Knowing the difference between electrical building codes and standards is essential to do quality work in the field. It’s also essential to passing your electrical examination.
Article 90.1 of the National Electrical Code clearly defines the purpose of the code as “the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.” NEC code rules by design are focused on creating an electrically safe environment for the public who frequent and the electricians who service those environments.
In order to interpret and apply codes and standards in a manner that will protect the health and welfare of the public, electricians need to know the difference between electrical codes and electrical standards.
Codes are standards that has been enacted into law by the authority having jurisdiction, which means that the electrician is legally obligated to comply with the code. If the code includes references to a standard, that standard has been incorporated in and by definition is part of that legally enforceable code.
Standards can consists of either technical definitions, procedures, or guidelines that specify the minimum requirements for the installation and or use of electrical systems or equipment. Standards specify installation and maintenance methods and or results and thereby provide a method for standardizing commonly identifiable and accepted practice in the electrical field.
Are you familiar with the most commonly referenced construction and maintenance NFPA codes and standards referenced on master and journeyman level electrical licensing exams?
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