T F The manufacturers marking denoting whether or not the generator neutral is connected
to the generator frame must include the location of any bonding connection.

Answer
False. The location of the bonding connection is not required to be marked. On some generators,
the bonding connection is not intended to be accessible.

Courtesy of Robin America Inc.

Output panel of a Robin Subaru portable generator

Required factory marking

445.20 Generators
2014 NEC

Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Receptacles on 15-kW or Smaller
Portable Generators

Significance
A new rule addressing ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) protection for personnel on small
portable generators differentiates between stand-alone generators and those that will be connected
to grounded premises wiring systems.

Analysis
The 2014 NEC requires that all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp receptacles that are part of
a 15-kW or smaller portable generator be provided with GFCI protection for personnel integral to
the generator or receptacle, unless these receptacles are not available (switched off) when the
generators 125/250-volt receptacle is being used. If the generator does not have a 125/250-volt
locking-type receptacle, this requirement shall not apply.

[If the generator was manufactured or remanufactured prior to January 1, 2015, listed cord
sets or devices incorporating listed ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel
identified for portable use shall be permitted.] The text in brackets is the essence of a
Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA) 14-2, effective November 11, 2013. This action/section
will be reevaluated as a proposal (public input) during the next Code cycle.

This new rule seeks to provide optimal safety by permitting, in some cases, the inherently safe
floating neutral configuration frequently used for stand-alone systems. Where a generator is
supplying 125/250-volt power to a building wiring system, the 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-
amp receptacles must be made unavailable or equipped with GFCI protection.

Many small portable generators are used by homeowners when utility power is lost, most
commonly for outages due to storms. Often a flexible power cord is used as a patch cord to supply
120/240-volt power to the residence through a transfer switch that does not switch/break the
neutral conductor. With this connection the generator neutral is now grounded (earthed) through
the grounding electrode system of the utility service. Use of other receptacles on the generator
without GFCI protection poses a hazard, since now a conductive path through earth has been
established. The path can be traced from a point of contact with earth, to the grounding electrode
system of the utility supplied service, to the service neutral, then back to the generator winding
through the neutral conductor of the generator supply cord. The point of contact with earth could
be a person standing on the ground operating a power tool where the metal frame of the tool has
become accidentally energized. This makes a good case for the Code change.

The inherent safety of the floating neural system is based on the fact that the neutral point of the
generator winding (or one side of a winding that is not center-tapped) is isolated from the frame of
the generator and earth ground. Thus, if a person standing on the ground contacts an energized
metal part of equipment supplied from the generator, there is no shock hazard due to the lack of a
current path through earth back to the power source. It is important to know whether or not the
neutral is connected to the frame of the generator so that the generator can be connected correctly
for safe operation. A related change in Section 445.11 of the 2014 NEC requires the manufacturer
to mark the generator denoting whether the generator winding is bonded to the generator frame.

445.20 Generators
2014 NEC

This expands the 2011 Code change that required GFCI protection where these portable
generators were used for temporary wiring, except that the GFCI requirements in 590.6(A)(3) also
include 125-volt, 30-amp receptacles and 125/250-volt receptacles.

Summary
For generators manufactured beginning J anuary 1, 2015, all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-
amp receptacles that are part of 15-kW or smaller portable generators shall be provided with
GFCI protection for personnel integral to the generator or receptacle, unless these receptacles are
not available (switched off) when the generators 125/250-volt receptacle is being used. This
requirement shall not apply if the generator does not have a 125/250-volt locking-type receptacle.

125/250-volt locking-
type receptacle

No GFCI protection is
provided.

Receptacles cannot
be switched off.

This generator is
exempt from these
new requirements
(grandfathered)
because of the date of
manufacture.

T F Where a portable generator less than 15-kW is used for temporary power on a
construction site, 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp receptacles on the generator are
not required to be GFCI protected. (The generator is not equipped with a 125/250-volt
receptacle. The generator was manufactured after J anuary 1, 2011.)

Answer
False. All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp receptacles that are part of 15-kW or smaller
portable generators used for temporary power are required to be GFCI protected by Section
590.6(A)(3). Listed cord sets or devices incorporating listed GFCI protection identified for
portable use are permitted for use with 15-kW or smaller portable generators manufactured or
remanufactured prior to J anuary 1, 2011. This section has not changed in the 2014 NEC. It is
noteworthy that where the frame of a generator is bonded to the neutral and earthed with a
suitable ground rod, a malfunctioning/failed GFCI receptacle on the generator will pose more of a
safety hazard to persons than a floating neutral generator with non-GFCI receptacles. With a
floating neutral generator, two faults (a fault on each side of the winding with one side faulted to
the frame) are necessary for a shock hazard to be present, but the voltage might be 240 volts.

450.10(A) Transformers and Transformer Vaults
2014 NEC

Grounding Dry-Type Transformer Enclosures

Significance
The Code contains new requirements and guidance for the connection of grounding and bonding
conductors within transformer enclosures.

Analysis
Occasionally, inspectors will see electrical connections made to the metal grille or grating at the
bottom of transformer enclosures. The grille shown in the photograph below will not easily
accommodate connections, but other grilles might. The Code change states that where separate
equipment grounding conductors and supply-side bonding jumpers are installed, a terminal bar for
the connection of all grounding and bonding conductors shall be secured inside the transformer
enclosure. The terminal bar shall be bonded to the enclosure in accordance with 250.12 and shall
not be installed on or over any vented portion of the enclosure. This will help to ensure proper
transformer ventilation. Also, these metal grilles have not been evaluated as grounding and
bonding equipment and are not suitable as a fault current path. The connections within the base of
the transformer pictured are acceptable, since the metal grille is not used for connections and the
connections are located suitably above the grille. Lug kits are available for these grounding and
bonding connections. There is an exception for transformers with leads rather than terminals.

There are no electrical connections made
to or on the metal grille, and ventilation is
not hindered by electrical connections.

Bottom view of a dry-type transformer
mounted on a wall and supported by
brackets

Summary
Where separate equipment grounding conductors and supply-side bonding jumpers are installed, a
terminal bar for the connection of all grounding and bonding conductors shall be secured inside
the transformer enclosure. The terminal bar shall be bonded to the enclosure in accordance with
250.12 and shall not be installed on or over any vented portion of the enclosure.

Application Question: What are the requirements of 250.12?

Answer: Section 250.12, Clean Surfaces, requires nonconductive coatings (such as paint,
lacquer, and enamel) to be removed from threads and other contact surfaces of equipment to be
grounded to ensure good electrical continuity, unless the means of connection make it
unnecessary to remove such coatings.
OK

450.11(B) Transformers and Transformer Vaults
2014 NEC

Marking Source Marking

Significance
A new subsection has been added to 450.11clarifying that it may be permissible to reverse feed
(or back feed) a transformer.

Analysis
Perhaps the most common polyphase transformer in use is a step-down, 480-volt, delta-connected
primary to a 208/120-volt, wye-connected secondary. A 3-phase transformer that steps up from
208-V to 480-V may not be as readily available as the common step-down transformer. Section
450.11(B) permits a transformer to be supplied at the marked secondary voltage provided the
installation is in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

When a transformer is reverse fed, there are several factors that must be considered. A
transformer is constructed for either a step-up or step-down function, having its primary and
secondary winding impedances specifically designed for the purpose. When a secondary winding
is supplied (becomes the primary), the value of the magnetizing inrush current will be very high,
and an overcurrent protective device that will not trip upon energization must be sized in
accordance with 450.3. Where primary taps and compensating windings are present, tap
adjustments must be considered. Transformer grounding is also a concern. The neutral point of the
wye-connected primary must not be grounded and must not be bonded to the transformer
enclosure. A fan cooled transformer (general-purpose specialty transformer) cannot be reverse fed
due to UL regulations.

480 208Y/120
H1
H2
H3
P1 P2
P3
S1 S2
S3
X1
X2
X3
X0
Designed as step-down transformer
Connected reverse feed
Supply side
Load side

Summary
A transformer is permitted to be supplied at the marked secondary voltage (reverse fed) provided
the installation is in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

Should the neutral point of the wye connection for the reverse fed transformer in the diagram
above be grounded as a separately derived system?

Answer
No. The wye-connected supply side is not a separately derived system. The delta-connected side
does constitute a separately derived system. The delta should be corner grounded (B phase).

Article 480 Storage Batteries
2014 NEC

Article 480 Storage Batteries

Significance
Changes to this article involve accessibility to battery terminals, working space about battery
systems, egress from battery rooms, and illumination of spaces containing battery systems.

Analysis
New subsection 480.8(C) requires that the terminals of all cells or multi-cell units be readily
accessible for readings, inspection, and cleaning where required by the equipment design. One
side of transparent battery containers shall be readily accessible for inspection of the internal
components.

Subsection 480.9(C) has been expanded to provide side clearance for cell containers. For battery
racks, a minimum clearance of 1 in. is required between containers and any wall or structure on
the side not requiring maintenance. New subsection (D) has been added to address working space
around top terminal batteries. Where top terminal batteries are installed on tiered racks, working
space in accordance with the battery manufacturers instructions shall be provided between the
highest point on a cell and the ceiling or battery row above. As in the previous Code, working
spaces about battery systems shall also comply with 110.26.

Courtesy of ACRAN Spill Containment Inc.

New subsection 480.9(E) requires that personnel
doors intended for entrance to, and egress from,
designated battery rooms open in the direction of
egress and be equipped with listed panic hardware.

Illumination requirements are set forth in new
subsection 480.9(G). Illumination shall be provided
for working spaces containing battery systems. The
lighting outlets are not permitted to be controlled by automatic means only. If the work space is
illuminated by an adjacent light source, additional lighting outletsshall not be required. The
location of luminaires shall not:
(1) Expose personnel to energized battery components while performing maintenance on the
luminaires in the battery space; or
(2) Create a hazard to the battery upon failure of a luminaire.

Summary
The terminals of all cells shall be readily accessible. A minimum side clearance of 1 in. shall be
maintained between a cell container and any wall or structure. Top terminal batteries require
vertical working space in accordance with the battery manufacturers instructions. Doors in
battery rooms shall open in the direction of egress and be equipped with listed panic hardware.
Illumination shall be provided for working spaces containing battery systems, with specific rules
for locating luminaires.


517.18 Health Care Facilities
2014 NEC

General Care Areas Patient Bed Location Patient Bed Location Receptacles

Significance
Several changes have been made in the 2014 NEC to harmonize with NFPA 99, Health Care
Facilities Code. One significant change is the increase in required receptacles at patient bed
locations.

Analysis
The number of required receptacles at patient bed locations in general care areas has increased
from four to eight hospital grade receptacles. As in the previous Code, the receptacles are
permitted to be of the single, duplex, or quadruplex type, or any combination of the three. Also, to
harmonize with NFPA 99, the term emergency system is no longer used in Article 517. Instead of
being considered branches of the emergency system, the life safety branch and the critical branch
are branches of the essential electrical system.

One or more branch circuits supplying patient bed locations in general care areas shall be from the
normal system and one or more branch circuits shall be from the critical branch (rather than from
the emergency system). The receptacles or cover plates of receptacles supplied from the critical
branch(s) shall have a distinctive color or marking so as to be readily identifiable and shall also
indicate the panelboard and branch circuit number supplying them. This is an existing requirement
for patient bed locations in critical care areas.

Summary
The minimum number of receptacles required at patient bed locations in general care areas has
been increased from four to eight.

T F A patient bed location with four duplex receptacles satisfies the NEC requirement in
517.18 for the minimum number of required receptacles.

Answer
True. A receptacle is a contact device. A duplex receptacle consists of two contact devices. See
the definition of receptacle in Article 100.

Code Refresher
517.13 Redundant grounding is required in patient care areas of health care facilities. To
accomplish this, the wiring method must be a metal raceway system or a cable having a
metallic armor or sheath that qualifies as an equipment grounding conductor in
accordance with 250.118. The redundant grounding requirement applies also to patient
care areas in nursing homes, clinics, medical and dental exam rooms, therapy areas, and
similar rooms or areas where electrical equipment is used in the treatment of patients. An
example of where the requirement does not apply is a physiologists office where
counseling is given.

517.18 and 517.19 Health Care Facilities

2014 NEC

Patient Bed Location

General Care Areas: Minimum of eight receptacles required
Critical Care Areas: Minimum of fourteen receptacles required

For patient bed locations in general care areas, the receptacles or cover plates of receptacles supplied
from the critical branch(s) shall have a distinctive color or marking so as to be readily identifiable and
shall also indicate the panelboard and branch circuit number supplying them. This is an existing
requirement for patient bed locations in critical care areas.
Normal system Critical branch

517.19 Health Care Facilities
2014 NEC

Critical Care Areas Patient Bed Location Branch Circuits Patient Bed Location
Receptacles

Significance
In order to harmonize with NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code, the number of required
receptacles at patient bed locations in critical care areas has been increased from eight to fourteen.

Analysis
As stated in the analysis of changes to 517.18, the term emergency system is no longer used in
Article 517. The three branches of the essential electrical system are the equipment branch, the
life safety branch, and the critical branch.

One or more branch circuits supplying patient bed locations in critical care areas shall be from the
normal system and one or more branch circuits shall be from the critical branch. The receptacles
must be listed hospital grade and so identified.

The minimum number of receptacles required at patient bed locations in critical care areas has
increased from eight to fourteen. At least one of the receptacles shall be connected to either:
1) a normal system branch circuit, or
2) a critical branch circuit supplied by a different transfer switch than the other
receptacles at the same patient bed location.

The receptacles are permitted to be of the single, duplex, or quadruplex type, or any combination
of the three.

Summary
The minimum number of receptacles required at patient bed locations in critical care areas has
increased from eight to fourteen.

T F All receptacles at a patient bed location in a critical care area are permitted to be
supplied from the critical branch to enhance reliability of electric supply.

Answer
True, with conditions. All receptacles are permitted to be supplied from the critical branch,
provided that at least one circuit is supplied from a different transfer switch than the other
receptacles. If all circuits are supplied from the same transfer switch, there is more potential
hazard than where the circuits are supplied from the normal system and the critical branch. If all
receptacles are supplied from the critical branch and connected to the same transfer switch, a
malfunction of the transfer switch (e.g., not reconnecting to normal power after a generator test)
will leave the bed location with no power.

517.19(C) Health Care Facilities
2014 NEC

Critical Care Areas Operating Room Receptacles

Significance
This is a new subsection that contains requirements for operating room receptacles. It is intended
to coordinate NEC requirements with requirements of NFPA 99.

Analysis
This new section requires that there be a minimum of thirty-six receptacles in operating rooms of
health care facilities. As is the case for patient bed locations, the receptacles are permitted to be of
the single, duplex, or quadruplex type, or any combination of the three.

At least twelve of the receptacles shall be supplied from either:

1) The normal system branch circuit required in 517.19(A), or
2) A critical branch circuit supplied from a different transfer switch than the other
receptacles at the same location.

The receptacles shall be listed hospital grade and be so identified. The grounding terminal of
each receptacle shall be connected to the reference grounding point by an insulated copper
equipment grounding conductor. The reference grounding point is the ground bus of the
panelboard or isolated power system panel supplying the patient care area.

Summary
Each operating room shall be equipped with a minimum of thirty-six receptacles, at least twelve
of which shall be supplied from a normal circuit or a critical circuit connected to a different
transfer switch than the other receptacles at the same location.

T F At least twelve operating room receptacles must be connected to a normal circuit.

Answer
False. In lieu of one or more normal circuits, all operating room receptacles are permitted to be
connected to the critical branch, provided that at least twelve are supplied from a separate transfer
switch than the other receptacles at the same location.

Code Refresher
The requirement for hospital grade receptacles in general care and critical care areas is
not retroactive. They are required to be installed when receptacles are being replaced in
locations where the present Code mandates hospital grade receptacles, and where there is
a modification of building use or renovation of a health care facility.


517.19(C) Health Care Facilities
2014 NEC

More on Health Care Facilities

In addition to the NEC, some of the other standards that designers of health care facilities will
need to consult are NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code; NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code;
NFPA 101, Life Safety Code; and NFPA 110, Standard for Emergency and Standby Power
Systems. Important design information concerning classification of essential electrical systems can
be found in NFPA 99 and NFPA 110.

Hospital operating room
Receptacles on equipment are included in the
minimum 36 required receptacles.

517.30(G) Health Care Facilities
2014 NEC

Essential Electrical Systems for Hospitals Coordination

Significance
Selective coordination of overcurrent protective devices serving essential electrical systems in
hospitals is no longer required. Instead, coordination is required.

Analysis
Selective coordination involves the selection and application of overcurrent protective devices, for
the full range of overcurrents and opening times, such that only the upstream overcurrent device
closest to a fault or overload condition will open. This minimizes interruption of power and
localizes the outage.

Section 517.26 requires that the life safety branch meet the requirements of Article 700
Emergency Systems, except as amended by Article 517. Section 700.28 requires that emergency
system overcurrent devices be selectively coordinated with all supply side overcurrent protective
devices. Section 517.30(G) effectively amends this requirement.

As a result of the Task Group 2014 NEC/2012 NFPA 99 Correlation efforts, selective
coordination of overcurrent devices for hospital essential electrical systems has undergone a
significant change. Rather than a fully coordinated system, overcurrent protective devices serving
the essential electrical system shall be coordinated for the period of time that a faults duration
extends beyond 0.1 second. This coordination does not cover the full range of overcurrent
conditions. The 0.1 second at 60 Hz is equivalent to six cycles. Faster clearing times can be
accomplished, particularly with the use of fuses. This could be seen as a relaxation of standards,
since many systems have been successfully coordinated at 100% (total coordination). Total
coordination is synonymous with selective coordination. Other systems in the Code still require
selective coordination rather than coordination.

By exception, coordination is not required between transformer primary and secondary
overcurrent protective devices, where there is only one overcurrent device or set of overcurrent
protective devices on the transformer secondary. A second exception to the rule is where
overcurrent devices of the same ampere rating are connected in series.

In the 2014 NEC, the essential electrical system does not consist of an emergency system and an
equipment system. Instead, the essential electrical system consists of three branches: the life
safety branch, the critical branch, and the equipment branch (equipment system in the 2011 NEC).
The life safety branch and the critical branch are no longer referred to as components of an
emergency system. Since the equipment branch is part of the essential electrical system, this new
Code section requires coordination of the overcurrent protection for the equipment branch also.

Summary
Overcurrent protective devices serving the essential electrical system in hospitals shall be
coordinated for the period of time that a faults duration extends beyond 0.1 second.

T F The coordination of overcurrent protective devices required in this section is
applicable to essential circuits only when supplied by the emergency source.

517.30(G) Health Care Facilities
2014 NEC

Answer
False. Coordination between overcurrent protective devices must be accomplished for both the
normal and emergency power sources. The essential branches for which coordination is required
are supplied by both the normal and emergency sources.

ATS
N EM
Emergency source Normal source
X
In the event of an overcurrent,
only the OCPD immediately
upstream opens in a coordinated
system.
Location of overcurrent event
For essential electrical systems in hospitals,
coordination of overcurrent protective devices is required
after 0.1 second of the onset of an overcurrent.
Note that the system must be
coordinated for both the normal
and emergency sources.

Code Refresher
517.17 Where a second level of ground-fault protection of equipment (GFPE) is applied
as required in 517.17(B), theselectivity required by 517.17(C) must be considered in the
overall coordination of overcurrent protective devices for essential electrical systems. The
GFPE coordination must be fully selective. The requirement for the next level of GFPE
protection is not based on the feeder circuit rating, since the function of the device is to
provide selectivity between the feeder and service overcurrent protective devices.


547.5(F) Agricultural Buildings 555.15(B) Marinas and Boatyards

2014 NEC

547.5(F) Wiring Methods Separate Equipment Grounding Conductor
555.15(B) Grounding Type of Equipment Grounding Conductor

Significance
The long-standing prohibition against aluminum equipment grounding conductors for wiring in
and about agricultural buildings and marinas and boatyards has been lifted.

Analysis
The requirement for a copper equipment grounding conductor (EGC) for wiring in and about
agricultural buildings first appeared in the 1987 NEC. The intent was to improve the longevity of
EGCs in the harsh, corrosive, and often wet locations associated with many agricultural buildings.
Metal raceways were not permitted to serve as the required EGC. Interestingly, in Section 310.14
of the same Code edition, the NEC first required aluminum conductors to be constructed of an
AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy. Along with improved testing of termination
equipment for aluminum conductors, the modified properties of aluminum building wire have
enabled good performance of aluminum wiring in agricultural settings. Analysis of the
conductors exposure to common corrosive gases found in agricultural settings has shown that
aluminum conductors generally perform well and are suitable for these environments.

Both copper and aluminum equipment grounding conductors are permitted for agricultural buildings and marinas.

Article 555 covers wiring and equipment in and about public and private facilities for docking,
repair, storage, and fueling of small watercraft (not exceeding 300 tons). Private facilities
associated with a single-family dwelling are not within the scope of this article. For about a half
century, copper EGCs have been required for circuits in and about marinas and boatyards.
However, decades of aluminum wire use for phase and neutral conductors, exposed to the
corrosive conditions associated with these locations, has shown satisfactory operation in both
fresh and salt water environments. An aluminum conductor exposed to air will become coated
with a nonconductive film of aluminum oxide that will serve to slow or inhibit corrosion.
Terminations are important, particularly where cables are attached to floating (movable) piers.

Summary
Aluminum EGCs are now permitted for wiring in and about agricultural buildings and marinas
and boatyards. Where installed underground in agricultural locations, the EGC shall be insulated
or covered. In marinas and boatyards, the EGC shall be insulated.

Application Question: Are aluminum or other metal raceways now permitted as EGCs?

Answer: No. For Article 547 and Article 555 locations, wire-type EGCs are required.
Note: Aluminum
EGCs shall not be
terminated within 18
of the earth
[250.120(B)].

551.71 Recreational Vehicles and Recreational Vehicle Parks
2014 NEC

Part VI. Recreational Vehicle Parks Type Receptacles Provided

Significance
Additional 30-ampere, 125-volt receptacles at recreational vehicle sites are now required. This
change will enhance safety by reducing the use of adapter cords.

Analysis
Existing Code requires at least 20% of electrified sites to be equipped with a 50-ampere, 125/250-
volt receptacle. The 2014 NEC requires that these 50-A sites also be equipped with a 30-ampere,
125-volt receptacle. The revised receptacle provisions/distribution can be summarized as follows:

All sites with electric power shall be equipped with at least one 20-A, 125-V receptacle.
At least 70% of sites with electric power shall be equipped with a 20-A, 125-V receptacle
and a 30-A, 125-V receptacle.
At least 20% of sites with electric power shall be equipped with a 20-A, 125-V receptacle;
a 30-A, 125-V receptacle; and a 50-A, 125/250-V receptacle.
Any electrified site may provide additional receptacles of any of the three types specified.
Tent sites with 15- or 20-A receptacles need not be included in the percentage distribution.

The recreational vehicle (RV) power panel below meets the requirements for the minimum 20%
of sites equipped with 30- and 50-A receptaclesand the requirements for any site. Note the
30-A, 125-V configuration is a specific purpose configuration for travel trailers (NEMA TT-30R).

Summary
Every RV site equipped with a 50-A, 125/250-V
receptacle shall also provide a 30-A, 125-V receptacle.

Plans for a new RV park include 25 dedicated tent
sites, 10 sites with a 20-A, 125-V receptacle. There
will be 100 additional RV sites, 90 of which will be
electrified. What are the minimum requirements in
terms of receptacle types at the sites?

Answer
The dedicated tent sites are not considered in the
percentage distribution of receptacle types. All 90
electrified sites shall have a 20-A, 125-V receptacle. At least 18 sites shall be provided with a
20-A and a 30-A 125-V receptacle, along with a 50-A, 125/250-V receptacle. At least 63 sites
shall be provided with a 20-A and a 30-A, 125-volt receptacle. These 63 sites may or may not also
provide a 50-A receptacle. So, only 45 more sites equipped with 30-A are required (63 18 =45).

Code Refresher
551.73 Electrical service and feeder loads shall be based on 9600 VA per site equipped
with a 50-A receptacle, 3600 VA for sites with both 20- and 30-A receptacles, and 2400
VA for sites with only a 20-A receptacle. The load for tent sites equipped with only a
20-A receptacle shall be 600 VA/site. The demand factors in Table 551.73(A) shall apply.
551.73(D) The minimum ampacity for feeder conductors for RV sites is 30 A.

590.4(I) and (J) Temporary Installations

2014 NEC

General Termination(s) at Devices Support

Significance
This change seeks to align with OSHA regulations. It will afford a greater level of safety in the
construction environment where temporary electrical power is used.

Analysis
It is not uncommon to find feeder and branch-circuit cables on the ground or on the floor at
constructions sites. These environments are often wet. Cables on walking surfaces pose a tripping
hazard and are not afforded suitable protection from damage. Language added to 590.4(J ) states
that cable assemblies and flexible cords and cables installed as branch circuits or feeders shall not
be installed on the floor or on the ground. Extensions cords are exempt from this requirement,
since these cords are designed and suitable for this purpose. GFCI protection is provided where
extension cords are used.

A separate change in subsection (I) pertains to flexible cords and cables entering enclosures
containing devices that require termination. The cords and cables shall be secured to boxes with
fittings listed for connecting flexible cords and cables to boxes. The previous language was
fittings designed for the purpose, which is essentially the definition of identified. A listed fitting
will provide a higher degree of suitability. This will help to prevent any connector that will fit
on a cable from being used. The connector/fitting should keep the cable secured and protected.
This will keep terminations tight and reduce the possibility of having exposed conductors or short
circuits caused by damaged conductors.

Temporary Power Distribution System OSHA-Approved Lighting String Feeder and branch-circuit cables used for
Courtesy of Hubbell Incorporated Courtesy of Precision Lighting temporary wiring are not permitted on
Hubbell Wiring Device Kellems floors or on the ground.

Summary
For temporary wiring installations, cable assemblies and flexible cords and cables installed as
branch circuits or feeders shall not be installed on the floor or on the ground. Flexible cords and
cables entering enclosures containing devices that require termination shall be secured to the
boxes with fittings listed for connecting flexible cords and cables to boxes.

Is a remodeling project where temporary wiring is used subject to the rules in Article 590?

Answer
Yes. This article applies to temporary electrical installations used during the period of
construction, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition of buildings, structures, equipment,
or similar activities.

600.6(A)(1) Electric Signs and Outline Lighting
2014 NEC

Disconnects Location At Point of Entry to a Sign Enclosure

Significance
This change will reduce the risk of persons contacting energized conductors within a sign.

Analysis
As with the existing Code, the 2014 NEC permits the disconnecting means for a sign (or outline
lighting) to be at the sign, within sight of the sign, or out of sight of the sign if lockable in the off
position. Some signs have the disconnecting means mounted on the sign enclosure or support
pole. Where the disconnecting means is at the sign, a new subsection requires the disconnect to be
located at the point where the supply circuit(s) enters the sign enclosure or pole. Conductors on
the line side of the disconnecting means are not permitted to enter the sign enclosure or pole to
run to an internal disconnect switch or to an externally operable switch. An exception allows
circuit conductors to pass through a sign without complying with the disconnect requirement,
where the circuit conductors are enclosed in a Chapter 3 listed raceway.

This rule applies to all types of electric sign and outline lighting installations (conductors,
equipment, and field wiring) within the scope of Article 600. Article 600 covers the use of
traditional lighting sources, neon tubing, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The rule applies to
signs installed on buildings, poles, and other structures, and includes portable signs.

Office Supply

- -

Fashion Mart

Energized conductors are not
permitted to enter a sign enclosure
or pole. Energized conductors are
permitted to pass through a sign,
where the circuit conductors are
enclosed in a Ch. 3 listed raceway.
Circuit breaker(s) as
disconnecting means
Feeder or branch
circuit(s)
Disconnecting
means must comply
with 110.25.
Disconnect is permitted to
be out of sight of sign if
capable of being locked
open.
Papers, etc.
Books R Us

Summary
Where a sign disconnecting means is at the sign, the disconnect shall be located at the point where
the feeder or branch circuit(s) enters the sign enclosure or pole and shall disconnect all wiring
where it enters the enclosure of the sign or pole. A disconnect at the point conductors enter a sign
is not required for conductors enclosed in a Chapter 3 listed raceway that passes through the sign.

Application Question: Are the supply conductors for a sign permitted to emerge from the
ground inside of the sign pole?

Answer: This is permissible only where the required disconnect is located other than at the sign.

ARTICLE 646 Modular Data Centers
2014 NEC

Modular Data Centers

Significance
Existing Article 645 Information Technology Equipment is not applicable to equipment that
does not meet all of the conditions listed in 645.4. Generally, Modular Data Centers (MDCs) are
factory wired. The unique construction and broad range of sizes and types of MDCs requires clear
direction for the application of existing Code rules and new requirements for safe electrical
installation of MDCs.

Analysis
Many MDCs are not considered ITE rooms, which, among other reasons, set these data centers
outside the scope of Article 645. Modular Data Centers, sometimes referred to as Containerized
Data Centers, are prefabricated equipment enclosures or structures that contain information
technology equipment (ITE) and related power, UPS (uninterruptible power supply) systems,
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems, monitoring equipment, etc. All
equipment can be located within the same module or related equipment may be located in an
adjacent separate module or structure. MDCs are intended for fixed installation either indoors or
outdoors.

An approved disconnecting means in accordance with 645.10 is required for disconnection of the
IT equipment. A similar approved disconnecting means is required to disconnect HVAC
equipment serving the MDC, which shall also cause all required fire/smoke dampers to close. For
MDCs that are listed and labeled, only compliance with Sections 646.5 through 646.9 is required,
in addition to the requirement for disconnecting means (see 646.4). Otherwise, all provisions of
the article must be complied with, including specific requirements for illumination, emergency
illumination, receptacles, work space, egress, and other requirements.

Much of the article directs the Code user to applicable sections of existing articles for application
in MDCs. Flexible power cords are not permitted for connection to external power sources but
may be used for connection between modules. Generally, working space requirements must be in
accordance with 110.27 (110.26 in the 2011 NEC), with some less restrictive rules for working
space about IT equipment where the voltage of live parts exposed for servicing is limited to 30
volts rms or 60 volts dc.

Summary
New Article 646 Modular Data Centers contains requirements for prefabricated structures or
enclosures that house IT equipment and related systems such as power, back-up power, HVAC,
and others. The article contains specific new requirements and directs Code uses to applicable
existing requirements in other articles.

T F The portability of MDCs requires that flexible power cables be used for service or
feeder conductors to supply MDCs from external power sources.


ARTICLE 646 Modular Data Centers
2014 NEC

Answer
False. Flexible power cables are not permitted for this use. However, where not subject to
physical damage, extra-hard usage cords may be run between MDC enclosures, e.g., from an ITE
enclosure to an adjacent enclosure housing HVAC equipment for the ITE. MDCs are intended for
fixed installation rather than as portable equipment.

Indoor MDC

Courtesy of Mainline Computer Products, Inc.

Cut view of portable data center inside
shipping container

20 x 8 shipping container
7 racks (6 racks with a total of 240
rack units available for servers)
Courtesy of Sun Microsystems, Inc.
and Data Center Professionals.net

Electric service for outdoor (container) MDC

Courtesy of Sun Microsystems, Inc.
and PRWeb


680.22(B)(6) Swimming Pools, Fountains, and Similar Installations
2014 NEC

Part II. Permanently Installed Pools Lighting, Receptacles, and Equipment
Luminaires, Lighting Outlets, and Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fans Low-
Voltage Luminaires

Significance
This new subsection permits qualifying low-voltage luminaires (e.g., site lighting) to be installed
around pools less than 5 ft from the inside walls of the pool.

Analysis
In previous Codes, no luminaire could be installed within 5 ft horizontally of the inside walls of a
pool unless the luminaire was located significantly above the surface of the maximum water level
(5 ft to 12 ft above the water level, depending on the installation). Article 411 lighting systems
(30 volts maximum or connected to a Class 2 power source) could not be installed within 10 ft of
pools, unless permitted by Article 680 [see 411.4(B)]. The low voltage contact limit introduced in
the 2011 NEC in 680.2 is key to this new permission. The contact limit replaced the long standing
15-volt AC threshold because of the need to address new technology luminaires operating on DC
and nonsinusoidal wave forms. The AC and DC voltage limits establish a safe voltage level for
circuit operation. Qualifying luminaires must have a voltage rating in accordance with the low
voltage contact limit in 680.2 and be supplied from a power source meeting the isolation
requirements for swimming pool lighting in 680.23(A)(2). Low-voltage landscape lighting power
units complying with UL 1838 that are marked For Use with Submersible Fixtures meet the
isolation requirements in 680.23(A)(2) and comply with the low voltage contact limit.

Summary
Listed low-voltage luminaires not
requiring grounding and not
exceeding the low-voltage contact
limit shall be permitted to be
located less than 5 ft from the inside
walls of a pool. The luminaires shall
be supplied by a listed transformer
or power supply of the isolated
winding type or that incorporates a
system of double insulation between
the primary and secondary windings
in accordance with 680.23(A)(2).

Qualifying low-voltage lighting is permitted to be located within 5 ft of the inside walls of a pool.

Application Question: What is the low voltage contact limit set forth in 680.2?

Answer: A voltage not exceeding the following values:
(1) 15 volts (RMS) for sinusoidal ac
(2) 21.2 volts peak for nonsinusoidal ac
(3) 30 volts for continuous dc
(4) 12.4 volts peak for dc that is interrupted at a rate of 10 to 200 Hz

680.42(B) and (C) Swimming Pools, Fountains, and Similar Installations
2014 NEC

Part IV. Spas and Hot Tubs Outdoor Installations (B) Bonding (C) Interior Wiring to
Outdoor Installations

Significance
This change appropriately exempts certain outdoor spas and hot tubs from the perimeter bonding
requirement. The change began as a Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA 11-1) to the 2011 NEC
issued by the Standards Council on March 1, 2011 with an effective date of March 21, 2011.

Analysis
A TIA is tentative because it has not been processed through the entire standards-making process.
It is interim because it is only effective until the next edition of the Code (2014). It automatically
becomes a proposal for the 2014 NEC. The interim amendment exempted outdoor installations of
listed self-contained hot tubs and spas from the requirement for equipotential bonding of
perimeter surfaces in 680.26(B)(2), provided the installation met certain requirements. The
amendment has been revised and accepted into the 2014 NEC. Equipotential bonding of perimeter
surfaces shall not be required where all of the following conditions apply:

(1) The spa or hot tub shall be listed as a self-contained spa for aboveground use.
(2) The spa or hot tub shall not be identified as suitable only for indoor use.
(3) The installation shall be located on or above grade and comply with the manufacturers
instructions.
(4) The top rim of the spa or hot tub shall be at least 28 in. above all perimeter surfaces that
are within 30 in. horizontally from the spa or hot tub. The height of nonconductive
external steps for access to the spa or tub shall not affect the rim height measurement.

The revision will provide relief for homeowners and guidance for contactors and inspectors where
a spa or hot tub is intended to be installed at an outdoor location, such as on a stone patio or other
finished surface, where it is not feasible to install perimeter bonding. The change recognizes the
different safety needs of permanently installed, custom in-ground spas or hot tubs and listed self-
contained portable units. This is in harmony with existing Code that exempts storable pools and
listed self-contained spas or hot tubs installed indoors from the perimeter bonding requirement.

Summary
Perimeter equipotential
bonding is not required
for self-contained spas or
hot tubs that are
indoor/outdoor rated and
listed according to UL
1563 standards.

Outdoor installations of self-contained spas or hot tubs where perimeter bonding is not required for listed units

Also, 680.42(C) now permits any Chapter 3 wiring method (with a min. 12 AWG copper EGC
that is insulated or within an overall jacket) to be used in the interior of any dwelling unit or
associated building for the supply to an outdoor spa or hot tub. Previously, this was only permitted
for one-family dwellings. Specific wiring methods are still required for underwater luminaires.

Application Question: Is equipot. bonding of perimeter surfaces required for in-ground spas?
Answer: Yes. An in-ground spa does not meet the conditions in 680.42(B).

690.12 and 690.56(C) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
2014 NEC

Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems on Buildings

Significance
Provisions are now required for the rapid shutdown of PV circuits for the safety of first
responders/firefighters.

Analysis
The Code seeks to establish safe circuits (controlled conductors that are touch safe) for the
portion of conductors more than 10 ft from a PV array and for conductors that are more than 5 ft
in length installed inside of buildings and associated with PV systems. This applies to all PV
output conductors, inverter inputs, inverter outputs, and energy storage (battery) circuits. The
controlled conductors shall be limited to not more than 30 volts and 240 volt-amperes within 10
seconds of rapid shutdown initiation. The 10 seconds will allow dc-side capacitor banks to
discharge by means other than contactors and shunt-trip devices. The rapid shutdown
equipment/hardware shall be listed and identified as suitable for the purpose.

Voltage and power shall be measured between any two conductors and between any conductor
and ground. The rapid shutdown initiation methods shall be labeled in accordance with 690.56(B),
which requires a permanent plaque or directory showing the location of the service disconnect and
the PV system disconnect if not installed at the same location. Ideally, the service disconnect and
the required PV system disconnect would be located outdoors adjacent to one another.

Combiner
box
Rooftop PV modules
Outdoor controlled conductors
Controlled
conductors
10 ft max.
Rapid shutdown
equipment
10 ft max. Zone of energized
conductors (more than
30 V and 240 VA)
More than 5 ft
Building wall
Indoor PV conductors, including
battery conductors, more than 5 ft
in length must be controlled
conductors.
DC
AC
PV inverter input
controlled conductors
Inverter
Inverter output
controlled conductors
10 ft max.

This new NEC section does not contain prescriptive requirements. Existing section 690.13
requires the PV disconnecting means to be installed at a readily accessible location on the outside
of a building or inside nearest the point of entrance of the system conductors. The diagram below
shows the required PV system disconnect adjacent to the service disconnect.

Some methods of accomplishing the emergency shutdown currently exist and other solutions will
evolve within the solar industry. Modules with micro-inverters are an easy solution, since
modules will shut down on loss of utility power. For systems that use an inverter for a string or
array, loss of utility power will shut down the inverter output, but source circuits will remain

690.12 and 690.56(C) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
2014 NEC

energized. The required readily accessible PV system disconnect will not shut down dc output
circuits on roofs; rather, the modules will continue to generate power during daylight hours.
Power optimizers could be used on each module and would limit module output to 1 volt upon
loss of a signal from the inverter. Also, tenKsolars RAIS
Wave system can electronically

control output at the module level when a disconnect is opened.

New section 690.56(C) requires that buildings with both a utility service and a PV system have a
permanent plaque or directory including the following wording:
PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM EQUIPPED WITH RAPID SHUTDOWN.
The plaque or directory shall be reflective, with all letters capitalized and a minimum of 3/8 in.
high, in white on red background.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM
EQUIPPED WITH RAPID
SHUTDOWN
Signal over power
conductors

Service
Disconnect
Photovoltaic
System
Disconnect
PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM
EQUIPPED WITH RAPID
SHUTDOWN
Plaque or directory shall be
reflective, with all letters
capitalized and having a
minimum height of 3/8, in
white on red background.
Roof
Rapid shutdown
equipment using
control signal

Summary
Rapid shutdown of PV circuits is required for the portion of conductors more than 10 ft from a PV
array and for conductors that are more than 5 ft in length installed inside of buildings and
associated with PV systems. This applies to all PV output conductors, inverter inputs, inverter
outputs, and energy storage (battery) circuits. The controlled conductors shall be limited to not
more than 30 volts and 240 volt-amperes within 10 seconds of rapid shutdown initiation. The
rapid shutdown equipment/hardware shall be listed and identified as suitable for the purpose.

T F PV system conductors within a building must be controlled conductors via rapid shutdown
equipment if the conductors are longer than 5 ft from the point where the conductors
penetrate the exterior wall.

Answer
True. However, the point of penetration of the outside wall is not significant. All indoor PV
system related conductors more than 5 ft in length must be controlled conductors. This includes
PV related conductors originating and terminating within the building, e.g., battery conductors.

Article 694 Small Wind Electric Systems
2014 NEC

Wind Electric Systems

Significance
The scope of Article 694 has changed and a new section has been added containing requirements
for turbine shutdown.

Analysis
Article 694, Small Wind Electric Systems, was introduced in the 2011 NEC and contained
installation requirements for wind generators up to and including 100 kW. This article now covers
wind generators of any size that are within the scope of the NEC in 90.2, hence the change in the
title of the article.

New Section 694.23 requires wind turbines to have a readily accessible manual shutdown button
or switch. Operation of the switch shall result in a parked turbine state that shall either stop the
turbine rotor or allow limited rotor speed combined with a means to de-energize the turbine
output. A manual shutdown button or switch is not required for turbines with a swept area of less
than 538 ft
2
. The shutdown procedure shall be defined and posted at the location of a shutdown
means and at the location of the turbine controller or disconnect, if the location is different.

All 125-V, 15- or 20-A receptacles installed for
maintenance of a wind turbine are required to have
5-mA GFCI protection. Outdoor receptacles already
require GFCI protection by 210.8(B), but this
requirement will cover receptacles in towers and
accessory buildings related to wind generators.

A turbine support pole or tower is permitted to be
used as a raceway if evaluated as part of the listing of
the wind turbine or otherwise listed or evaluated for
Portion of foundation, and structure grounding for a the purpose.
3 MW wind turbine
Summary
Article 694 now covers all wind generators within
the scope of the NECno longer limited to 100 kW
or smaller. Provisions for manual shutdown are now
required.

A privately owned wind farm consisting of 1.6 MW
turbines connects to the grid and sells energy to
electric utilities. Is the installation covered by the
NEC?
View of climbing tower inside a 3 MWwind turbine structure

Answer
The field wiring for the turbines/structures, and perhaps the substation, is within the jurisdiction of
the NEC. There will be an agreed to point of demarcation where the utility jurisdiction begins.

700.8 Emergency Systems
2014 NEC

Surge Protection

Significance
Implementation of this rule could prevent damage to emergency power controls and critical
electronic loads, thereby enhancing the reliability of emergency systems.

Analysis
This new section applies to emergency systems, which are legally required systems that
automatically supply power to designated loads upon loss of normal power. The rule requires a
listed surge-protective device (SPD) to be installed in or on all switchboards and panelboards
supplying emergency systems. The intent of this rule is to enhance the reliability of emergency
systems by mitigating potential damage from surges to electronic control and communications
systems and sensitive loads. SPDs are currently required for power sources of Critical Operations
Power Systems (COPS) in 708.20(D).

Photo shows SPD mounted directly to the panelboards busbars.

SPD Series, Courtesy of Eaton Corporation
www.eaton.com/consultants

Section 700.8 does not specify the level of protection required, but
guidelines for protection are available through several sources.
One source is ANSI/IEEE C62.41, IEEE Recommended Practice for
Surge Voltages in Low-Voltage AC Power Circuits.The consulting
and specifying engineering community through the American Institute
of Architects (AIA) has produced a MasterSpec document related to
SPDs for low-voltage electrical power circuits. It references a
protection level of 250 kA at service entrance locations. Section 4.18
of NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection
Systems, contains prescriptive requirements for surge protection systems installed for electrical
and communications systems, including protection levels. According to Section 4.18.3.1.2 of
NFPA 780, SPDs at the service entrance shall have an I
max
rating of at least 40 kA 8/20 s per
phase or a nominal discharge current (I
n
) rating of at least 20 kA 8/20 s per phase for the
protection of electrical power circuits. The 8/20 s terminology is a reference to the Combination
Wave generator described in IEEE C62.41.2 used to simulate lightning induced transient activity.
The combination wave is characterized by short duration, high-frequency 8-by-20 s (maximum
current in 8 s and 50% of maximum after 20 s) current and 1.2-by-50 s voltage waveforms.

Summary
A listed SPD shall be installed in or on all emergency systems switchboards and panelboards.

What Type of SPD is required for protection?

Answer
Section 700.8 does not specify the Type or level of protection. Consult Article 285, Surge-
Protective Devices (SPDs), 1000 Volts or Less, for requirements on the use and installation of
SPDs. The article contains rules for Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4 SPDs, based on UL
1449.

700.16 Emergency Systems
2014 NEC

Part IV. Emergency System Circuits for Lighting and Power Emergency Illumination

Significance
Emergency illumination is now required in certain electrical rooms.

Analysis
Emergency systems are installed where electrical systems are essential for the safety of human
life. They are required in certain occupancies to illuminate means of egress or critical task areas
and to supply power for life-support equipment, critical alarm systems, fire pumps, elevators, etc.
Emergency systems are installed in high occupant load buildings such as places of assembly,
shopping malls, institutional facilities, and where life-support equipment is used such as in
hospitals. Where an emergency system is installed, emergency illumination must be provided in
the area of the disconnecting means required in 225.31 (a main disconnect in a separate building
supplied by a feeder or branch circuit) and 230.70 (a service disconnect). The rule is applicable
where the service disconnect or main disconnecting means is installed indoors. The purpose of the
change is to enhance the safety of persons working on electrical equipment and to aid first
responders in disconnecting building power. Unit equipment (rechargeable battery and lamps) is
limited to the supply of power for illumination, including back-up power for exit lighting. The
Code does not appear to consider unit equipment a system. Section 700.12 states that ...The
supply system for emergency purposes...shall be one or more of the types of systems described in
700.12(A) through (E). Unit equipment is addressed in 700.12(F). Frequently, unit equipment
supplies the entire emergency load. The AHJ will determine where this requirement is applicable.

EM EM

Emergency lighting symbols

Electrical service equipment room

Summary
Where an emergency system is installed,
emergency illumination must be provided in the
area of the disconnecting means required in
225.31 (a main disconnect in a separate building supplied by a feeder or branch circuit) and
230.70 (a service disconnect). The rule is applicable where the service disconnect or main
disconnecting means is installed indoors.

Does the requirement apply to each of multiple electrical rooms in a large facility?

Answer
No. The rule only applies to the electrical room where the service (or main) disconnect for the
normal supply is located.

ARTICLE 728 Fire-Resistive Cable Systems
2014 NEC

Fire-Resistive Cable Systems

Significance
This new article provides details for the installation of fire-resistive cable systems. Proper
installation of these systems is necessary to ensure continued operation of critical circuits during a
fire.

Analysis
Article 728 covers the installation of fire-resistive conductors and cables (e.g., circuit integrity
[CI] cable) and other components of fire-resistive cable systems. The purpose of the new rules is
to enhance the survivability of critical circuits to ensure continued operation for a specified period
of time under specified fire conditions. Fire-resistive cable systems are part of Electrical Circuit
Protective Systems, UL Category FHIT.

The components of fire-resistive cable systems are tested and listed as a system and shall not be
interchangeable between systems. Installation of these systems is very detailed and must follow
the instructions provided in the listing as well as applicable NEC provisions. Installation
requirements in this article and in the listing apply to systems installed outside the fire-rated
rooms that they serve, such as electrical or fire pump rooms. Fire-resistive cable systems shall be
secured to the structure in accordance with the listing and manufacturers installation instructions.
The fire rating of the wall or ceiling on which the system is installed shall be equal to or greater
than the fire rating of the system. Where a fire-resistive system is listed for installation in a
raceway, the raceway, couplings, and connectors must be listed as part of the fire-resistive system.
Pulling lubricants used in the installation of fire-resistive cables within raceways shall be listed for
the system. Unless specifically stated in the design, all components of Electrical Circuit Protective
Systems (UL Category FHIT) such as raceways, couplings, connectors, boxes, conduit bodies, etc.
that come in contact with fire- resistive cables shall have an interior coating free of zinc.

Support for fire-resistive cable systems is important to the survivability of the systems and is more
robust than NEC support requirements for other wiring methods. Fire-resistive systems shall be
supported in accordance with the listing and manufacturers installation instructions.

If an equipment grounding conductor is required within a raceway system, it shall consist of the
same fire-rated cable described in the system, unless alternative equipment grounding conductors
are listed for use with the system. An alternative equipment grounding conductor shall be marked
with the system number. System cables and conductors shall bemarked with the suffix FRR
(Fire-Resistive Rating), along with the circuit integrity duration in hours and the system identifier.

Summary
New Article 728 Fire-Resistive Cable Systems contains detailed requirements for installation of
fire-resistive cable systems. Its purpose is to enhance the survivability of critical circuits to ensure
continued operation for a specified period of time under fire conditions. The components of fire-
resistive cable systems are tested and listed as a system and shall not be interchangeable between
systems.

ARTICLE 728 Fire-Resistive Cable Systems
2014 NEC

The systems must be installed in accordance with this Code and all instructions included in the
listing. Robust securing and supporting of fire-resistive cable systems shall be in accordance with
the listing and manufacturers instructions. Fire-resistive cable systems are part of Electrical
Circuit Protective Systems, UL Category FHIT.

X

m
a
x
.
1 steel channel secured to fire-
rated structure with approved
fasteners, or other securing
method listed for the system
Concrete or masonry surface
Approved clamps
Support fire-resistive cable systems
according to the listing and
manufacturers installation instructions.
Fire-resistive cable in rigid
steel conduit or other
raceway listed as a
component of the system
Electrical Circuit Integrity System
System No. XXXX Fire Rating X Hr.
(constructed with fire-resistive cable)
Note: Systems may be listed for
mounting on other than
concrete or masonry.

T F Rigid steel conduit is the only acceptable raceway for use as a component of a fire-
resistive cable system.

Answer
False. Generally, raceways of a listed system are rigid steel. However, other conduit or raceways
might be listed as part of the system. Remember that all components of a system must be listed as
part of that system and be installed according to the listing and manufacturers instructions. The
steel channel and rigid steel conduit in the drawing above must be listed as components of the
electrical circuit integrity system.

ARTICLE 750 Energy Management Systems
2014 NEC

Energy Management Systems

Significance
With widespread use of energy management systems (EMS) for monitoring and controlling loads,
it is important that the NEC restrict automatic control of loads where shutdown could cause
personal injury, or property damage or loss.

Analysis
Smart Grid and other load monitoring and control technologies are increasingly being used to
improve energy efficiency, reliability, and economics of electricity use. The purpose of new
Article 750 Energy Management Systems is to restrict the use of automatic control of loads
where injury could result, e.g., stopping a fan that is exhausting air from a hazardous (classified)
area, or shutting down a moving walkway while in use.

Load shedding is already permitted in existing Code language for ensuring reliable operation of
fire pumps and emergency systems, Articles 695 and 700 respectively. New Section 750.20
prohibits an energy management system from overriding any control necessary for ensuring
continuity of alternate power sources for fire pumps, health care facilities, emergency systems,
legally required standby systems, and critical operations power systems (COPS). Section 750.30
further restricts operations of energy management systems as follows:

(A) Load Shedding Controls. An energy management system shall not override load shedding
controls that ensure the minimum electrical capacity for:
(1) Fire pumps
(2) Emergency Systems
(3) Legally required standby systems
(4) Critical operations power systems (COPS)

(B) Disconnection of Power. An energy management system shall not be permitted to cause
disconnection of power to:
(1) Elevators, escalators, moving walks, or stairway lift chairs
(2) Positive mechanical ventilation for hazardous (classified) locations
(3) Ventilation used to exhaust hazardous gas or reclassify an area
(4) Circuits supplying emergency lighting
(5) Essential electrical systems in health care facilities

(C) Capacity of Branch Circuit, Feeder, or Service. An energy management system shall not
cause a branch circuit, feeder, or service to be overloaded at any time.

When an energy management system is used to control power through a remote means, a
directory identifying the controlled device(s) or circuit(s) shall be posted on the enclosure of the
controller, disconnect, or branch circuit overcurrent device.


ARTICLE 750 Energy Management Systems
2014 NEC

Summary
Article 750 Energy Management Systems contains rules that prohibit energy management
systems from overriding load shedding controls that are in place to ensure minimum capacity
requirements for fire pumps, emergency systems, and other required standby and critical power
systems. An EMS shall not be permitted to disconnect power to circuits supplying emergency
lighting, essential electrical systems in health care facilities, ventilation exhausting hazardous gas,
or power to elevators, moving walks and similar equipment. An EMS may not cause any service,
feeder, or branch circuit to become overloaded. Also, an EMS is prohibited from overriding any
control necessary for ensuring continuity of alternate power sources for critical loads.

Is an energy management system permitted to monitor and control indoor temperature, ventilation
fan speeds, and lighting levels and modes for general lighting at multiple campuses of a university
system?

Answer
Yes. This is an application of SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition), computer
monitoring and controlling of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and
energy consumption. None of these functions is restricted by Article 750, assuming no hazards are
introduced.

770.110 Optical Fiber Cables and Raceways
2014 NEC

Part V. Installation Methods Within Buildings Raceways and Cable Routing
Assemblies for Optical Fiber Cables

Significance
Additional rules for the installation of Cable Routing Assemblies have been included in the 2014
NEC.

Analysis
Cable Routing Assemblies are widely used for cable support/management in data centers. They
are commonly used for optical fiber, data, and communications cables. The definition for cable
routing assembly has been relocated from 770.2 to Article 100, since the term is used in more than
one Code article. Use of theses assemblies has been expanded to include Class 2 and Class 3
circuit cables in Article 725, and power-limited fire alarm (PLFA) cables in Article 760. Its
definition has been revised to reflect the extended application. A Cable Routing Assembly is a
single channel or connected multiple channels, as well as associated fittings, forming a structural
system used to support and route communications cables, optical fiber cables, data cables
associated with information technology and communications equipment, Class 2 and Class 3
cables, and power-limited fire alarm cables.

Subsections 770.110(C)(1) and (2) contain requirements for horizontal and vertical support for
cable routing assemblies. Generally, horizontal support is required at intervals not exceeding 3 ft;
vertical support is required at intervals not exceeding 4 ft. See also .110(C) in 800, 820, and 830.

Listing requirements have been included in the new Code for plenum cable routing assemblies in
800.182(A). New Table 800.154(c) matches the application of listed cable routing assemblies in
buildings with the cable routing assembly type: plenum, riser, and general-purpose.

Courtesy of Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
Fiber Raceway Systemis UL 2024A listed for riser-rated
telecommunications applications.

Summary
Cable routing assemblies are permitted to be
used to support and route communications
cables, optical fiber cables, data cables
associated with information technology and
communications equipment, Class 2 and Class
3 cables, and power-limited fire alarm cables. New Table 800.154(c) matches the application of
cable routing assemblies in buildings with the cable routing assembly type: plenum, riser, and
general-purpose. Installations must comply with horizontal and vertical support requirements.

Does the NEC consider a cable routing assembly a raceway?

Answer
A raceway is an enclosed channel of metallic or nonmetallic material designed for holding wires,
cables, or busbars. Cable routing assemblies that are enclosed could be considered raceways.

Article 800 Communications Circuits
2014 NEC

Article 800 Communications Circuits

Significance
There are several changes to Article 800 that are important for those who work with low-energy
circuits. Other changes within this article have been addressed in the analysis of other sections in
this book.

Communications raceways as innerduct

Courtesy of Innerduct.com

800.12 Innerduct. Definition: A nonmetallic raceway placed within a
larger raceway.
Listed plenum communications raceway, riser communications
raceway, and general-purpose communications raceway are permitted to
be installed as innerduct in any type of listed raceway permitted in Chapter 3. The
communications raceway shall be selected in accordance with the provisions of Table 800.154(b).

Communications Raceways
Signaling raceways and optical fiber raceways are no longer mentioned in the NEC, as these
raceways are now communications raceways. Applications of communications raceways in
buildings is located in Table 800.154(b). The table lists the applications that are permitted for
each of the raceway types: plenum communications raceway, riser communications raceway,
and general-purpose communications raceway. This change is reflected in the revised definition
of communications raceway, relocated to Article 100.

Signaling Raceway, Art. 725
Communications Raceway, Art. 800
Optical Fiber Raceway, Art. 770 Communications Raceway, Table 800.154(b)
2014 NEC

800.179(G) Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable or Electrical Circuit Protective Systems
Cables that are used for survivability of critical circuits under fire conductions can be tested and
listed as CI cable or they can be tested as part of an electrical circuit protective system (UL
Category FHIT) as outlined in new Article 728. Circuit integrity (CI) cables shall only be installed
in free air. Fire-resistive cables that are a part of an electrical circuit protective system shall be
identified with the protective system number on the product and installed in accordance with the
listing of the protective system. A similar change has been made in Article 725.179(F) and Article
760.179(G).

Type FPLR-CI (Power-limited fire alarm riser cable Circuit Integrity)

For use without conduit in fire alarm systems

Courtesy of Draka Cableteq USA


Informative Annex J ADA Standards for Accessible Design
2014 NEC

Informative Annex J ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Significance
Selected provisions of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design are included in new
Informative Annex J to assist Code users in considering electrical design constraints in buildings
required to comply with the ADA Standard.

Analysis
The 2010 ADA Standards set minimum requirements for newly designed and constructed or
altered State and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities to
be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. Annex J includes provisions
from Section 307, Protruding Objects (protruding into the circulation path), and Section 308,
Reach Ranges. For placement of switches, receptacles, and other operable parts, consult Section
309 of the Standard, Operable Parts.

According to Section 309.3 Height, operable parts shall be placed within
one or more of the reach ranges specified in 308. Where forward reach is
unobstructed, high forward reach shall be 48 in. maximum and low forward
reach shall be 15 in. minimum above finish floor or ground. Where the high
forward reach is obstructed by an intrusion of more than 20 in., such as over
a bathroom sink, the high forward reach shall be 44 in. max. Where a clear
floor space allows side approach to an element, and the reach is unobstructed, the high reach shall
be 48 in. maximum and the low reach shall be 15 in. minimum. If the side reach is obstructed, the
high reach maximum is either 46 in. or 48 in., depending on the depth of the obstruction.

Remember that an Informational Annex is not a mandatory part of the NEC, but is included for
informational purposes only.

The ADA Standard in its entirety should always be consulted. It can be viewed at:
http://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm

Summary
The 2014 NEC includes Informational Annex J , ADA Standards for Accessible Design, to assist
Code users in considering electrical design constraints for electrical and other building systems in
buildings required to comply with ADA, e.g., requirements for switch and receptacle heights.

To be ADA compliant a wall receptacle should be located not lower than __________ inches
above finish floor or ground to the lowest part of a duplex receptacle.
A. 12
B. 15
C. 18
D. 24

Answer: B. The 15 in. lower limit for the receptacle height applies to both unobstructed front
approach and unobstructed side approach.
210.12(A)

Other Important Changes
2014 NEC

110.24(A) Available Fault Current Field Marking
A new Informational Note has been added to remind Code users that the required available fault
current marking is related to compliance with Sections 110.9 and 110.10 to ensure suitable
interrupting ratings and fault clearing ability of equipment. This fault current value is not intended
to be used for arc lash hazard analysis as required in NFPA 70E-2012, Standard for Electrical
Safety in the Workplace.

210.4(D) Multiwire Branch Circuits Grouping
The general rule requires that the ungrounded and grounded circuit conductors of each multiwire
branch circuit be grouped using cable ties or similar means in at least one location within the
panelboard or other point of origin of the circuit. The requirement does not apply where the
conductors enter the panel through a cable or raceway unique to the circuit so that the conductor
association is obvious. The exception to the grouping requirement has been expanded to exempt
the requirement where conductors are identified at their terminations with numbered wire markers
corresponding to the appropriate circuit number.

Sinks
A receptacle located within 6 ft of the outside edge of a kitchen sink (or any other sink) in a
dwelling unit must have GFCI protection. A Code clarification calls attention to the fact that this
includes a receptacle within a cabinet, perhaps for the supply of a waste disposer. This under-
cabinet receptacle also requires AFCI protection of its supply circuit because of a 2014 change in
210.12(A).

314.15 Boxes and Conduit Bodies Damp or Wet Locations
This change will help to prevent degradation over time of metal boxes in outdoor locations from
moisture condensation. Approved drainage openings not larger than in. shall be permitted to be
installed in the field in boxes or conduit bodies listed for use in damp or wet locations. Larger
opening are permitted for field installation of listed drain fittings in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions. The provision also applies to nonmetallic boxes and conduit bodies.
A vague version of this new permission is in Section 110.12(A) of the existing Code, where
unused openings in equipment enclosures are permitted where intended for the operation of the
equipment.

314.25 Covers and Canopies
A new sentence has been added to this section. Screws used for the purpose of attaching covers,
faceplates, lampholders, luminaire canopies, or other equipment to boxes shall be machine screws
matching the thread gauge or size that is integral to the box or be in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions. Use of screws not designed for the purpose, such as drywall screws,
is prohibited.

210.12(A)

2014 NEC

330.30(B) Metal-Clad Cable: Type MC Securing and Supporting Securing
A provision has been added to this section to address securing of vertical installations of listed
MC cable of sizes 250 kcmil and larger. In vertical installations, listed MC cables with
ungrounded conductors of 250 kcmil and larger shall be permitted to be secured at intervals not
exceeding 10 ft. This provision recognizes the internal integral conductor support for large-size
MC cables that are used for vertical runs in high rise construction. The general rule requires the
securing of MC cables at intervals not exceeding 6 ft.

376.56(B)(1) and (B)(5) Metal Wireways Power Distribution Blocks Installation and
Conductors
This change pertains to listed power distribution blocks installed in metal wireways on the line
side of service equipment. Distribution blocks installed ahead of service equipment shall be listed
for the purpose. A new subsection (5) requires conductors in wireways to be arranged so that the
terminals of power distribution blocks remain unobstructed after installation.

400.7(A)(11) Flexible Cords and Cables Uses Permitted
This new permission for flexible cord and cable usage in subsection (11) is primarily intended to
address listed equipment assemblies for wall installation of flat-screen televisions. A flush wall
inlet is installed on a wall at typical receptacle height. A chapter 3 wiring method in the wall
connects this inlet to a single receptacle outlet above and higher up on the wall located behind the
television. The new permission allows a flexible cord listed as part of the assembly to connect the
inlet to an adjacent existing wall receptacle (used like a patch cord).

406.4(D) Replacements
Where receptacles are replaced in locations that require GFCI protection or AFCI protection for
the branch circuit according to current Code, GFCI or AFCI receptacles installed must be readily
accessible.

406.5(E) and (F) Receptacle Mounting Receptacles in Countertops and Similar Work
Surfaces Receptacles in Seating Areas and Other Similar Surfaces
Receptacles in countertop surfaces are not permitted to be installed in a face-up position unless
listed for the propose. This rule now applies to all occupancies, not just to dwelling units. New
subsection (F) prohibits mounting of receptacles in a face-up position in seating areas and other
similar surfaces unless the receptacle is any of the following:

(1) Part of an assembly listed as a furniture power distribution unit, if cord-and-plug
connected
(2) Part of an assembly listed either as household furnishings or as commercial furnishings
(3) Listed either as a receptacle assembly for countertop applications or as a GFCI receptacle
assembly for countertop applications
(4) Installed in a listed floor box

This change is intended to prohibit the practice of installing receptacles face-up in benches and
seating areas in public locations such as airports for laptop or electronic device charging. The
210.12(A)

2014 NEC

change should prevent equipment damage from spillage and prevent physical damage to the
receptacle that could expose persons to live parts.

408.3(F) Switchboard, Switchgear, or Panelboard Identification
Three new subsections have been added that require field marking for: high-impedance grounded
neutral AC systems, ungrounded DC systems, and resistively grounded DC systems. Marking for
each system shall include the word CAUTION followed by the type of system and the voltage
between conductors and, where applicable, the voltage to ground.

422.5 Appliances Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter (GFCI) Protection
This is a new section that requires all devices that provide GFCI protection (5 mA) required in
this article, 422 Appliances, to be readily accessible. Article 422 requires GFCI protection for
tire inflation and automotive vacuum machines, high-pressure spray washers (integral, factory
installed), vending machines, and electric drinking fountains. Dishwashers installed in dwelling
unit locations are required by 210.8(D) in the 2014 NEC to be provided with GFCI protection. A
receptacle in a dwelling unit serving a waste disposer shall be GFCI protected if installed within 6
ft of the outside edge of a sink, even where located below the sink in a cabinet.

514.3(C) Motor Fuel Dispensing Stations in Boatyards and Marinas
Rules for wiring motor fuel dispensing stations at marinas and boatyards, formerly located in
Section 555.21, is relocated to new Section 514.3(C). There are no changes to the rules. Class I,
Division 1 or 2 locations are specified for closed construction (floating piers) and open
construction (fixed piers). Exceptions apply to the classification for closed construction where
documentation is provided in accordance with 500.4(A). Both exceptions require documented air
space.

Code Refresher
500.4(A) Documentation All areas designated as hazardous (classified) locations shall
be properly documented. This documentation shall be available to those authorized to
design, install, inspect, maintain, or operate electrical equipment at the location.
The best documentation is a plan/drawing prepared by a qualified design professional
showing the details, dimensions, boundaries, etc. of the classified areas.

Article 516 Spray Application, Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes
This article has undergone a substantial rewrite in order to correlate the article with the 2011
editions of NFPA 33, Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable and Combustible
Materials and NFPA 34, Standard for Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes Using
Flammable or Combustible Liquids. Several new figures are included within the article to aid in
the understanding of the rules.

All of the existing definitions have been revised and new definitions have been added for flash-off
area, limited finishing workstation, resin application area, and unenclosed spray area. There is
revised language for enclosed spray booths or rooms to clarify the area classification of any
210.12(A)

2014 NEC

recirculation path in a recirculating spray booth, and to clarify that the interior of a fresh air
supply plenum in a non-recirculating spray booth is an unclassified area. Rules concerning
illumination of classified spray areas have been updated with detailed requirements extracted from
NFPA 33.

690.47(D) Additional Auxiliary Electrodes for Array Grounding
New Section 690.47(D) was inadvertently removed from the 2011 NEC. It has been included in
the 2014 NEC as it appeared in the 2008 Code. The only changes from the 2008 language is the
inclusion of the term auxiliary in the title of the subsection and the requirement for the grounding
electrode to be installed in accordance with 250.52 and 250.54. A grounding electrode shall be
installed at the location of all ground- and pole-mounted PV arrays and as close as practicable to
the location of roof-mounted arrays. The electrode(s) shall be connected directly to the array
frame(s) or structure. The structure of a pole- or ground-mounted array is permitted to serve as the
required auxiliary electrode if it qualifies as a grounding electrode in accordance with 250.52. The
purpose of the auxiliary electrode(s) is to provide a degree of protection from surges caused by
indirect lightning strikes. NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection
Systems, should be consulted where lightning protection is required.

700.19 Emergency System Circuits for Lighting and Power Multiwire Branch Circuits
This is a new section in the 2014 Code that is intended to enhance the reliability of critical
circuits. In the new Code, a branch circuit that serves emergency lighting and power loads shall
not be part of a multiwire branch circuit.

702.7(C) Optional Standby Systems Signs Power Inlet
This new subsection requires a warning sign where a power inlet is available for temporary
connection to a portable generator. The sign shall be placed near the inlet and shall indicate the
configuration of the transfer switch of the premises wiring. The sign shall display one of the
following:

WARNING: FOR CONNECTION OF A SEPARATELY DERIVED (BONDED
NEUTRAL) SYETEM ONLY

WARNING: FOR CONNECTION OF A NONSEPARATELY DERIVED (FLOATING
NEUTRAL) SYETEM ONLY

210.12(A)

Notes Page
2014 NEC

Appendix A
Common 2011 National Electrical CodeViolations
Noted by Maine Electricians Examining Board staff in 2011-2013 Page 1

Common 2011 National Electrical Code Violations
Noted by Maine Electricians Examining Board staff in 2011-2013
And Bonding of CSST

1. A metal raceway emerging from grade at a pole and enclosing service conductors
is not bonded to the grounded system conductor. [250.80]

Often an underground service supplied from a pole requires protection from physical
damage for service conductors up to 8 above grade at the pole. Where rigid metal
conduit or intermediate metal conduit is used for protection, the raceway must be
connected (bonded) to the service neutral. The underground service conductors from the
pole to the building or structure are usually direct buried or enclosed in PVC or other
nonmetallic raceway. The isolated metal conduit on the pole is bonded to the utilitys
down ground, the conductor installed to ground the neutral tap of the transformer to a
ground rod at the base of the pole. The common violation that staff has encountered
occurs in instances where the pole is a point pole (no transformer on the pole). In the
event that insulation failure of an ungrounded conductor energizes the conduit,
connection of the steel conduit to a ground rod alone will not clear the fault. Generally,
the best option is to coordinate with the utility so that a conductor connected to the utility
neutral is run down the pole for connection to the service conduit. If steel conduit is
installed all the way up the pole, the connection to the grounded system conductor could
be made at the top of the pole by utility workers. Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) could
be used on the pole above 8 above grade if acceptable to the utility. The relevant NEC
sections are: 250.80; 250.102 [except 250.102(D) and particularly 250.102(E)(2),
Exception]; 250.8; Table 250.66; and 300.5(D)(1) and (D)(4). Utility company standards
also apply. See Rules 360C and 314B of the National Electrical Safety Code(NESC),
C2-2007.

2. A commercial service supplied with 2 AWG aluminum service-entrance
conductors is protected at 100 amperes. [Table 310.15(B)(16)]

For conductor types rated at 75C, Table 310.15(B)(16) lists the ampacity of AWG 2
aluminum as 90 amperes. According to 240.6(A), a 90-A overcurrent device is a standard
size. It is rare that the ampacity in the 90C column can be used, since all circuit
terminations, conductors, and equipment would have to be rated for 90C [see
110.14(C)]. For a residential service, Section 310.15(B)(7) permits 2 AWG aluminum to
be protected at 100 amps.

3. The grounding electrode conductor (GEC) is not secured to the meter socket
enclosure. [110.3(B)]

Section 312.5(C) requires that cables be secured to cabinets, cutout boxes, and meter
socket enclosures. True, the GEC is technically a conductor rather than a cable. The State
Electrical Inspectors often encounter installations where the GEC is run through a small
factory supplied knock-out (KO) in the bottom of the meter socket. These KOs (often )
are either single KOs or are the center of a concentric set of KOs. These small KOs are
Appendix A

not intended for passage of grounding electrode conductors. A connector is required to
help prevent stress on the cable/conductor from being transmitted to the GEC termination
in the socket. It also prevents the GEC from being pushed into the enclosure, possibly
contacting live parts. Additionally, the GEC must be securely fastened to the surface on
which it is carried [250.64(B)].

4. A concrete-encased electrode is not bonded to the grounding electrode system.
[250.50]

Section 250.50 states that all grounding electrodes as described in 250.52(A)(1) through
(A)(7) that are present at each building or structure served shall be bonded together to
form the grounding electrode system. A concrete-encased electrode as specified in
250.52(A)(3)(1) is almost always available for new construction. However, arrangements
must be made to make the grounding electrode (reinforcing steel) available after concrete
is poured or to connect a conductor to the reinforcing steel prior to concrete pouring. A
copper grounding electrode conductor connected to reinforcing bar and exiting the
concrete structure in the area where the electrical service is to be located is ideal. A box
out near the top of a concrete wall allowing access to re-bar after the pour also works
well. A concrete-encased electrode, particular in a footing, is usually a very effective
grounding electrode. The electrode remains below the frost line, and, where there is a full
basement or living space below grade, the electrode in the footing is relatively deep for
its entire length (as opposed to a driven rod). If concrete walls are not covered with
insulating foam or other material preventing direct contact with the earth, the concrete
surface in direct contact with the earth is substantial and a very effective grounding
electrode. If a concrete footing does not include reinforcing bars, placement of 20
minimum of 4 AWG copper minimum as described in 250.52(A)(3)(2) is worth the effort
in terms of service grounding.

5. Conductor ampacity is not adjusted (or correctly adjusted), where there are
more than 30 current-carrying conductors at any cross section in a metal wireway.
[376.22(B)]

Metal wireways installed above panels are a convenient way to transition from
horizontally run branch circuits to vertical raceways between the wireways and panels.
Depending on where the horizontally run branch circuit wiring leaves the wireway
relative to where the circuit conductors enter the wireway, the number of current-carrying
conductors at a cross section of the wireway could exceed 30 conductors. The 30-
conductor threshold does not relate to a total of 30 current-carrying conductors in the
wireway, but to 30 current-carrying conductors at any cross section. This is clarified in
Section 376.22(B) of the 2014 NEC. Where the number of current-carrying conductors at
any cross section exceeds 30, the adjustment factors in 310.15(B)(3)(a) must be applied.
If 31-40 conductors are installed at any cross section, all conductors have to be adjusted
to 40% of their initial ampacity, 35% for 41 or more conductors. These are deep
reductions in ampacity that apply to all current-carrying conductors, not just to the
number of current-carrying conductors over 30.

Appendix A

6. Type TC-ER cable and Type CL3R cable is used for mini-split heat pump wiring
between the outdoor and indoor units. [336.12(2)] and [Chapter 9, Table 11(A)]

Type TC-ER cable is not permitted to be installed outside of a raceway or cable tray,
except for extended runs in supervised industrial settings as permitted in 336.10(7), or
when installed outdoors supported by a messenger as permitted in 336.10(4). TC-ER
cable has been used extensively in Maine to interconnect the outdoor and indoor units of
mini-split heat pump systems. Usually the outdoor unit is secured to an outside wall with
the indoor unit mounted back-to-back from the outdoor unit, except higher. For some
installations, the indoor unit is located on an interior wall, and the TC-ER has been run as
interior wiring similar to NM wiring. Also, the Maine State Electrical Inspectors have
cited Type CL3R for this same use. Most of the indoor mini-split heat pump units that
have been inspected in Maine are rated 240-V, but occasionally 120-V units are
encountered. Even though CL3R is rated for 300 volts and the indoor heat pump units
have a low current draw, permitted power sources for this and similar cables is limited to
150 volts and low power as prescribed in Table 11(B) of Chapter 9. Since a portion of the
cabling is in a wet location, the only permitted application is a Class 3 non-inherently
limited power source, applicable for 120-V units only. In addition to using the correct
cable, be sure that the proper overcurrent protection is provided for the interconnecting
cable. One more thing: Section 210.63 appliesa convenience receptacle for servicing
HVAC equipment, located within 25 of the equipment.

7. Recessed luminaires are not fastened to the suspended ceiling grid. [410.36(B)]

Recessed luminaires (troffers) must be securely fastened to the suspended ceiling grid by
mechanical means such as bolts, screws, rivets, or listed clips identified for use with the
type of grid and luminaire. Many troffers are constructed with integral clips for this
purpose. Some installers are under the impression that this requirement is not applicable
where the luminaires are supported by separate wires in addition to the ceiling support
wires. Section 300.11(A) addresses independent support wires for the support of wiring,
but not for the support of luminaires.

8. Arc-fault circuit-interrupter (AFCI) protection of branch circuits is not installed
as required. [210.12(A)]

The Electricians Examining Board voted to amend Section 210.12(A) in the 2008 NEC
and in previous editions. It was thought that an amended AFCI requirement was
forthcoming with the adoption of the 2011 NEC. However, the Board ultimately voted to
adopt 210.12 unamended in the 2011 NEC. This is likely part of the reason that the State
Electrical Inspectors found so many violations of the AFCI requirements. All 120-volt,
single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling
unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms,
sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be
protected by a listed combination-type AFCI device. This rule applies also to two-family
and multifamily dwellings. This requirement is expanded in the 2014 Code.

Appendix A

9. No intersystem bonding has been installed. [250.94]

For new buildings or structures, specific rules apply for providing a means for
interconnecting bonding conductors of other systems such as TV and communications
services with the electric utility service grounding electrode system. There are several
options and a variety of products available to meet the provisions of this section. If the
service equipment is located inside of the building, the intersystem bonding provision can
be located either inside or outside. Intersystem bonding provisions shall also be provided
at the required disconnecting means for a separate building.

10. The ends of a ferrous metal raceway enclosing a grounding electrode conductor
are not bonded to the GEC, or the raceway is not otherwise made continuous
between the metal cabinet and the electrode. [250.64(E)]

Ferrous raceways enclosing GECs must be electrically continuous from the point of
attachment to cabinets or equipment to the grounding electrode, or be made continuous
by bonding each end of the raceway to the GEC. The bonding jumper for the raceway
shall be the same size as, or larger than, the enclosed GEC. Where steel raceway
enclosing a GEC is electrically continuous, the majority of current actually flows through
the raceway. Some wireman only bond one end of the ferrous raceway. The purpose for
bonding is not accomplished by bonding only one end. Bonding of only one end will set
up an inductive choke effect that will impede the flow of current.

Beyond the Code: A GEC should not be installed in a ferrous raceway if it can be
avoided. When a GEC is installed in a continuous ferrous raceway, the impedance of the
grounding electrode conductor path is increased significantly over that of using the
copper conductor alone. The increase in impedance when a steel conduit is used is about
40% for a 6 AWG copper conductor enclosed in a conduit, to about 500% for a 3/0
copper conductor enclosed in a 1 conduit. Since aluminum conduit is nonmagnetic, it
will not adversely affect the impedance of the GEC path. An aluminum conduit enclosing
a GEC is not required to be electrically continuous. Schedule 80 PVC conduit is a good
choice when physical protection is needed for a grounding electrode conductor.

11. Circuit breakers installed in a panel are not specified by the manufacturer as
suitable for use in the panel, and the breakers are not UL Classified breakers
suitable for use in the panel. [110.3(B)]

In addition to a panel manufacturers own brand of Listed circuit breakers, Specified
breakers (manufactured by others) are listed by the panel manufacturer as suitable for use
in their panels. Additionally, Classified breakers are manufactured that are suitable for
use in several panel brands, in accordance with the instructions for the Classified breaker.
Classified breakers are limited to applications where the available fault current is not
more than 10,000 amperes, since they are not tested in a specific series rated system. The
fact that a breaker fits (is interchangeable) in another manufacturers panel does not
necessarily constitute a Code-compliant installation.

Appendix A

Bonding of corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST)

Section 7.13.2 of NFPA 54-2012, National Fuel Gas Code, requires bonding of
corrugated stainless steel tubing in an effort to protect the tubing against the potentially
harmful effects of an indirect lighting strike. All manufacturers instructions for this
product require bonding using 6 AWG copper connecting to the electrical service
grounding electrode system. The boding jumper shall connect to a metallic pipe or fitting
between the point of delivery and the first downstream CSST fitting. The bonding clamp
may be installed on a steel pipe component of the system (black pipe) or on a CSST
fitting. Newer black-jacketed CSST may not require bonding.

This requirement is beyond the NEC rule in 250.104(B) that permits the equipment
grounding conductor of the branch circuit supplying a gas appliance to bond the gas
piping. Even though 110.3(B) requires electrical equipment to be installed in accordance
with all manufacturers instructions, bonding of gas piping for lightning protection is
beyond the purview of the NEC. However, licensed electricians are the most qualified
trade technicians to perform this work, especially if the bonding connection is made
within the service equipment enclosure. Another good reason for involvement of an
electrician is the fact that this piping is not permitted to be used as a grounding electrode
[250.52(B)(1)]. An isolating fitting in the piping system should be used where necessary
to prevent this.

Maine Amendments to the 2011 National Electrical Code
1

02 DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSIONAL AND FINANCIAL REGULATION

318 ELECTRICIANS EXAMINING BOARD

Chapter 120: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION STANDARDS

SUMMARY: This chapter establishes the effective dates of the current edition of the National Electrical
Code to which all installations must conform.

1. All installations of electrical equipment commencing on or after J uly 1, 2011 must comply with the
2011 edition of the National Electrical Code, National Fire Protection standard #70, as well as with
all applicable statutes or rules of the State and all applicable ordinances, orders, rules and
regulations of local municipalities.

2. The Board hereby adopts and incorporates into this chapter by reference The National Electrical
Code, National Fire Protection Association standard #70, (2011 edition) with the following
exceptions:

A. The Board adopts Article 200.6(D) with the following amendment:

200.6 Means of Identifying Grounded Conductors

(D) Grounded Conductors of Different Systems. Where grounded
conductors of different systems are installed in the same raceway, cable,
box, auxiliary gutter, or other type of enclosure, each grounded conductor
shall be identified by system. Identification that distinguishes each system
grounded conductor shall be permitted by one of the following means:

(1) One system grounded conductor shall have an outer covering
conforming to 200.6(A) or (B).
(2) The grounded conductor(s) of other systems shall have a different
outer covering conforming to 200.6(A) or 200.6(B) or by an outer
covering of white or gray with a readily distinguishable colored strip
other than green running along the insulation.
(3) Other and different means of identification as allowed by 200.6(A)
or (B) that will distinguish each system grounded conductor.
The means of identification shall be documented in a manner that is
readily available or shall be permanently posted where the conductors of
different systems originate.

2

Explanation: The method used for conductor identification shall be permanently posted where
the conductors of different systems originate. Documentation in a manner that is readily
available shall not be permitted as an identification means.

B. The Board adopts Article 210.5(C)(3) with the following amendment:

210.5 Identification for Branch Circuits

(C) Identification of Ungrounded Conductors. Ungrounded conductors shall
be identified in accordance with 210.5(C)(1), (2) and (3).

(3) Posting of Identification Means. The method utilized for conductors
originating within each branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-circuit
distribution equipment shall be documented in a manner that is readily
available or shall be permanently posted at each branch-circuit panelboard
or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment.

Explanation: The method used for conductor identification shall be permanently posted at each
branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment. Documentation in a
manner that is readily available shall not be permitted as an identification means.

C. The Board adopts Article 215.12(C) with the following amendment:

215.12 Identification for Feeders

(C) Ungrounded Conductors. Where the premises wiring system has feeders
supplied from more than one nominal voltage system, each ungrounded
conductor of a feeder shall be identified by phase or line and system at all
termination, connection, and splice points. The means of identification
shall be permitted to be by separate color coding, marking tape, tagging, or
other approved means. The method utilized for conductors originating
within each feeder panelboard or similar feeder distribution equipment
shall be documented in a manner that is readily available or shall be
permanently posted at each feeder panelboard or similar feeder distribution
equipment.

Explanation: This amendment is identical to the amendment to 210.5(C)(3), except applied to
feeders.

D. The Board adopts Article 334.10(3) with the following amendment:

334.10 Uses Permitted

(3) Other structures permitted to be of Types III, IV, and V
construction except as prohibited in 334.12. Cables shall be
concealed within walls, floors, or ceilings that provide a thermal

3

barrier of material that has at least a 15-minute finish rating as
identified in listings of fire-rated assemblies.

Explanation: Type NM, NMC, and NMS cables are permitted to be run concealed or exposed. For
concealed cables, a thermal barrier that has at least a 15-minute finish rating shall not be required.

E. The Board does not adopt Article 334.12(A)(2), Uses Not Permitted.

Explanation: This section is not adopted in Maine. Types NM, NMC, and NMS cables are in fact
permitted to be installed exposed in dropped or suspended ceilings in dwelling units and in other
occupancy types including commercial occupancies.

F. The Board adopts Article 338.12(B) (1) and (2) with the following amendment:

338.12 Uses Not Permitted

(B) Underground Service-Entrance Cable.

(1) For interior wiring of branch circuits and feeders originating and
terminating within the same building.

(2) For aboveground installations except where USE cable emerges
from the ground and is terminated in an enclosure at an outdoor a
location acceptable to the Authority Having J urisdiction and the
cable is protected in accordance with 300.5(D).

Explanation: Type USE (URD) cable is not permitted for interior wiring of branch circuits and
feeders originating and terminating within the same building. However, Type USE cable is
permitted for aboveground installations where USE cable emerges from the ground and is
terminated in an enclosure at a location acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, either
inside or outside, and the cable is protected in accordance with 300.5(D). This amendment will
continue to allow the generally accepted practice of installing continuous runs of USE cable
without splicing, terminating in the first enclosure either outside or inside of a building, when the
cable is enclosed in a suitable raceway. This also applies to the indoor portion of an underground
run of USE cable that originates at an indoor panelboard near an outside wall of a structure.

G. The Board adopts Article 702.4(B)(2) with the following amendment:

702.4 Capacity and Rating

(B) System Capacity.

(2) Automatic Transfer Equipment. For other than single-family
dwellings, where automatic transfer equipment is used, an
optional standby system shall comply with (2)(a) or (2)(b).

4

Explanation: For optional standby systems that supply single-family dwellings, the standby source
shall not be required to be capable of supplying the full load that is transferred by the automatic
transfer equipment.

3. Copies of the National Electrical Code, National Fire Protection Association standard #70 may be
purchased from:

National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101
Quincy, MA 02269-9101
Telephone: 1-800-344-3555

Maine Electricians Examining Board

Important Statute Changes

Appendix C

1101. Definitions
4-A. Supervision. Two apprentice electricians, one helper electrician or 2 helper
electricians who are both currently enrolled in, or have completed, a program of study consisting
of 576 hours of education as approved by the Electricians' Examining Board or from an
accredited institution may work with and under the direct supervision of a master electrician,
limited electrician or journeyman electrician. A master electrician who teaches an electrical
course at a Maine career and technical education center, a Maine career and technical education
region, a Maine community college or an apprenticeship program registered by the Department
of Labor may have a maximum of 12 helper or apprentice electricians under direct supervision
while making electrical installations that are a part of the instructional program of the school or
apprenticeship program, as long as the total value of each installation does not exceed $5,000.
An electrical installation may not be commenced pursuant to this subsection without the prior
approval of the director or president of the school or apprenticeship program at which the master
electrician is an instructor. These installations are limited to those done in buildings or facilities
owned or controlled by:
A. School administrative units; and [2005, c. 347, Pt. B, 1 (AMD).]
B. Nonprofit organizations. [2005, c. 347, Pt. B, 1 (AMD).]
The Electricians' Examining Board and the municipal electrical inspector of the
municipality in which the installation is to be made, if the municipality has an inspector, must be
notified of all installation projects entered into pursuant to this subsection prior to the
commencement of the project. There must be an inspection by a state electrical inspector or by
the municipal electrical inspector of the municipality in which the installation has been made, if
the municipality has an inspector, before any wiring on the project is concealed.
[ 2011, c. 650, 1 (AMD) .]
Comment: In order for a master, journeyman, or limited electrician to supervise two
helpers, both helpers must be enrolled in a Board approved 576-hour program of study
or have completed such training. All apprentice licensees are enrolled in approved
training.
8. Utility corporation. "Utility corporation" means a utility that is not a public utility, as
defined in Title 35-A, section 102, or a person, firm or corporation subject to the jurisdiction of
the Federal Communications Commission.
[ 2011, c. 290, 2 (RPR) .]



Appendix C

1102. Exceptions
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to the following: [ 1973, c. 363, ( RPR) . ]
1. Commissions.
[ 1997, c. 119, 2 ( RP) . ]
1-A. Public utility. An entity subject to the jurisdiction of the Public Utilities Commission,
the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or the Federal Communications Commission,
including all employees of such an entity, but only to the extent the entity or its employees are
making electrical installations in furtherance of providing its authorized service or activities
incidental to that authorized service. This exception does not apply to:
A. Installations, other than installation of a meter, inside a customer's building; [ 2011, c.
290, 3 ( NEW) . ]
B. Installations of mobile home service equipment; and [ 2011, c. 290, 3 ( NEW) . ]
C. Installations at any business office of a utility corporation that is not physically located
adjacent to the utility's generation or transmission and distribution plant; [ 2011, c. 290, 3
( NEW) . ]
[ 2011, c. 290, 3 ( RPR) . ]
1-B. Aboveground electric lines. Electrical work in connection with the construction,
installation, operation, repair or maintenance of any aboveground electric line capable of
operating at one kilovolt or more.
[ 2011, c. 290, 4 ( NEW) . ]
1-C. Contractor. An entity, including all employees of such an entity, to the extent the
entity has contracted with a public utility, as described in this section, to perform services for the
public utility, but only to the extent the public utility would be exempt from this chapter if it
were performing the services directly through its employees; or
[ 2011, c. 290, 5 ( NEW) . ]
2. Utility corporations.
[ 2011, c. 290, 6 ( RP) . ]

Comment: Aboveground electric lines in 1-B is intended to address non-utility-owned, high-
voltage collection lines associated with wind electric generation farms. There may be
an error in 1-A(C)in that electrical installations in business offices of a public utility are
within the jurisdiction of the NEC regardless of their proximity to generation or
distribution facilities. Also, the term utility corporation is used in 1-A(C) under the
heading Public utility in 1-A.



Appendix C

1102-B. Permits and inspections
3. Inspection required. An inspection is required before the electrical wiring is enclosed by
the building construction. The electrician making the installation or alteration shall notify the
state electrical inspector when the installation is ready for inspection. The inspector shall inspect
the installation within a reasonable time so as not to cause undue delay in the progress of the
construction contract or installation. The inspector shall determine whether the installation
complies with all applicable statutes, ordinances and rules. If the inspector determines that the
installation does not so comply, the procedures set forth in section 1104 apply. Any utility
corporation must require proof of permit prior to connecting power to the installation.
[ 2011, c. 286, Pt . F, 8 ( AMD) . ]
Comment: The inspector needs to be contacted for an inspection before the wiring in
enclosed by wallboard or other construction
1201-A. Exceptions to licensing requirements
12. Incidental work. Regular employees of an owner or a lessee of real property doing
incidental electrical work on that property or incidental electrical work by a person whose
occupation involves miscellaneous jobs of manual labor. For purposes of this subsection,
"incidental electrical work'' means minor electrical work, limited to light fixtures and switches,
that occurs by chance and that does not require electrical installation calculations.
[ 2011, c. 691, Pt . A, 35 ( NEW) . ]
Comment: An application of this exception is that a custodian in a school is permitted to
replace a luminaire ballast and/or a light switch. It does not permit an unlicensed person
to replace all ballasts in an area as part of scheduled maintenance. The exception to
licensing permits a so-called handy man to replace or move a luminaire or light switch
while in the course of a remodel project or the like. Any person that performs electrical
work under this exception must understand that the permission to work does not qualify a
person for the work. Any wireman must be familiar with basic electricity and installation
practices.
1202. Issuance of licenses
5. Electrical company.
[ 2011, c. 420, Pt . M, 7 ( AFF) ; 2011, c. 420, Pt . M, 6 ( RP) . ]
5. Electrical company. The board shall issue a license to operate an electrical company to a
person who files an application validated by a master or limited electrician licensee.

Comment: The previous language has been deleted. The company license no longer exists.
All permits must be applied for by a licensed master or limited electrician. The permit
holder is responsible for compliance with all Board laws and rules.

Important Rule Changes

Appendix D

02 DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSIONAL AND FINANCIAL REGULATION
318 ELECTRICIANS' EXAMINING BOARD
Chapter 135: ELECTRICAL PERMITS

Summary: This chapter identifies the types of licensee who may apply for an electrical permit, requires
that the licensee applying for a permit must personally sign the application, prohibits a licensee from
signing a permit application on behalf of or in the name of another licensee, requires that the permit fee be
paid at time of application, and states that a person who applies for a permit is legally and professionally
responsible for compliance with the electrical laws and rules relating to the installation for which the
permit was requested.

1. Application for Electrical Permit
Application for an electrical permit pursuant to 32 M.R.S.A. 1102-B may be made only by:
1. An individual master electrician; or
2. An individual limited electrician, for an installation within the scope of the licensees
limited practice.
The application must be personally signed by the master electrician or limited electrician
applying for the permit. A licensee may not sign an application on behalf of or in the name of
another licensee, even if authorized to do so by the other licensee.
2. Fees
An application for an electrical permit must be accompanied by the fees required by Chapter 10,
Section 5(15) of the rules of the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Office of
Licensing and Registration entitled Establishment of License Fees.
3. Responsibility
A master electrician or limited electrician who applies for an electrical permit is legally and
professionally responsible for compliance with all laws and rules enforceable by the board with
respect to the installation for which the permit was requested.

STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 32 M.R.S.A. 1102-B(2) and (4), 1153, 1153-A
EFFECTIVE DATE:
J uly 19, 2011 filing 2011-240
210.12(A)

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