What is the National Electrical Code?
A national electrical code is a standardized set of recommendations for electrical wiring, equipment, and related issues. Many nations have their own version of a national electrical code, with one of the most famous being the National Electrical Code® used in the United States. The purpose of such a document is to create a set of guidelines which can be followed by electrical contractors to ensure that electrical systems across the nation are standardized, safe, and easy to work on. The National Electrical Code® in the United States is published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It is also known as NFPA 70, referring to the publication number used to identify the National Electrical Code®. While this code is not enshrined in the national law as a legally binding document, many regions mandate that electrical contractors abide by it when they perform electrical installations. This document is revised and updated every three years to reflect changing practices and info
The National Electrical Code or NEC is a set of standards designed to minimize the risk of electrocution when using electricity. This standard governs the configuration, installation and modification of electrical systems in homes and businesses. The NEC is updated regularly, but not on a yearly basis. Depending on which state you live in, the electrical code may be a year or more behind current NEC standards. Additionally, local governments have their own sets of amendments which also affect how the NEC is implemented. Compliance to the electrical code is not optional, and any project which does not conform to local electrical codes is subject to interruption or cancellation by local authorities. Before you start a new project involving electrical systems or alterations to an existing system, check your state and local compliance codes to make sure you are authorized to start the project or what licensing may be required before doing so.
