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NEC Code-Making Panel 9

Second Draft Meeting Agenda

November 9-11, 2015

San Diego, CA

Item No. Subject 15-11 -1 Call to Order 15-11-2 Introduction of Members and Guests 15-11-3 Approval of A2016 First Draft Meeting Minutes 15-11-4 Review of Meeting Procedures and Revision Schedule 15-11-5 Task Group Reports 15-11-6 Process Public Comments and Develop Second Revisions 15-11-7 Fire Protection Research Foundation Requests 15-11-8 Old Business 15-11-9 New Business 15-11-10 Adjournment

Public Comment No. 428 100, Substation.



Public Comment No. 1790 Section No. 312.1

Public Comment No. 1579 Section No. 312.5(B)

Public Comment No. 376 Section No. 312.5(C)

Public Comment No. 1040 Section No. 312.6(A)


































Public Comment No. 1792 Section No. 314.23(B)(1)





Public Comment No. 1793 Section No. 314.27(A) [Excl

Public Comment No. 1794 Section No. 314.28(A)(3)

Public Comment No. 1123 Section No. 314.28(E)(1)

Public Comment No. 1235 Section after 314.70(B)

Public Comment No. 1795 Section No. 314.71 [Excludi










Public Comment No. 1614 406.2, Outlet Box Hood.

Public Comment No. 168 Section No. 408.3(A)(2)











Public Comment No. 1421 Section No. 480.6(D)

Public Comment No. 1476 Section No. 480.6(D)

Public Comment No. 1263 Section No. 480.9(E)

Public Comment No. 1042 Article 490




Public Comment No. 428-NFPA 70-2015 [ Definition: Substation. ]

Substation.

An assemblage of equipment containing (e.g., switches, interrupting devices, protection relays circuit breakers , buses,transformers, switchgear, motor control centers, etc… and transformers) through which electric energy is passed for thepurpose of switching distribution, switching, or modifying characteristics. A substation is generally of such size or complexitythat it incorporates one or more buses and a multiplicity of electrical equipment; is usually the receiving point for more than onesupply circuit to transform power from one voltage to another or from one system to another. its characteristics.

Statement of Problem and Substantiation for Public Comment

The wording of this definition as presented in the First Draft does not reflect the final action of CMP 9 on the revision. Numerous comments submitted by Panel Members during balloting highlight this issue, as well as the Committee Statement which is inconsistent with the First Revision as recorded. This Public Comment is intended to restore the Code text to the panel action established during the First Revision meeting.

Related Item

First Revision No. 2429-NFPA 70-2015 [Definition: Substation.]

Submitter Information Verification

Submitter Full Name: ROBERT OSBORNE

Organization: UL LLC

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Mon Aug 24 13:33:28 EDT 2015

National Fire Protection Association Report http://submittals.nfpa.org/TerraViewWeb/ContentFetcher?commentPara...

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Substation.

An assemblage of equipment containing switches, interrupting devices, protection relays, buses, transformers,switchgear, motor control centers, etc… etc., through which electric energy is passed for the purpose of switching ormodifying characteristics. A substation is generally of such size or complexity that it incorporates one or more buses and amultiplicity of electrical equipment; is usually the receiving point for more than one supply circuit to transform power from onevoltage to another or from one system to another.

Add Informational Note: While substations typically contain voltages greater than 1000V, voltages less than 1000V may bepresent.

Add definition of Power Distribution Center in Part I of Art. 100 to replace the removal of Substation.

Additional Proposed Changes

File Name Description Approved

PDC_definition.docxThis is a new definition to cover those instances where Substation doesn't apply due to voltage level.


I was part of the task group that removed the term "Substation" from Part I. While I'm in agreement with this change, this has left a void for large enclosures, similar to a building and substations, that are found throughout the world containing voltages less than 1000V.If "Substation" is now going to mean that voltages greater than 1000V must exist within the enclosure or outdoor installation, then we need to fill the void left by removing the term from Part I of Art. 100. There are "Power Distribution Centers" also known in the industry as substations that only contain voltages less than 1000V. Also, it's a little misleading by placing the term "Substation" in Part II, as there are typically other voltages present such as SCADA, DCS, Instrumentation, station control power, lighting and HVAC circuits that are less than 1000V. Adding the informational note to the new definition of Substation in Part II would clarify that voltages less than 1000V may be present in addition to the medium and high voltages.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Paul Guidry

Organization: Fluor Enterprises, Inc.

Affilliation: Associated Builders and Contractors

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Thu Sep 17 09:53:46 EDT 2015


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Art. 100 Definitions

Power Distribution Center- An assemblage of equipment containing switches, interrupting devices,

protection relays, buses, transformers, switchgear, motor control centers, etc., through which electric

energy is passed for the purpose of switching or modifying characteristics. A Power Distribution Center

is generally of such size or complexity that it incorporates one or more buses and a multiplicity of

electrical equipment; is usually the receiving point for more than one supply circuit to transform power

from one voltage to another or from one system to another.

Informational Note: A Power Distribution Center differs from a Substation in that there are no voltages

over 1000V present inside the enclosure.


Substation.

An assemblage of equipment containing switches, interrupting devices, protection relays, buses, transformers, switchgear,motor control centers, etc… through which electric energy is passed for the purpose of switching or modifying characteristics. Asubstation is generally of such size or complexity that it incorporates one or more buses and a multiplicity of electricalequipment; is usually the receiving point for more than one supply circuit to transform power from one voltage to another orfrom one system to another.


The Correlating Committee directs the panel to give further consideration to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2429.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: CC on NEC-AAC

Organization: NFPA

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Mon Sep 28 14:32:04 EDT 2015


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Public Comment No. 1790-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 312.1 ]

312.1 Scope.

This article covers the installation and construction specifications of cabinets, cutout boxes, and meter socket enclosures. Itdoes not apply to equipment operating at over 1000 volts, except as specifically referenced elsewhere in the Code.



Related Item

First Revision No. 2401-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 312.1]



Organization: NFPA

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



592 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1579-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 312.5(B) ]

(B) Metal Cabinets, Cutout Boxes, and Meter Socket Enclosures.

Where metal enclosures within the scope of this article are installed with messenger-supported wiring, open wiring oninsulators, or concealed knob-and-tube wiring, conductors shall enter through insulating bushings or, in dry locations, throughflexible tubing extending from the last insulating support and firmly secured to the

The device or equipment is listed and evaluated for installation within any listed enclosure.


The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only those

enclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the large

number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued

enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely

impractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rdparty devices from the market.

These 3rdparty devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the current

install base of enclosures across the US.

3rdparty devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing the

necessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of such

information will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage,

microgrid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.

In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal to

allow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. We

recognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and not

designed for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However,

we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosures

and evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safely

installed.

In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installed

inside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by a

qualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices,

taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.

To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on the

amount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in any

crosssectional area. Evaluation of this limit should should be performed by the Inspector

during the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as no

network of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item


593 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Submitter Full Name: Jarl Meagher

Organization: [ Not Specified ]

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Fri Sep 25 14:41:35 EDT 2015


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Public Comment No. 376-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 312.5(C) ]

(C) Cables.

Where cable is used, each cable shall be secured to the cabinet, cutout box, or meter socket enclosure.

Exception: Cables with entirely nonmetallic sheaths shall be permitted to enter the top of a surface-mounted enclosurethrough one or more nonflexible raceways not less than 450 mm (18 in.) and not more than 3.0 m (10 ft) in length, provided allof the following conditions are met:

(a) Each cable is fastened within 300 mm (12 in.), measured along the sheath, of the outer end of the raceway.

(b) The raceway extends directly above the enclosure and does not penetrate a structural ceiling.

(c) A fitting is provided on each end of the raceway to protect the cable(s) from abrasion and the fittings remainaccessible after installation.

(d) The raceway is sealed or plugged at the outer end using approved means so as to prevent access to the enclosurethrough the raceway.

(e) The cable sheath is continuous through the raceway and extends into the enclosure beyond the fitting not less than6 mm ( 1⁄ 4 in.).

(f) The raceway is fastened at its outer end and at other points in accordance with the applicable article.

(g) Where installed as conduit or tubing, the cable fill does not exceed the amount that would be permitted for completeconduit or tubing systems by Table 1 of Chapter 9 of this Code and all applicable notes thereto. Note 2 to Chapter 9 , Table 1,Note 2 Tables does not apply to this condition.

Informational Note: See Table 1 in Chapter 9, including Note 9, for allowable cable fill in circular raceways. See310.15(B)(3) (a) for required ampacity reductions for multiple cables installed in a common raceway.


The notes in Chapter 9, do not apply to Table 1, they apply to the tables contained in Chapter 9.

Related Item

First Revision No. 2403-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 312.5(C)]


Submitter Full Name: MIKE HOLT

Organization: MIKE HOLT ENTERPRISES INC

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Tue Aug 04 19:48:03 EDT 2015


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Public Comment No. 1040-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 312.6(A) ]

(A) Width of Wiring Gutters.

Conductors shall not be deflected within a cabinet or cutout box unless a gutter having a width in accordance with Table312.6(A) is provided. Conductors in parallel in accordance with 310.10(H) shall be judged on the basis of the number ofconductors in parallel.

Table 312.6(A) Minimum Wire-Bending Space at Terminals and Minimum Width of Wiring Gutters

Wire Size (AWG or kcmil) Wires per Terminal

All OtherConductors

Compact Stranded AA-8000 Aluminum AlloyConductors (see Note 2)

1 2 3 4 5

mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in.

14–10 12–8Not

specified— — — — — — — —

8–6 6–4 38.1 1 1⁄2 — — — — — — — —

4–3 2–1 50.8 2 — — — — — — — —

2 1/0 63.5 2 1⁄2 — — — — — — — —

1 2/0 76.2 3 — — — — — — — —

1/0–2/0 3/0–4/0 88.9 3 1⁄2 127 5 178 7 — — — —

3/0–4/0 250–300 102 4 152 6 203 8 — — — —

250 350 114 4 1⁄2 152 6 203 8 254 10 — —

300–350 400–500 127 5 203 8 254 10 305 12 — —

400–500 600–750 152 6 203 8 254 10 305 12 356 14

600–700 800–1000 203 8 254 10 305 12 356 14 406 16

750–900 — 203 8 305 12 356 14 406 16 457 18

1000–1250 — 254 10 — — — — — — — —

1500–2000 — 305 12 — — — — — — — —

Note: Bending space at terminals shall be measured in a straight line from the end of the lug or wire connector (in the directionthat the wire leaves the terminal) to the wall, barrier, or obstruction.

2. This column shall be permitted to be used to determine the required minimum wire-bending space for compact strandedaluminum conductors in sizes up to 1000 kcmil and manufactured using AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloyconductor material in accordance with 310.106(B). The minimum width of the wire gutter space shall be determined using the allother conductors value in this table.


The NEMA wire bending study to validate the inclusion of AA-8000 AL wire bending allowances to this table is well underway. The results will be available by the second draft meeting.

Related Item

First Revision No. 2435-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 312.6(A)]


Submitter Full Name: Chad Kennedy

Organization: Schneider Electric

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Wed Sep 23 10:45:17 EDT 2015


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All Other Conductors Compact Stranded AA-8000 Aluminum Alloy Conductors (see Note 2)

1 2 3 4 5


14–10

12–8

Not specified — — — — — — — —

8–6

6–4

38.1 1 1 ⁄ 2 — — — — — — — —

4–3

2–1

50.8 2 — — — — — — — —

2

1/0

63.5 2 1 ⁄ 2 — — — — — — — —

1

2/0

76.2 3 — — — — — — — —

1/0–2/0

3/0–4/0

88.9 3 1 ⁄ 2 127 5 178 7 — — — —

3/0–4/0

250–300

102 4 152 6 203 8 — — — —

250

350

114 4 1 ⁄ 2 152 6 203 8 254 10 — —

300–350

400–500

127 5 203 8 254 10 305 12 — —

400–500

600–750

152 6 203 8 254 10 305 12 356 14

600–700

800–1000

203 8 254 10 305 12 356 14 406 16

750–900

—

203 8 305 12 356 14 406 16 457 18

1000–1250

—

254 10 — — — — — — — —

1500–2000

—

305 12 — — — — — — — —



599 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

2. This column shall be permitted to be used to determine the required wire-bending space for compact stranded aluminumconductors in sizes up to 1000 kcmil and manufactured using AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy conductormaterial in accordance with 310.106(B). The minimum width of the wire gutter space shall be determined using the all otherconductors value in this table.


The concept presented has merit, but lacks substantiation. This Public Comment is to restore Table 312.6(A) to the text in the 2014 NEC

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Robert Osborne


Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



600 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM






All OtherConductors

Compact Stranded AA-8000 Aluminum AlloyConductors (see Note 2)

1 2 3 4 5


14–10 12–8Not

specified— — — — — — — —

8–6 6–4 38.1 11⁄2 — — — — — — — —

4–3 2–1 50.8 2 — — — — — — — —

2 1/0 63.5 21⁄2 — — — — — — — —

1 2/0 76.2 3 — — — — — — — —

1/0–2/0 3/0–4/0 88.9 31⁄2 127 5 178 7 — — — —

3/0–4/0 250–300 102 4 152 6 203 8 — — — —

250 350 114 41⁄2 152 6 203 8 254 10 — —

300–350 400–500 127 5 203 8 254 10 305 12 — —

400–500 600–750 152 6 203 8 254 10 305 12 356 14

600–700 800–1000 203 8 254 10 305 12 356 14 406 16

750–900 — 203 8 305 12 356 14 406 16 457 18

1000–1250 — 254 10 — — — — — — — —

1500–2000 — 305 12 — — — — — — — —


2. This column shall be permitted to be used to determine the required wire-bending space for compact stranded aluminumconductors in sizes up to 1000 kcmil and manufactured using AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy conductormaterial in accordance with 310.106(B). The minimum width of the wire gutter space shall be determined using the all otherconductors value in this table.



Related Item




Organization: NFPA

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



601 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(A)

312.8 Switch and Overcurrent Device Enclosures .

The wiring space within enclosures for switches and overcurrent devices shall be permitted for other wiring and equipment onlyas provided in (A) and (B).

with Splices, Taps, and Feed-Through Conductors.

The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for conductors feeding through, spliced,or tapping off to other enclosures, switches, or overcurrent devices where all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The total of all conductors installed at any cross section of the wiring space does not exceed 40 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.

(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, taps, devices and equipment installed taps installed at any cross section of thewiring space does not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.

(3) A warning label complying with 110.21(B) is applied to the enclosure that identifies the closest disconnecting means forany feed-through conductors.

(B) Devices and Equipment.

The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for devices and equipment where all ofthe following conditions are met:

(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment

(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, taps, devices, and equipment at any cross section of the wiring space does notexceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.


As originally worded, this proposal appears to prohibit the field installation of truly an infinite number of flange and/or surface mounted devices whereby terminations must protrude into the interior panel enclosure space. Specific to electrical wiring devices, potentially affected products could include manual controllers, flanged straight blade and locking inlets and outlets, cam-type panel mount devices and IEC 309 pin & sleeve receptacles. In each case, the device terminations protrude inside of the enclosure if they are panel mounted on the exterior of the panelboard or motor control center. These are not atypical applications; similarly, it places a completely unreasonable burden on the manufacturers of these devices to ensure that replacement kits or the flange/surface mounted devices themselves are listed to the (once again) infinite number of panelboard and/or motor control center products offered by industry.

The request here is to revert to the existing 2014 NFPA 70 text for NEC® 312.8. Thank you.

Related Item

Public Input No. 3091-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 312.8]



Submitter Full Name: Stephen Rood

Organization: Legrand North America

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



602 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(A)

312.8 Switch and Overcurrent Device Enclosures.


Enclosures with Splices, Taps,

and

Feed-Through Conductors , and Power Monitoring Equipment .

The wiring space

of

within enclosures for switches

or

and overcurrent devices shall be permitted for listed power monitoring equipment, conductors feeding through, spliced, ortapping off to other enclosures, switches, or

overcurrent

overcurrent devices where all of the following conditions are met

:

.


(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, taps, devices and equipment installed and listed power monitoringequipment installed at any cross section of the wiring space does not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of thatspace.







The inclusion of devices and equipment is too broad and verification that all safety aspects were addressed would be very difficult. Power monitoring equipment could be installed using the general rules of this section without impacting the performance of the overcurrent devices installed in the enclosure.

Related Item





Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



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(A) Splices, Taps, and Feed-Through Conductors.



(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, taps, devices and equipment installed at any cross section of the wiring spacedoes not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit thedevice or equipment is listed as being evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment switch or overcurrent deviceenclosures.

(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, taps, devices, and equipment installed at any cross section of the wiring spacedoes not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.


As noted in the substantiation to FR 2404, this revisions is intended to limit the inclusion of devices and equipment in a wiring space to those that are identified as field installable accessories as part of the listed equipment, or as a listed kit evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment. The phrase "listed kit evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment" may be interpreted as requiring a kit to include an itemized list of the "specific equipment" with which the kit is compatible. Additionally, this equipment may be provided in designs which are not considered a "kit". As the original submitter of the Public Input which generated the First Revision, I am providing a Public Comment which is intended to clarify a portion of this requirement in a way that is consistent with my original intent. The substantive change to the wording in 312.8(B)(1) ("...the device or equipment is listed as being evaluated for field installation in switch or overcurrent device enclosures.") would meet the original intent, which is to ensure the added device or equipment is listed equipment that has been evaluated for field installation in the application. The UL category for "Energy-Monitoring Current Transformers" (XOBA) is an example of equipment that would satisfy this requirement.

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Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



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(1) The total area of all conductors installed at any cross section of the wiring space does not exceed 40 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.




The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for to be occuplied by devices andequipment where all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment switch and overcurrent device enclosures, and



As originally worded, it appears this proposal would prohibit the installation of current transformers or meters for energy monitoring in any switch and overcurrent device enclosures unless every possible current transformer or meter was evaluated and listed for use in every possible enclosure. If this interpretation is correct, it puts a financially insurmountable burden on the submetering industry. The industry as a whole has an excellent safety record with respect to recognized and listed metering devices placed within switch and overcurrent device enclosures. The success of such applications over multiple decades of use, together with the originally proposed wording for [Part B] seems, in practice, to effectively limit devices permitted within switch and overcurrent device enclosures to only those made by the enclosure manufacturer and could thus be perceived within the context of restraint of trade as anti-competitive.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Christopher Dent


Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



606 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM






(1) The total area of all conductors installed at any cross section of the wiring space does not exceed 40 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.




The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for to be occuplied by devices andequipment where all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment switch and overcurrent device enclsoures, and



As originally worded, it appears this proposal would prohibit the installation of current transformers or meters for energy monitoring in any switch and overcurrent device enclosures unless every possible current transformer or meter was evaluated and listed for use in every possible enclosure. If this interpretation is correct, it puts a financially insurmountable burden on the submetering industry. The industry as a whole has an excellent safety record with respect to recognized and listed metering devices placed within switch and overcurrent device enclosures. The success of such applications over multiple decades of use, together with the originally proposed wording for [Part B] seems, in practice, to effectively limit devices permitted within switch and overcurrent device enclosures to only those made by the enclosure manufacturer and could thus be perceived within the context of restraint of trade.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Alexei Holstein

Organization: Veris Industries

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



607 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(A)



with Splices, Taps, and Feed-

Through

Though Conductors.










This FR should be revised to delete the new 312.8(B) and revert back to the NEC 2014 language with only the addition of "devices and equipment".The original PI3091 cited "proliferation of devices and equipment" as substantiation for the change, however, the PI did not include any data that can be substantiated as saftey concerns and how the PI would address those concerns. This proposal would effectively prohibit the installation of LISTED current transformers or meters for energy monitoring in any switch and overcurrent device enclosures, unless every possible current transformer or meter was evaluated and listed for use in every posible enclosure in their every possible internal, both factory and field installed, configurations. this will put a financially insurmountable burden and a vitrually impossible requirement on, but not limited to , the submetering industry, and to effectively limit all devices within switch and overcurrent device enclosures to only those made by the enclosure manufacturer and could thous be percieved within the context of restraint of trade. Additionally, this proposal will slow the introduction of new enclosure models as well as prohibiting entry of new enclosure manufacturers/suppliers, because all new enclosures will lack products "listed" for use with/within them. Bust most of all, the submetering industry as a whole has had an excellent safety record with respect to recognized and listed metering devices placed within switch and overcurrent device enclosured, and the original PI had provided no evidence to prove otherwise.It seems that if the committee was concernd with maintaining adequate wiring space, the solution would be to include "devices and equipment" as part of the cross section calculations, as proposed in 312.8(A)(@) of FR2404.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Andrew Kriegman

Organization: Leviton Manufacturing Company,

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



608 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


312.8 Switch and Overcurrent Device Enclosures with Splices, Taps , Feed-Through Conductors, and Power Monitoring ormeasuring Equipment .

The wiring space within enclosures for switches and overcurrent devices shall be permitted for other wiring and equipmentonly as provided in (A) and (B). listed power monitoring or measuring equipment, conductors feeding through, spliced, ortapping off to other enclosures, switches, or overcurrent devices where all of the following conditions are met.


The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for listed power monitoring or measuringequipment, conductors feeding through, spliced, or tapping off to other enclosures, switches, or overcurrent devices where allof the following conditions are met:


(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, taps, devices and equipment installed listed power monitoring or measuringequipment installed at any cross section of the wiring space does not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area ofthat space.







Section 312.8 in the NEC-2014 permits Splices, Taps, and Feed-Through Conductors in the wiring space. The installation of listed monitoring or measuring equipment in industrial buildings, multiuse commercial, university campus buildings and Government facilities is vital to determine their energy usage and develop programs to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint. Components of the listed monitoring or measuring equipment may need to be in the wire bending space of the equipment that is already installed to accomplish this. The current section does not address this equipment and does not provide any guidance to the AHJ. With no guidance it may prevent the installation of equipment needed to meet this important emerging need or lead to unsafe installation.

FR 2404 as written can be confusing because of the use of devices and equipment. It is unclear if the requirement applies to all equipment in the enclosure and how one would distinguish the wiring space from the equipment space for some types of enclosures, particularly those used for industrial control equipment.

This proposal specifically addresses energy management or measuring equipment that is installed in the wiring space. It is the addition of this equipment that is the issue at present and is what the FR should address. Adding the requirement for Listed equipment and applying the same area limitation will enhance the safety of the installation. The language of the proposal also establishes enforceable guidelines for the AHJ through the Listing and specific area requirements.

This proposal also supports the important trend of energy measurement enabling conservation and reduction of carbon footprint. Many municipalities are in process of or are considering legislating energy measurement. The code should be aligned with this emerging need while providing the guidance for safe installations.

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Submitter Full Name: THOMAS PAPALLO

Organization: SIEMENS

Affilliation: Siemens


609 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



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(1)

The device or equipment is

identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit

listed and evaluated for

field installation in the specific equipment

installation within any listed enclosure



The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only those enclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely impractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rdparty devices from the market. These 3rdparty devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the current install base of enclosures across the US.3rdparty devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing the necessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of such information will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage, microgrid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal to allow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. We recognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and not designed for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However, we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosures and evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safely installed.In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installed inside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by aqualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices, taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on the amount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in any crosssectional area. Evaluation of this limit should should be performed by the Inspector during the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as no network of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Doug Brouwer

Organization: EKM Metering Inc


611 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



612 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM










The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for to be occupied by devices andequipment where all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit kitevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment switch and overcurrent device enclosures and



As originally worded, it appears this would prohibit the installation of current transformers or meters for energy monitoring in any switch and overcurrent device enclosures unless every possible current transformer or meter was evaluated and listed for use in every possible enclosure. If this interpretation is correct, it puts a financially insurmountable burden on the submetering industry.

The industry as a whole has an excellent safety record with respect to recognized and listed metering devices placed within switch and overcurrent device enclosures. The success of such applications over multiple decades of use, together with the originally proposed wording for [Part B] seems, in practice, to effectively limit devices permitted within switch and overcurrent device enclosures to only those made by the enclosure manufacturer and could thus be perceived within the context of restraint of trade.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Ryan Fetgatter

Organization: Davidge Controls

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



613 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(A)



with Splices, Taps

,

and Feed-Through Conductors.



(2) The total area of all conductors, splices, and taps , devices and equipment installed at any cross section of the wiringspace does not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of that space.







As proposed, this First Revision FR 2404 (and the Public Input PI 3091) revision to NEC® 312.8 is neither enforceable as worded, practicable in application, nor sufficiently justified to warrant these changes. Revert to existing 2014 text for NEC® 312.8.

FIELD-INSTALLABLE ACCESSORIES AS PART OF LISTED EQUIPMENT and LISTED KITS

Public Input PI 3091 that served as the basis for First Revision FR 2404 rationalized these changes: “There is a proliferation of devices and equipment intended by non-OEM’s to be installed in enclosures containing PANELBOARDS.” Article 408 covers panelboards; Article 312, by contrast, covers CABINETS. These are typically EMPTY enclosures that are “populated” by equipment that the electrician provides at the installation.

Firstly, NEC® Article 312 has no requirement that cabinets, as defined in Article 100, be listed. Indeed, such cabinets presently may be field-fabricated for the installation. Yet NEC® 312.8 as revised by FR 2404 mandates that these devices and equipment be either LISTED accessories or LISTED kits in relation to these enclosures.

Even those electrical enclosures that are listed do so in accordance with UL Standard UL 50. These are empty enclosures, typically listed by ENCLOSURE manufacturers who do NOT make any of the devices or equipment that go inside or are attached to such UL 50 enclosures. Those devices and equipment are manufactured by manufacturers with specialization and competence to manufacture such devices and equipment.

As such, there has ALWAYS been a “proliferation” of devices and equipment made by OTHER THAN the cabinet enclosure manufacturers. If there are specific hazards for panelboards, identify exactly what they are and address them in Article 408, not in Article 312. To now require that manufacturers of such devices and equipment get them listed for EACH and EVERY enclosure manufacturer’s cabinets is fundamentally unachievable. Certainly, the enclosure manufacturers do not have the resources or desire to list as an accessory or kits EACH and EVERY device and equipment that could potentially go in or on their enclosures. As proposed, the 312.8(B)(1) wording of PI 3091 and FR 2404 is not remotely achievable, especially when cabinets onto themselves are not required by Article 312 to be listed.

ENCLOSURE GEOMETRY

NEC® 312.6(A) and Table 312.6(A) establish the width of passages for conductors called wiring gutters. The width requirement is


614 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

based upon the size of the conductors in PARALLEL. As such, knowing the measureable width and depth of gutters, the cross-sectional AREA can be calculated. Percentages of conductor fill can be enforced. Any intrusion of a device or equipment in an enclosure effectively re-establishes new (reduced) gutter widths for conductor to pass around the intrusion. Those new (reduced) gutters (conductor passages) still must comply with existing Table 312.6(A). Consequently, those existing Table 312.6(A) gutter widths can still be enforced.

By contrast, the 312.8(B)(2) wording of PI 3091 and FR 2404 is not necessarily looking at where the CONDUCTORS are in PARALLEL but rather where the devices and equipment intrude into the VOLUME of the cabinet enclosure (where conductors are not necessarily running in parallel) and attempt to apply an UNORIENTED cross-section AREA restriction upon a VOLUME. Worded as it is, by whatever the issue unexplained by PI3091 may or may not be, how would this requirement ever be interpreted consistently for enforcement?

FR2404 seems to be a solution looking for a problem to solve.

Related Item




Submitter Full Name: Brian Rock

Organization: Hubbell Incorporated

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Tue Sep 22 17:37:44 EDT 2015


615 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) Any and all feed through conductors are returning from the load served by the switch or overcurrent device and are fullydeenergized by the operation of the switch or overcurrent device whose encosure they pass through.





The Code's present allowance for conductors to pass through an enclosure for a disconnect or overcurrent device without being switched by that device is potentially perilous in practice. While the Code does provide three requirements that must be met, all three rely on the installing electrician's compliance and the AHJ's observation for a safe installation.

The first two requirements dealing with conductor cross-section/fill rely on the electrician's judgment at the time of the installation. It's reasonable to assume that there are countless installations where the electrician has added "just one more wire" if he or she cared at all about fill and the disconnect is not actually to code due to excess fill.

The third requirement for a warning label again relies on the electrician to make the effort to install said label. In installations where the disconnect is subject the OSHA or other regulatory oversight, there's a decent to good chance that this label will be installed. In many other installations, it's doubtful that the effort would be taken and even more doubtful that the label would comply with 110.21(B) as required in the 2014 edition of the Code.

Another matter that the code does not address in 312.8 is the potential for damage to any feed through conductors in the event of a fault or arcing within the enclosure.

Making the revision as I have proposed would help to eliminate undue risk to service personnel operating on the equipment side of a disconnect or overcurrent device. In most cases, it would also eliminate the opportunity for an electrician to make a field judgment on whether the feed-through conductors and any splices or taps installed in the enclosure actually fall within the allowable occupation of the available cross section in the enclosure. While additional raceways would be required as a result of this revision, the increase in cost would be offset by a substantial increase in safety. Additionally, should any conduits be routed around a disconnect, it would serve as a visual warning to a service technician that power may have an additional path into the equipment he or she is working on.

For what it is worth, this proposed revision was proposed as a result of a service technician's near miss on a project I'm working on now. A disconnect was installed with feed-through conductors leading up to a unit heater. The equipment that the disconnect will be disconnecting has not been installed yet. A technician arrived on site to commission the heater that was fed through the only conduit leaving the disconnect switch. The technician threw the disconnect and locked it in the open position. Had he not taken the moment to double check for voltage at the heater he was servicing, there is a good chance he would have at least been shocked and would have fallen off of the ladder he was on and onto equipment below him. In short, a situation created by the Code-compliant omission of an enclosure below the disconnect and a few extra feet of conduit from that enclosure to the load could easily have resulted in a lost time injury or even a fatality.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: STEVE BADENHOP


Street Address:

City:

State:


616 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Zip:



617 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment .



The safety risks associated with the installation of devices in the wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices are best addressed by the listing of the devices in question. The proposed edit allows for devices to be evaluated in a type of enclosure, rather than each individual make/model. This, along with the provision to limit the cross-sectional area, will satisfy the intent of the proposal while allowing for devices to be installed in existing installations, where individual evaluations would be impractical or impossible.

The proposal as written would have unintended, far-reaching implications, and affect the already widespread use of devices and current transformers in energy management and monitoring systems.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: CHARLES PICARD

Organization: SolarCity

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



618 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment , or is a listed kit andevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation inside any listed enclosure



The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only those enclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely impractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rd-party devices from the market. These 3rd-party devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the current install base of enclosures across the US.

3rd-party devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing the necessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of such information will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage, micro-grid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.

In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal to allow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. We recognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and not designed for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However, we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosure and evaluated by a qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosure can be safely installed.

In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installed inside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by a qualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices, taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.

To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on the amount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in any cross-sectional area. Evaluation of this limit should should be performed by the Inspector during the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as no network of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Jon Hallam

Organization: Neurio Technology Inc

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



619 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is listed and evaluated and approved for installation within any listed enclosure. [This languagewould replace the following bullet 1 language completely.]




I am director of measurement and verification for a company in the Pacific Northwest. We measure performance of homes and businesses in our region and those data feed directly into the regional planning process. We have carried out this work for over 25 years and have installed or overseen installation of rated devices such as power transducers and current transformers in a wide range of electrical panels (manufactured between the mid-1950s and present). All of the equipment we have utilized is rated for use in panels and we have had no long-term, serious issues over hundreds of sites. The intent of the proposed language in this section of the Standard would seem to be to unnecessarily constrain the types of equipment that can be installed in load centers. There is no technical or safety reason I can see for this so I must assume the intent is to artificially limit the supply chain so as to maximize profits for the panel manufacturers. I strenuously object to this limitation as it has no technical or safety basis and would make it much harder for our region to carry out various types of research that are intended to deliver electricity and natural gas resources to consumers at the lowest possible cost.

Related Item




Submitter Full Name: Robert Davis

Organization: Ecotope

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



620 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1)








The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only those enclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely impractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rd party devices from the market. This includes independent metering devices designed to measure thepower use of a variety of end uses. This is critically important for my field - energy efficiency research. Without knowing how much energy something uses in the field, we cannot make accurate calculations of how much energy it saves. Laboratory testing for energy use does not replicate field conditions, which are more varied than the lab can provide.Enclosures are largely similar to one another and it should be fairly straightforward to design a test procedure that can ensure safety in all of them.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Lucinda Gilman

Organization: CLEAResult (energy efficiency consulting)

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



621 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The T he device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listedkit listed and evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed enclosure



As this provision is currently written, it would be nearly impossible, and therefore impractical, to certify any new accessories for all existing and new models of equipment. It would hinder efforts of homeowners who wish to utilize energy monitoring and management equipment as well as renewable energy and battery backup systems. There are many ways to provide options for fire safety within an electrical system but these regulations should not come at the expense of improving and evolving energy balancing technology and hardware.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: E Kemper

Organization: CLEAResult

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



622 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



The wiring space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices shall be permitted for to be occupied by devices andequipment where all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitdevice evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment switch and overcurrent device enclosures, and



As originally worded, it appears this proposal would prohibit the installation of current transformers or meters for energy monitoring in any switch and overcurrent device enclosures unless every possible current transformer or meter was evaluated and listed for use in every possible enclosure. If this interpretation is correct, it puts a financially insurmountable burden on the submetering industry.

The industry as a whole has an excellent safety record with respect to recognized and listed metering devices placed within switch and overcurrent device enclosures. The success of such applications over multiple decades of use, together with the originally proposed wording for [Part B] seems, in practice, to effectively limit devices permitted within switch and overcurrent device enclosures to only those made by the enclosure manufacturer and could thus be perceived within the context of restraint of trade.

Furthermore, this restriction would make it nearly impossible to retrofit submetering into existing homes, commercial, and industrial facilities, especially those using discontinued enclosures for which no current transformers have been approved.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Nathaniel Crutcher

Organization: Continental Control Systems

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



623 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit listedand evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed enclosure



The first draft language would prevent the installation of 3rd party monitors that make use of Current Transformers (CTs) to provide data that supports renewable credits, revenue-grade metering, and conservation efforts that focus on consumer awareness. Further, such data will be important to support the development of micro-grid and battery storage, which are integral technologies to the growth of renewable energy.We believe the proposed change strikes a good balance - both increasing safety and allowing for innovation and interoperability.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Meir Adest

Organization: SolarEdge Technologies

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



624 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit listedand evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed Enclosure




NEC_2017_amendment_document.docx Supporting document - SunEdison


The proposed modification to section 312.8 puts significant restrictions on the installation of 3rd party devices and equipment to only those enclosures that were assessed within by qualified test labs. 3rd part devices play an important role in the growth of home energy management and energy efficiency, connected home devices, renewable energy technologies such as solar and battery storage, and in enabling microgrids and providing utility services such as demand response for a sustainable grid.

Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely impractical, and would result in the elimination of 3rd party devices that are critical to enabling the above listed technology advancements. We fully recognize CMP9’s concerns around potential obstruction and hazard, and in order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installed inside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by a qualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices, taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.

To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on the amount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in any cross sectional area. Evaluation of this limit should be performed by the Inspector during the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as no network of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Kasiraman Krishnan

Organization: SunEdison

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



625 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitlisted and evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed enclosure




Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Jameson Brouwer

Organization: EKM Metering Inc

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



626 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitlisted and evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed enclosure



The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only thoseenclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the largenumber of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinuedenclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completelyimpractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rdparty devices from the market.These 3rdparty devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the currentinstall base of enclosures across the US.

3rdparty devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing thenecessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of suchinformation will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage,microgrid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.

In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal toallow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. Werecognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and notdesigned for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However,we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosuresand evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safelyinstalled.

In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installedinside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by aqualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices,taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.

To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on theamount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in anycrosssectional area. Evaluation of this limit should should be performed by the Inspectorduring the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as nonetwork of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Robert Schaefer

Organization: Also Energy

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



627 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM






It will be impractical to submitt current transformers (CT) for ALL enclousures new or old. Therefore I recommend to use thefollowing statement:

The device or equipment is listed and evaluated for installation within ANY listed enclosure.

Thanks

Sam Seyfi


t will be impractical to submit current transformers (CT) for ALL enclosures ( new or old). Therefore I recommend to use the following statement:The device or equipment is listed and evaluated for installation within ANY listed enclosure. ThanksSam Seyfi

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Sam Seyfi

Organization: MAGNELAB INC

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



628 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitlisted and evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed enclosure



The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only those enclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely impractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rdparty devices from the market. These 3rdparty devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the current install base of enclosures across the US. 3rdparty devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing the necessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of such information will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage, microgrid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid. In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal to allow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. We recognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and not designed for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However, we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosures and evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safely installed. In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installed inside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by a qualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices, taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC. To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on the amount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in any cross-sectional area. Evaluation of this limit should be performed by the Inspector during the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as no network of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Samuel Davenport

Organization: CCS

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



629 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit listedand evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any separately listed and evaluatedenclosure



The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only those enclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completely impractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rd¬party devices from the market. These 3rd ¬party devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the current install base of enclosures across the US. 3rd ¬party devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing the necessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of such information will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage, micro¬grid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid. In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal to allow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. We recognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and not designed for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However, we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosures and evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safely installed. In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installed inside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by a qualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices, taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC. To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on the amount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in any cross ¬sectional area. Evaluation of this limit should be performed by the Inspector during the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as no network of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Gregory Nielson

Organization: Vivint Solar

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



630 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1)









Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Mike Simpson

Organization: NREL

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



631 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM






(1) The device or equipment is listed and evaluated for installation within any listed enclosure.


The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only thoseenclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the largenumber of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinuedenclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completelyimpractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rd party devices from the market.These 3rd party devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the currentinstall base of enclosures across the US.3rd party devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing thenecessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of suchinformation will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage,micro-grid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal toallow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. Werecognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and notdesigned for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However,we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosuresand evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safelyinstalled.In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installedinside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by aqualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices,taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on theamount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in anycross-sectional area. Evaluation of this limit should should be performed by the Inspectorduring the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as nonetwork of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Greg Greenan

Organization: eGauge Systems LLC

Affilliation: eGauge Systems LLC

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



632 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kit listedand evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment installation within any listed enclosure



Sunrun supports the proposed alternative code language for NEC 312.8. The proposed changes offered here eliminate unnecessary restrictions that would keep third party devices from being installed insider enclosures. Implementation of the proposed NEC 312.8 as written would prohibit the placement of home sided sub-metering equipment within enclosures. Effectively this change prohibits the home owner from metering his or her load without the upgrade of the entire panel board, which may render a project economically or technically not feasible. Due to the large number of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinued enclosures already in the field, this requirement would result in the elimination of any third party devices from the market. Residences will not be able to use third party metering for the purposes of assessing their consumption either for general knowledge or analysis of their usage on a time of use rate or other similarly time dependent rate structure. The ability to collect and monitor this data will be important to the growth of renewable energy, providing the necessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of such information will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage, micro-grid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Amy Heart

Organization: Sunrun

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



633 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1)






[PERHAPS THIS, HOWEVER I WOULD RECOMMEND KEEPING THIS MORE SIMPLE...PERHAPS REQUIRE ULLISTING IF NECESSARY, ETC.]



I tend to agree with Neurio Technology Inc's take here, but this even seems like it could quickly escalate into bureaucratic overkill, putting unhelpful burdens on new construction as well as remodels, stifling SAFE, modern, Green Initiatives:


Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Seth B

Organization: EKM Metering, Inc

Affilliation: Green energy for consumers and also the construction industry.

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



634 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed kitevaluated for field installation in the specific equipment listed and evaluated for installation within any listed enclosure



The addition of 312.8 (B) would limit the installation of devices and equipment to only thoseenclosures that they were specifically assessed within by qualified test labs. Due to the largenumber of enclosures currently on the market, and the even greater number of discontinuedenclosures already in the field, this requirement is so burdensome as to be completelyimpractical, and would result in the elimination of any 3rd-party devices from the market.These 3rd-party devices have proven to be the only viable way of addressing the currentinstall base of enclosures across the US.

3rd-party devices fill a critical role in the growth of renewable energy by providing thenecessary sensor data to optimally manage a home’s participation on the grid. Lack of suchinformation will hinder the deployment of technologies such as solar, battery storage,micro-grid and demand response which are key to achieving a stable, sustainable grid.

In their statement regarding this proposed change, CMP9 references an earlier proposal toallow the installation of utilization equipment which was rejected in the 2011 cycle. Werecognize that the wide variety of existing devices classified as ‘utilization equipment’ and notdesigned for installation inside enclosures could result in obstruction and hazard. However,we propose that a device specifically designed for installation within any listed enclosuresand evaluated by qualified test lab for installation inside any listed enclosures can be safelyinstalled.

In order to provide clarity, we suggest the NEC specifies that a device may only be installedinside an enclosure if it is listed and approved for installation inside any listed enclosure by aqualified test lab. The installation of the device must not force any components (e.g. splices,taps, conductors) out of compliance with the NEC.

To address CMP9’s concerns about obstructions in the enclosure, we propose a limit on theamount of space that can be occupied by the device, splices, taps and conductors in anycross-sectional area. Evaluation of this limit should should be performed by the Inspectorduring the standard inspection process. A field evaluation would not be practical as nonetwork of evaluators exists that could handle the required volume.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: John Billy

Organization: Standard Energy Systems

Street Address:

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635 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM




(1) The device or equipment is identified as a field installable accessory as part of the listed equipment, or is a listed productor kit evaluated for field installation in the specific equipment switch and overcurrent device enclosures, and



The originally proposed wording would prohibit the installation of UL Listed accessories specifically tested and certified for use in switch and overcurrent device enclosures (e.g. panelboards). As millions of such products are currently installed and there is no evidence of any safety issue resulting from such installation, this seems to be an effort to force manufacturers of such products out of the marketplace. The wording change is both onerous and unfairly restrictive.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Neil Czarnecki

Organization: Reliance Controls Corporation

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636 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


314.20 Flush-Mounted Installations.

Flush-mounted installations within or behind a surface of concrete, tile, gypsum, plaster, or other noncombustible material,including boxes employing a flush-type cover or faceplate, shall be made so that the front edge of the box, plaster ring,extension ring, or listed extender will not be set back of the finished surface more than 6 mm ( 1⁄4 in.).

For F

lush-mounted installations within or behind a surface of

wood or other combustible surface material, boxes, plaster rings, extension rings, or listed extenders shall extend to the finishedsurface or project therefrom.


Have both conditions use the same intro text, the revised wording is now confusing.

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Submittal Date: Tue Aug 04 19:56:27 EDT 2015


637 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1792-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 314.23(B)(1) ]

(1) Nails and Screws.

Nails and screws, where used as a fastening means, shall secure boxes by using brackets on the outside of the enclosure, orthrough holes provided by the enclosure manufacturer in the back or a single side of the enclosure, or by using mounting holesin the back or a single side of the enclosure, or they shall pass through the interior within 6 mm (1⁄4 in.) of the back or ends ofthe enclosure. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the box unless exposed threads in the box are protected usingapproved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved.


The Correlating Committee directs the panel to give further consideration to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2410

Related Item

First Revision No. 2410-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 314.23(B)(1)]



Organization: NFPA

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638 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Nails and screws, where used as a fastening means, shall secure boxes by using brackets on the outside of the enclosure, orthrough holes provided by the enclosure manufacturer in the back or a single side of the enclosure, or by using mounting holesin the back or a single side of the enclosure, or they shall pass through the interior within 6 mm ( 1⁄4 in.) of the back or ends ofthe enclosure. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the box unless exposed threads in the box are protected usingapproved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved permitted .


IEC's position is to replace the word "approved" with "permitted" in the last sentence of 314.23(B)(1) - (FR 2410)

It is unreasonable to require an AHJ to approve a mounting hole made in the field.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: JOHN MASARICK

Organization: Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Affilliation: Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Sat Sep 19 16:55:16 EDT 2015


639 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Nails and screws, where used as a fastening means, shall secure boxes by using brackets on the outside of the enclosure, orthrough holes provided by the enclosure manufacturer in the back or a single side of the enclosure, or by or by using mountingholes in the back or a single side of the enclosure, or they shall pass through the interior within 6 mm ( 1⁄4 in.) of the back orends of the enclosure. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the box unless exposed threads in the box are protectedusing approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved.


The deleted text is not needed since the requirement is addressed in the following portion of the sentence.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: VINCE BACLAWSKI

Organization: NEMA

Street Address:

City:

State:

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640 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


314.27 Outlet Boxes.

(A) Boxes at Luminaire or Lampholder Outlets.

Outlet boxes or fittings and outlet boxes containing locking support and mounting receptacle used in combination withcompatible attachment fitting designed for the support of luminaires and lampholders, and installed as required by 314.23,shall be permitted to support a luminaire or lampholder.

(1) Vertical Surface Outlets.

Boxes used at luminaire or lampholder outlets in or on a vertical surface shall be identified and marked on the interior of the boxto indicate the maximum weight of the luminaire that is permitted to be supported by the box if other than 23 kg (50 lb).

Exception: A vertically mounted luminaire or lampholder weighing not more than 3 kg (6 lb) shall be permitted to be supportedon other boxes or plaster rings that are secured to other boxes, provided that the luminaire or its supporting yoke, or thelampholder, is secured to the box with no fewer than two No. 6 or larger screws.

(2) Ceiling Outlets.

At every outlet used exclusively for lighting, the box shall be designed or installed so that a luminaire or lampholder may beattached. Boxes shall be required to support a luminaire weighing a minimum of 23 kg (50 lb). A luminaire that weighs morethan 23 kg (50 lb) shall be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is listed for not less than the weightto be supported. The interior of the box shall be marked by the manufacturer to indicate the maximum weight the box shall bepermitted to support.

(B) Floor Boxes.

Boxes listed specifically for this application shall be used for receptacles located in the floor.

Exception: Where the authority having jurisdiction judges them free from likely exposure to physical damage, moisture, anddirt, boxes located in elevated floors of show windows and similar locations shall be permitted to be other than those listed forfloor applications. Receptacles and covers shall be listed as an assembly for this type of location.

(C) Boxes at Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fan Outlets.

Outlet boxes or outlet box systems used as the sole support of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan shall be listed, shall be markedby their manufacturer as suitable for this purpose, and shall not support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans that weigh more than32 kg (70 lb). For outlet boxes or outlet box systems designed to support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans that weigh more than16 kg (35 lb), the required marking shall include the maximum weight to be supported.

Outlet boxes containing listed locking support and mounting receptacle used in combination with compatible recognizedattachment fitting designed for the support of ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans, and installed as required by 314.23 , shall bepermitted to support ceiling suspended (paddle) fans.

Where spare, separately switched, ungrounded conductors are provided to a ceiling-mounted outlet box, in a locationacceptable for a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan in one-family, two-family, or multifamily dwellings, the outlet box or outlet boxsystem shall be listed for sole support of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan.

(D) Utilization Equipment.

Boxes used for the support of utilization equipment other than ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall meet the requirements of314.27(A) for the support of a luminaire that is the same size and weight.

Exception: Utilization equipment weighing not more than 3 kg (6 lb) shall be permitted to be supported on other boxes orplaster rings that are secured to other boxes, provided the equipment or its supporting yoke is secured to the box with nofewer than two No. 6 or larger screws.

(E) Separable Attachment Fittings.

Outlet boxes shall be permitted to support listed locking support and mounting receptacles used in combination with compatibleattachment fittings designed for the support of equipment covered within and subject to all weight and orientation limitscontemplated by the listing. Where such fittings are used, the equipment mounted shall comply with 314.27(A) through (D) asapplicable. Where the supporting receptacle is installed within a box, it shall be included in the fill calculation covered in314.16(B)(4).


This Public Comment seeks to do exactly as directed by the Correlating Committee by correcting transcription errors from the First Draft meeting. This was highlighted by the Correlating Committee (CC) in the First Draft, Correlating Committee Note No. 97-2015. The CC wrote:

“The Correlating Committee informs the public that transcription errors have occurred in the processing of the First Revision. It is imperative to open and read the first revision that applies to this section and to read all of the voting comments.”


641 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Inputs 4443 and 4665 suggested changed text in 314.27(A) and the second paragraph of 314.27(C); these changes were inadvertently added and should be removed. The accuracy of this Public Comment is verified when viewing the Panel Statement in FR 2411. The newly added 314.27(E) was approved by the Panel and should remain as shown in the Public Comment.

The Panel voted two other editorial changes that are reflected as the Panel intended in the Public Comment and are noted in the ballot comments. These changes are:314.27(A)(2) changed “A luminaire that weighs more than 23 kg (50 lb) shall be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is listed and marked on the interior of the box to indicate the maximum weight the box shall be permitted to support.” to “A luminaire that weighs more than 23 kg (50 lb) shall be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is listed for not less than the weight to be supported. The interior of the box shall be marked by the manufacturer to indicate the maximum weight the box shall be permitted to support.”

Also, 314.27(C) in the 3rd paragraph, the Panel changed “single-family” to “one family” and “multi-family” to “multifamily” and should remain in the section, as shown in the Public Comment.

Related Item

Correlating Committee Note No. 97-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 314.27]



Submitter Full Name: AMY CRONIN

Organization: STRATEGIC CODE SOLUTIONS LLC

Affilliation: Safety Quick Lighting and Fans Corp.

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



642 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


314.27 Outlet Boxes.

(A) Boxes at Luminaire or Lampholder Outlets.

Outlet boxes or fittings and outlet boxes containing locking support and mounting receptacle used in combination withcompatible attachment fitting designed for the support of luminaires and lampholders, and installed as required by 314.23,shall be permitted to support a luminaire or lampholder.

(1) Vertical Surface Outlets.

Boxes used at luminaire or lampholder outlets in or on a vertical surface shall be identified and marked on the interior of the boxto indicate the maximum weight of the luminaire that is permitted to be supported by the box if other than 23 kg (50 lb).

Exception: A vertically mounted luminaire or lampholder weighing not more than 3 kg (6 lb) shall be permitted to be supportedon other boxes or plaster rings that are secured to other boxes, provided that the luminaire or its supporting yoke, or thelampholder, is secured to the box with no fewer than two No. 6 or larger screws.

(2) Ceiling Outlets.

At every outlet used exclusively for lighting, the box shall be designed or installed so that a luminaire or lampholder may beattached. Boxes shall be required to support a luminaire weighing a minimum of 23 kg (50 lb). A luminaire that weighs morethan 23 kg (50 lb) shall be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is listed for not less than the weightto be supported. The interior of the box shall be marked by the manufacturer to indicate the maximum weight the box shall bepermitted to support.

(B) Floor Boxes.

Boxes listed specifically for this application shall be used for receptacles located in the floor.

Exception: Where the authority having jurisdiction judges them free from likely exposure to physical damage, moisture, anddirt, boxes located in elevated floors of show windows and similar locations shall be permitted to be other than those listed forfloor applications. Receptacles and covers shall be listed as an assembly for this type of location.

(C) Boxes at Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fan Outlets.

Outlet boxes or outlet box systems used as the sole support of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan shall be listed, shall be markedby their manufacturer as suitable for this purpose, and shall not support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans that weigh more than32 kg (70 lb). For outlet boxes or outlet box systems designed to support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans that weigh more than16 kg (35 lb), the required marking shall include the maximum weight to be supported.

Outlet boxes containing listed locking support and mounting receptacle used in combination with compatible recognizedattachment fitting designed for the support of ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans, and installed as required by 314.23 , shall bepermitted to support ceiling suspended (paddle) fans.

Where spare, separately switched, ungrounded conductors are provided to a ceiling-mounted outlet box, in a locationacceptable for a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan in one-family, two-family, or multifamily dwellings, the outlet box or outlet boxsystem shall be listed for sole support of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan.

(D) Utilization Equipment.

Boxes used for the support of utilization equipment other than ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall meet the requirements of314.27(A) for the support of a luminaire that is the same size and weight.

Exception: Utilization equipment weighing not more than 3 kg (6 lb) shall be permitted to be supported on other boxes orplaster rings that are secured to other boxes, provided the equipment or its supporting yoke is secured to the box with nofewer than two No. 6 or larger screws.

(E) Separable Attachment Fittings Termination Devices for Support of Luminaires and Ceiling-Suspended Fans .

Outlet boxes required in 314.27(A) and (C) shall be permitted to support listed locking support and mounting receptaclesmounting termination devices used in combination with compatible attachment fittings designed compatible fittings andidentified for the support of equipment covered within and subject to all weight and orientation limits contemplated byof luminaires or of ceiling-suspended fans within the weight and mounting-orientation limits of the listing. Where such fittingsare used, the equipment mounted shall comply with 314.27(A) through (D) as applicable. Where the supporting receptaclethe supporting termination device is installed within a box, it shall be included in the fill calculation covered in 314.16(B)(4).


The FR text in 314.27(A) and (C) relating to locking support and mounting receptacles is not necessary since 314.27(E) covers the requirements. The term “receptacles” is changed to “termination devices” since these devices do not conform to the NEC definition of a receptacle

Related Item



643 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Organization: NEMA

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644 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1793-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 314.27(A) [Excluding any Sub-Sections] ]

Outlet boxes or fittings and outlet boxes containing locking support and mounting receptacle used in combination withcompatible attachment fitting designed for the support of luminaires and lampholders, and installed as required by 314.23, shallbe permitted to support a luminaire or lampholder.


The Correlating Committee directs that further consideration be given to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2411

Related Item




Organization: NFPA

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645 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1794-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 314.28(A)(3) ]

(3) Smaller Dimensions.

Listed boxes or listed conduit bodies of dimensions less than those required in 314.28(A)(1) and (A)(2) shall be permitted forinstallations of combinations of conductors that are less than the maximum conduit or tubing fill (of conduits or tubing beingused) permitted by Table 1 of Chapter 9.

Listed conduit bodies of dimensions less than those required in 314.28(A)(2) , and having a radius of the curve to the centerlinenot less than that indicated in Table 2 of Chapter 9 for one-shot and full-shoe benders, shall be permitted for installations ofcombinations of conductors permitted by Table 1 of Chapter 9. These conduit bodies shall be marked to show they have beenspecifically evaluated in accordance with this provision.

Where the permitted combinations of conductors for which the box or conduit body has been listed are less than the maximumconduit or tubing fill permitted by Table 1 of Chapter 9, the box or conduit body shall be permanently marked with the maximumnumber and maximum size of conductors permitted. For other conductor sizes and combinations, the total cross-sectional areaof the fill shall not exceed the cross-sectional area of the conductors specified in the marking, based on the type of conductoridentified as part of the product listing.

Informational Note: Unless otherwise specified, the applicable product standards evaluate the fill markings covered herebased on conductors with Type XHHW insulation.


The Correlating Committee directs that the panel reconsider the text of the informational note in regard to possible mandatory language, assuring compliance with the NEC Style Manual.

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First Revision No. 2412-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 314.28(A)(3)]



Organization: NFPA

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646 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1123-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 314.28(E)(1) ]

(1) Installation.

Power distribution blocks installed in boxes shall be listed and labeled . Power distribution blocks installed on the line side of theservice equipment shall be listed indentified for the purpose and marked accordingly.



Essential_Guide_to_Product_Testing_and_Certification_NOV_2014.pdf

ETL Essential Guide to Product Testing & Certification 2014/2015 North American Edition. Please review document page numbers 5, 8 and 10 to see that ETL has requirements similar to UL, that products that do not bear their certification (listed) mark are not considered by ETL as being listed.


UL recognizes the Correlating Committee created a global First Correlating Revision (FCR) which directed that in all locations where the term “and labeled” was added after “listed” during the First Revision Stage, the words “and labeled” after “listed” be deleted, returning to previous text. UL understands that the Correlating Committee appointed a task group to address several issues involving the use of the terms “listed” and “labeled,” most importantly, to clarify and establish a distinction between the terms “listed” and “labeled” which are often used interchangeably. UL supports the need for this task group. However, UL does not expect the work of this task group to affect the 2017 NEC regarding the issue of “listed and labeled.” As such, UL is submitting comments to request that the words “and labeled” be added in various locations throughout the Code for the reasons expressed in the public inputs UL submitted on this issue. UL believes that these revisions will address an ongoing problem that should not wait until the 2020 NEC for resolution.

Subsequent to the Public Input Code Panel Meetings, UL has discussed this issue with its Electrical Council whose membership includes many AHJs. The proposed revisions to the NEC received general support from the membership. This issue was also discussed at a NEMA – NRTLs Forum held on August 14, 2015 at NEMA Headquarters. UL reiterated its support for the proposed revisions. The NRTLs represented at the meeting voiced no objection to the proposals.

The rationale for the revision was simple, to provide information to the AHJ regarding the suitability of equipment they encounter. The mark on the product is the manufacturer’s attestation that the product is in compliance with the appropriate standard. NRTL’s conduct factory surveillance of products, surveillance is one method to validate the manufacturer’s attestation. Should a product be found not to be compliant the manufacturer has the option of removing the mark and shipping the product without the mark, or holding the shipment and bringing the product into compliance. In either case the “Listing” is not impacted, as the “listing” is created at the completion of the “original” certification of the product and indicates the authorization but not the mandate to label products. So the only true way an AHJ can determine whether the product he is seeing is compliant with the applicable standard is via a label on the product. Taking it one step further, listings change with time. It is quite possible that a “listing” has been withdrawn; however labeled product may still be available for sale. Should equipment that is labeled, but not listed, be deemed acceptable? Based on the NEC definitions, it is possible to have a product that meets the Article 100 definition of listed but the testing organization made the manufacture remove the label for a non-compliance issue.

As for the concerns of products that are too small to be labeled, the definition of labeled is not limited to an actual label, it also includes symbols, or other identifying marks. The Safety Standards which define the listing requirements do not address labeling of products as defined by Article 100. As a general rule, NRTL’s do not consider a product as being listed unless it is also labeled. The UL White Book states that “Only those products bearing the appropriate UL Mark and the company's name, trade name, trademark or other authorized identification should be considered as being covered by UL's Certification, Listing, Classification and Follow-Up Service. The UL Mark provides evidence of listing or labeling, which may be required by installation codes or standards.” Again the requirements for the UL Mark are not a Safety Standard requirement, they are a UL requirement and the only way to show that a product is UL Certified (Listed); other NRTL’s have similar requirements.

Related Public Comments for This Document

Related Comment Relationship

Public Comment No. 532-NFPA 70-2015[Definition: Labeled.]

Addressed CMP 8 concerns that some listed products are marked or requiremarkings on the smallest shipping package.

Related Item

First Revision No. 2413-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 314.28(E)(1)]

Public Input No. 884-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 314.28(E)(1)]

Public Input No. 1072-NFPA 70-2014 [Definition: Labeled.]


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Submitter Full Name: JEFFREY FECTEAU

Organization: UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES LLC

Affilliation: UL

Street Address:

City:

State:

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648 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1235-NFPA 70-2015 [ New Section after 314.70(B) ]

(4) Conduit bodies that are used to change direction are not permitted for use with shield cables rated 5kV or higher. They may be pulled through a body that does not change direction.



Okonite_Recommendation_to_Avoid_Condulet.pdf Okonite Recommendation to Avoid Condulet


This is my second effort to disallow shielded cables in conduit bodies due to numerous troubles in the field . Shielded cable manufacturers recommend against the use of conduit bodies since the minimum bending radius is not sufficient in these bodies and results in an unsafe and unreliable installation.Often the result is that the entire must be changed to eliminate conduit bodies which requires complete replacement of the cable which adds financial burden to the end user or installer.

Related Item

Public Input No. 3802-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 314.70(B)]


Submitter Full Name: Joseph Zimnoch

Organization: The Okonite Company

Street Address:

City:

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649 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1795-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 314.71 [Excluding any Sub-Sections] ]

Pull and junction boxes and handhole enclosures shall provide approved space and dimensions for the installation ofconductors, and they shall comply with the specific requirements of this section. Conduit bodies shall be permitted if they meetthe dimensional requirements for boxes.


The Correlating Committee directs that further consideration be given to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2415. This action will be considered as a public comment.

Related Item

First Revision No. 2415-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 314.71 [Excluding any Sub-Sections]]



Organization: NFPA

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650 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(C) Switches Controlling Lighting Loads.

The grounded circuit conductor for the controlled lighting circuit shall be installed at the location where switches control lightingloads that are supplied by a grounded general-purpose branch circuit for bathrooms, hallways, stairways, or a room suitable forhuman habitation or other occupancy as defined in the applicable building code . A grounded conductor shall not be required tobe installed at lighting switch locations under any of the following conditions:

(1) Where conductors enter the box enclosing the switch through a raceway, provided that the raceway is large enough for allcontained conductors, including a grounded conductor

(2) Where the box enclosing the switch is accessible for the installation of an additional or replacement cable withoutremoving finish materials

(3) Where snap switches with integral enclosures comply with 300.15(E)

(4) Where

a switch serves other than a bathroom, hallway, stairway, or a room suitable for human habitation or other occupancy asdefined in the applicable building code

(5) Where multiple switch locations control the same lighting load such that the entire floor area of the room or space is visiblefrom the single or combined switch locations, the grounded circuit conductor shall only be required at one location.

(6) Where lighting in the area is controlled by automatic means

(7) Where a switch controls a receptacle load

Informational Note: The provision for a (future) grounded conductor is to complete a circuit path for electronic lightingcontrol devices.


Relocating (4) into the parent rule would make it easier to apply the requirement.

Related Item





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Submittal Date: Sun Aug 30 14:10:49 EDT 2015


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The grounded circuit conductor for the controlled lighting circuit shall be installed at the location where switches control lightingloads that are supplied by a grounded general-purpose branch circuit. A grounded conductor shall not be required to beinstalled at lighting switch locations under any of the following conditions:




(4) Where a switch serves other than a bathroom, hallway, stairway, or a room that is not suitable for human habitation orother occupancy as defined in the applicable building code



? Where multiple switch locations control the same lighting load such that the entire floor area of the room or space is visiblefrom the single or combined switch locations, the grounded circuit conductor shall only be required at one location.

Where lighting in the area is controlled by automatic means

Where a switch controls a receptacle load



It seems list item 4 is a direct conflict to the intent of the section. Here's an example or two of the conflict created by double negatives:A grounded conductor shall not be required to be installed at lighting switch locations under any of the following conditions: Where a switch serves a living roomWhere a switch serves a dining roomWhere a switch serves a kitchenWhere a switch serves a recreation room Where a switch serves a room suitable for human habitation or other occupancy as defined in the applicable building code. Also, it seems list item 5 should be a stand-alone paragraph that follows the list as it contains a special condition where a single grounded conductor IS required so this sentence does not fit in the list.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Phil Simmons

Organization: Simmons Electrical Services

Street Address:

City:

State:

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763 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



The grounded circuit conductor for the controlled lighting circuit shall be installed at the location where switches control lightingloads that are supplied by a grounded general-purpose branch circuit. The grounded condcutor shall be connected to switchingdevices that require line-to-neutral voltages to operate the electronics of the switch in the standby mode, and shall meet therequirements in 404.22. A grounded conductor shall not be required to be installed at lighting switch locations under any of thefollowing conditions:




(4) Where a switch serves other than a bathroom, hallway, stairway, or a room suitable for human habitation or otheroccupancy as defined in the applicable building code

(5) Where multiple switch locations control the same lighting load such that the entire floor area of the room or space is visiblefrom the single or combined switch locations, the grounded circuit conductor shall only be required at one location.





CMP-9 did a nice job of adding new section 404.22 that prohibits current from being introduced in the equipment grounding conductor from electronic switching devices. This comments seeks to build on the additional concerns expressed in the substantiation with Public Inout 1375. The substantiation pointed out that there is still no requirement for connection of the required grounded conductor. This new language will provide installers with a clear requirement that if the install an electronic device that requires a line-to-neural voltage to run the brain of the device, that it shall be connected to the device, and not just left safe-ended in the switch box. The reference from this section to new 404.22 will provide the additional restriction of current being introduced in the equipment grounding conductor, which was the revision sought by the original public input.

Related Item

Public Input No. 1375-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 404.2(C)]


Submitter Full Name: Michael Johnston

Organization: National Electrical Contractor

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



764 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(B) Grounding.

Snap switches, including dimmer and similar control switches, shall be connected to an equipment grounding conductor andshall provide a means to connect metal faceplates to the equipment grounding conductor, whether or not a metal faceplate isinstalled. Metal faceplates shall be grounded. Snap switches shall be considered to be part of an effective ground-fault currentpath if either of the following conditions is met:

(1) The switch is mounted with metal screws to a metal box or metal cover that is connected to an equipment groundingconductor or to a nonmetallic box with integral means for connecting to an equipment grounding conductor.

(2) An equipment grounding conductor or equipment bonding jumper is connected to an equipment grounding termination ofthe snap switch.

Exception No. 1 to (B): Where no means exists within the snap-switch enclosure for connecting to the equipment groundingconductor, or where the wiring method does not include or provide an equipment grounding conductor, a snap switch without aconnection to an equipment grounding conductor shall be permitted for replacement purposes only. A snap switch wired underthe provisions of this exception and located within 2.5 m (8 ft) vertically, or 1.5 m (5 ft) horizontally, of ground or exposedgrounded metal objects shall be provided with a faceplate of nonconducting noncombustible material with nonmetallicattachment screws, unless the switch mounting strap or yoke is nonmetallic or the circuit is protected by a ground-fault circuitinterrupter.

Exception No. 2 to (B): Listed kits or listed assemblies shall not be required to be connected to an equipment groundingconductor if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The device is provided with a nonmetallic faceplate that cannot be installed on any other type of device,

(2) The device does not have mounting means to accept other configurations of faceplates,

(3) The device is equipped with a nonmetallic yoke, and

(4) All parts of the device that are accessible after installation of the faceplate are manufactured of nonmetallic materials.

Exception No. 3 to (B): A snap switch with integral nonmetallic enclosure complying with 300.15(E) shall be permitted withouta connection to an equipment grounding conductor.


Delete the text that the metal faceplate must be 'grounded' since this means that we need to run a wire from the metal plate to a ground rod or other approved electrode. The use of the terms 'ground, grounded, grounding, bond, bonded, and bonding' was fixed in in the 2008 NEC. This panel clearly doesn't understand the proper term to use. Since there is no problem as the 2014 is written, I suggest we keep this rule 'as is.'

Related Item

First Revision No. 2417-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 404.9(B)]




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Submittal Date: Sun Aug 30 14:15:31 EDT 2015


765 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


404.22 Electronic Lighting Control Switches.

Electronic lighting control switches shall be listed. They shall not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor duringnormal operation. The requirement to not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor shall take effect on January1, 2020. For existing installations where the grounded conductor has not been provided in the switchbox, and where it is notpractical to install a grounded conductor, electronic lighting control switches which introduce current on the equipmentgrounding conductor shall be permitted. These Electronic lighting control switches shall be listed and labeled for use inreplacement or retrofit applications when configured such that they introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor.


Acuity Brands Lighting agrees with the comments submitted with the negative ballots from UL and NEMA. When an installation predates the required grounded conductor at switch locations, provisions should be made in the code to allow the use of energy saving products that have been evaluated and listed for this purpose. These products have been in use for years and are limited by the listing standard to no more than 0.5ma being introduced on the equipment grounding conductor. We manufacturer listed electronic lighting control switches that have a convertible design; they can be field configured for either connection to the grounded circuit conductor, or for connection to the equipment grounding conductor as shown in the attached illustration. When connected to the grounded conductor no current is introduced on the equipment grounding conductor. When connected to the equipment grounding conductor, the introduced current is less than 0.5ma.

Related Item

First Revision No. 2423-NFPA 70-2015 [New Definition after Definition: Vending Machine.]


Submitter Full Name: FREDERICK CARPENTER

Organization: ACUITY BRANDS LIGHTING

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766 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Electronic lighting control switches shall be listed. They shall not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductorduring normal operation. The requirement to not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor shall take effect onJanuary 1, 2020.


The Correlating Committee directs that further consideration be provided to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2423.

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767 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Electronic lighting control switches shall be listed and labeled . They shall not introduce current on the equipment groundingconductor during normal operation. The requirement to not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor shall takeeffect on January 1, 2020.

Exception: For dwelling unit installations existing prior to the effective date of 404.2(C), where the grounded conductor has notbeen provided in the switchbox and where installing the grounded conductor would require removing finish materials, electroniclighting control switches that introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor (as part of their normal operation) shallbe permitted. These electronic lighting control switches shall be listed for the purpose and marked either on the device orsmallest unit container with the following: "For use where the grounded (neutral) conductor is not provided in the outlet box" orequivalent.


UL does not support First Revision No. 2423.

Prior to the 2011 edition of the National Electrical Code, a grounded (neutral) conductor was not required at the switch location intended to control lighting loads. Without a neutral connection, many electronic control switches such as occupancy sensors must pass current through the grounding conductor to operate. Safety standards limit this current to 0.5 ma maximum.

UL supports the theory that electronic lighting control devices should not intentionally introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor during normal operation. This is especially true in installations where a grounded conductor has been installed in the device box. But prohibiting the ability to conduct a small amount of current (no more than 0.5ma) through the grounding conductor when the grounded conductor is not present, will eliminate a valuable, energy efficient, and safe product from the marketplace.

UL urges the panel to re-consider and introduce a practical solution whereby the Code permits this continued practice in a dwelling unit, where the installation predates the required grounded conductor at switch locations and where the addition of a grounded conductor would involve removing finish materials (refer to 404.2(C)(2) for precedence). Although this current is limited to 0.5ma, the limitation to a dwelling unit would further address any concern with the effect of cumulative current (0.5 mA maximum per device) on the grounding conductor because the number of switching devices likely to be present in dwelling unit applications is typically less than those installed in industrial or commercial applications.

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768 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Electronic lighting control switches shall be listed. They shall not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor duringnormal operation. The requirement to not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor shall take effect on January1, 2020.


IEC's position is to delete the last sentence in FR 2423.

IEC believes introducing current on the equipment grounding conductor during normal operation can create a very dangerous situation that has the potential of causing injury to people. Electronic lighting control switches that utilize the equipment grounding conductor as a return path should be eliminated from the market immediately.

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Submitter Full Name: JOHN MASARICK

Organization: Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Affilliation: Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.

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Submittal Date: Sat Sep 19 13:48:34 EDT 2015


769 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM



Electronic lighting control switches shall be listed. They shall not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor duringnormal operation. The requirement to not introduce current on the equipment grounding conductor shall take effect on January1, 2020. For installations existing prior to the effective date of 404.2(C) where the grounded conductor has not been provided inthe switchbox, and where it is not practical to install a grounded conductor, electronic lighting control switches which introducecurrent on the equipment grounding conductor shall be permitted. These electronic lighting control switches shall be listed andlabeled for use in replacement or retrofit applications only.


FR2416 modifying 404.2(C), and FR2423 creating the new 404.22, have significantly changed an important aspect of the original PI1375 submitted by NECA. The intent of PI1375 was to require the installation and use of the grounded conductor and prohibit the installation of electronic controls that utilize the grounding conductor for operation where a grounded conductor has been installed in the switchbox. But in retrofit installations, where the grounded conductor is not installed, electronic controls that utilize the grounding conductor would still be permitted, but only in these applications (retrofit applications). FR 2423 appears to have eliminated any possibility to install an electronic control that utilizes the grounding conductor for operation in retrofit applications, effectively eliminating controls which utilize the grounding conductor for operation from the marketplace. It is important to allow these devices in retrofit applications for the following reasons:

1. Eliminating these products from the marketplace will lower the level of safety with respect to current on the equipment grounding conductor. Installers, especially homeowners, will quickly realize that devices provided with a terminal or wire for a grounded conductor will work equally well when connected to the equipment grounding conductor. Since the 0.5ma limit placed on current introduced on the grounding conductor by UL standards will not exist for current introduced on the grounded conductor, much higher currents will be introduced on the equipment grounding conductor, especially in residential applications where code enforcement is less prevalent.2. These products have been listed and in use for many years. UL standards strictly control the amount of current permitted to be introduced on the equipment grounding conductor to no more than 0.5ma. 3. The suggested change to FR 2423 (new 404.22) will require these products to be listed and labeled for use in retrofit installations only where the grounded conductor is not provided in the switch box.4. Eliminating these products from the marketplace will severely impact the installation of important energy saving controls in existing buildings. The cost of having to run a grounded conductor to the switchbox will make the return on investment unfavorable for many, if not most projects. The committee should make the suggested revisions to FR2423 to permit electronic controls which utilize the grounding conductor for operation to be installed where the grounded conductor has not been provided at the switchbox for retrofit applications only.

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770 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 168-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 408.3(A)(2) ]

(2) Service Panelboards, Switchboards, and Switchgear.

Barriers shall be placed in all service panelboards, switchboards, and switchgear such that no uninsulated, ungrounded servicebusbar or service terminal is exposed to inadvertent contact by persons or maintenance equipment while servicing loadterminations.

Exception No. 1 : This provision does shall not apply to service panelboards with provisions for more than one servicedisconnect within a single enclosure as permitted in 408.36, Exceptions 1, 2, and 3.

Exception No. 2: This provision shall not apply to service rated transfer switches that do not contain an integral panelboard.

Exception No. 3: This provision shall not apply to an individual disconnecting means that is listed as suitable for use asservice equipment.


Service rated transfer switches contain overcurrent protection for the service conductors, and the overcurrent protection device is generally a circuit breaker. The barrier requirements for service rated panelboards could be improperly enforced on these types of transfer switches, when these switches do not contain integral panelboards. Adding the exception of individual service disconnects again enforces the code language that the requirements are for main breaker panelboards that are in stalled as the electrical service, not an individual service disconnecting means that is installed upstream of a distribution subpanel. Changing "does not" to "shall not" in the first exception brings the language in line with the requirements of 90.5(A)

Related Item

First Revision No. 2424-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 408.3(A)(2)]


Submitter Full Name: BRIAN BAUGHMAN

Organization: GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS

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Submittal Date: Tue Jul 07 11:40:06 EDT 2015


793 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1614-NFPA 70-2015 [ Definition: Outlet Box Hood. ]

Outlet Box Hood.

A housing shield intended to fit over a faceplate for flush-mounted wiring devices, or an integral component of an outlet box orof a faceplate for flush-mounted wiring devices. The hood does not serve to complete the electrical enclosure; it reduces therisk of water coming in contact with electrical components within the hood, such as attachment plugs, current taps, surgeprotective devices, direct plug-in transformer units, or wiring devices. It is commonly known as a “bubble cover.”


The text that I suggest deleting is explanatory material and doesn't belong as part of the definition. It could be an informational, although I see no real reason for that either.

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Submitter Full Name: RYAN JACKSON

Organization: RYAN JACKSON

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772 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(B) Around Switchboards and Switchgear.

Clearances around switchboards and switchgear shall comply with the provisions of 110.26 or 110.32 for up to 1000 volts asapplicable..


The Correlating Committee directs that FR 2428 be reviewed and correlated with FR 18. Panel 1 has revised the voltage levels and distances in Table 110.26(A)(1) up to and including1000 volts, so this reference to 110.32 in 408.18(B) is not necessary.

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796 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(C) Used as Service Equipment.

Each switchboard, switchgear, or panelboard, if used as service equipment, shall be provided with a main bonding jumpersized in accordance with 250.28(D) or the equivalent placed within the panelboard or one of the sections of the switchboard orswitchgear for connecting the grounded service conductor on its supply side to the switchboard, switchgear, or panelboardframe. All sections of a switchboard or switchgear shall be bonded together using a supply-side bonding jumper sized inaccordance with 250.102 or 250.102(C)(1) as applicable.

Exception: Switchboards, switchgear, and panelboards used as service equipment on high-impedance grounded neutralsystems in accordance with 250.36 shall not be required to be provided with a main bonding jumper.


The Correlating Committee directs that further consideration be given to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2425

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Organization: NFPA

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794 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(C) Used as Service Equipment.

Each switchboard, switchgear, or panelboard, if used as service equipment, shall be provided with a main bonding jumper sizedin accordance with 250.28(D) or the equivalent placed within the panelboard or one of the sections of the switchboard orswitchgear for connecting the grounded service conductor on its supply side to the switchboard, switchgear, or panelboardframe. All sections of a switchboard or switchgear shall be bonded together using an equipment bonding conductor or asupply-side bonding jumper sized in accordance with 250. 102 122 or 250.102(C)(1) as applicable.

Exception: Switchboards, switchgear, and panelboards used as service equipment on high-impedance grounded neutralsystems in accordance with 250.36 shall not be required to be provided with a main bonding jumper.


The original wording approved by CMP 9 is not contained in FR 2425. The mark-up above is based on the final wording that would result from the FR as written in the ballot. The above would correct to the wording in the ballot to the wording approved by CMP 9. The original wording approved by CMP 9 is as follows:(C) Used as Service Equipment.Each switchboard, switchgear, or panelboard, if used as service equipment, shall be provided with a main bonding jumper sized in accordance with 250.28(D) or the equivalent placed within the panelboard or one of the sections of the switchboard or switchgear for connecting the grounded service conductor on its supply side to the switchboard, switchgear, or panelboard frame. All sections of a switchboard or switchgear shall be bonded together using an equipment bonding conductor or supply-side bonding jumper sized in accordance with 250.122 or 250.102(C)(1) as applicable.

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Organization: NEMA

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Submittal Date: Fri Jul 17 10:35:58 EDT 2015


795 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


408.51 Busbars.

Insulated or bare busbars shall be rigidly mounted installed and torqued per the listing and installation requirements .


I feel tha the term "rigidly mounted" is non-enforceable and the language I have provided is better understood to the installer and the electrical inspector.

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Submitter Full Name: Joseph Wages

Organization: International Association of E

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Submittal Date: Mon Jul 20 08:32:10 EDT 2015


797 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


408.54 Maximum Number of Overcurrent Devices.

A panelboard or switchboard shall be provided with physical means to prevent the installation of more overcurrent devices thanthat number for which the panelboard was designed, rated, and listed.

For the purposes of this section, a 2-pole circuit breaker or fusible switch shall be considered two overcurrent devices; a 3-polecircuit breaker or fusible switch shall be considered three overcurrent devices.


The resolution stated "Since switchboards are generally larger than panelboards this additional requirement is not necessary or practical as switchboards are judged on adequacy of wiring space not number of circuits."

My original substantiation cited the "six-main" rule. If a main-lug-only switchboard is used for service-entrance purposes, ref. 230.71, the maximum number of disconnects allowed is six. In that case, the switchboard will be manufactured to exclude more than six sets of fuses or circuit breakers the same as would a panelboard used for a like purpose. The volume of the switchboard has nothing to do with the requirement. The mandate of the NEC, section 230.71 does. The proposed change causes 408.54 to conform to 230.71.

Additionally, it causes the section to conform to Table 450.3(B), Note 2"2. Where secondary overcurrent protection is required, the secondary overcurrent device shall be permitted to consist of not more than six circuitbreakers or six sets of fuses grouped in one location. Where multiple overcurrent devices are utilized, the total of all the device ratings shall notexceed the allowed value of a single overcurrent device."

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Submitter Full Name: DAVID BREDHOLD

Organization: C&I Engineering

Affilliation: Employee

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Submittal Date: Thu Jul 23 04:52:13 EDT 2015


798 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(B) Over 112 1⁄2 kVA.

Individual dry-type transformers of more than 112 1⁄2 kVA rating shall be installed in a transformer room of fire-resistantconstruction. Unless specified otherwise in this article, the term fire resistant means a construction having a minimum fire ratingof 1 hour.

Exception No. 1: Transformers with Class 155 or higher insulation systems and separated from combustible material by afire-resistant, heat-insulating barrier or by not less than 1.83 m (6 ft) horizontally and 3.7 m (12 ft) vertically.

Exception No. 2: Transformers with Class 155 or higher insulation systems and completely enclosed except for ventilatingopenings.

Informational Note: See ANSI/ASTM E119-2012a 2015 , Method for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials.


Standard date update



Public Comment No. 800-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 110.31(A)(5)]

Public Comment No. 801-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 300.11(B)(1)]

Public Comment No. 804-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 450.42]

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Public Input No. 1728-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 110.31(A)(5)]


Submitter Full Name: Marcelo Hirschler

Organization: GBH International

Street Address:

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Submittal Date: Sun Sep 20 19:42:10 EDT 2015


886 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(A) Indoor Installations.

Indoor installations shall be permitted in accordance with one of the following:

(1) In Type I or Type II buildings, in areas where all of the following requirements are met:

a. The transformer is rated 35,000 volts or less.

b. No combustible materials are stored.

c. A liquid confinement area is provided.

d. The installation complies with all the restrictions provided for in the listing of the liquid.

Informational Note: Such restrictions may include, but are not limited to: maximum pressure of the tank, useof a pressure relief valve, appropriate fuse types and proper sizing of overcurrent protection.

e. With an automatic fire extinguishing system and a liquid confinement area, provided the transformer is rated 35,000volts or less

f. In accordance with 450.26


The Correlating Committee directs that further consideration be provided to the comments expressed in voting on FR 2432.

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887 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(B) Outdoor Installations.

Less-flammable liquid-filled transformers shall be permitted to be installed outdoors, attached to, adjacent to, or on the roof ofbuildings, where installed in accordance with 450.27.

Informational Note No. 1: Installations adjacent to combustible material, fire escapes, or door and window openings mayrequire additional safeguards such as those listed in 450.27.

Informational Note No. 2: Such restrictions may include, but are not limited to: . maximum pressure of the tank, use of apressure relief valve, appropriate fuse types, and proper sizing of overcurrent protection.

Informational Note No. 3: As used in this section, Type I and Type II buildings refers to Type I and Type II buildingconstruction as defined in NFPA 220-2015, Standard on Types of Building Construction. Combustible materials refers tothose materials not classified as noncombustible or limited-combustible as defined in NFPA 220-2015, Standard onTypes of Building Construction.

Informational Note No. 4: See definition of Listed in Article 100.


The CC directs that further consideration be provided to the comments expressed in voting on FR 7515.

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888 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(B) Outdoor Installations.

Less-flammable liquid-filled transformers shall be permitted to be installed outdoors, attached to, adjacent to, or onthe roof of buildings, where installed in accordance with

450.27 .

(1) or (2):

(1) For Type I and Type II buildings, the installation shall comply with all the restrictions provided for in the listing of theliquid.

Informational Note No. 1: Installations adjacent to combustible material, fire escapes, or door and window openings mayrequire additional safeguards such as those listed in 450.27.

Informational Note No. 2: Such restrictions may include, but are not limited to: . maximum pressure of the tank, use of apressure relief valve, appropriate fuse types, and proper sizing of overcurrent protection.

(2) In accordance with 450.27

Informational Note No. 3 1 : As used in this section, Type I and Type II buildings refers to Type I and Type II buildingconstruction as defined in NFPA 220-2015, Standard on Types of Building Construction. Combustible materials refers tothose materials not classified as noncombustible or limited-combustible as defined in NFPA 220-2015, Standard onTypes of Building Construction.

Informational Note No. 4 2 : See definition of Listed in Article 100.


The panel statement on the ballot is in error, as it recapitulates the original substantiation of PI 4666 and is not the statement voted by the panel. Based on comments submitted by CMP members during the Balloting, the correct statement is as follows:

“Transformer fluids are evaluated in accordance with the Standard for Test for Comparative Flammability of Liquids, UL 340. These liquids are evaluated for characteristics such as Flash Point, Fire Point and Dielectric Strength. Many of these liquids also have restrictions, such as maximum tank pressure, use of pressure relief valves, appropriate fuse types and proper sizing of overcurrent protection, which should be part of the installation considerations.”

Additionally, the First Revision that is noted in the record has incorrectly renumbered/reformatted this Subsection. Note that this Comment appears to miss the formatting required to make the requirements as subsections (1) and (2) of 450.23(B).

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Submitter Full Name: ROBERT OSBORNE


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Submittal Date: Mon Aug 24 14:08:34 EDT 2015


889 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


450.42 Walls, Roofs, and Floors.

The walls and roofs of vaults shall be constructed of materials that have approved structural strength for the conditions with aminimum fire resistance of 3 hours. The floors of vaults in contact with the earth shall be of concrete that is not less than 100mm (4 in.) thick, but, where the vault is constructed with a vacant space or other stories below it, the floor shall have approvedstructural strength for the load imposed thereon and a minimum fire resistance of 3 hours. For the purposes of this section,studs and wallboard construction shall not be permitted.

Exception: Where transformers are protected with automatic sprinkler, water spray, carbon dioxide, or halon, construction of1-hour rating shall be permitted.

Informational Note No. 1: For additional information, see ANSI/ASTM E119-2012a 2015 , Method for Fire Tests ofBuilding Construction and Materials.

Informational Note No. 2: A typical 3-hour construction is 150 mm (6 in.) thick reinforced concrete.


Standard date update



Public Comment No. 800-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 110.31(A)(5)]

Public Comment No. 801-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 300.11(B)(1)]

Public Comment No. 803-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 450.21(B)]

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Public Input No. 1728-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 110.31(A)(5)]


Submitter Full Name: Marcelo Hirschler

Organization: GBH International

Street Address:

City:

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Submittal Date: Sun Sep 20 19:44:10 EDT 2015


890 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1421-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 480.6(D) ]

(D) Notification.

The disconnecting means shall be legibly marked in the field. A label with the marking shall be placed in a conspicuous locationnear the battery if a disconnecting means is not provided. The marking shall be of sufficient durability to withstand theenvironment involved and shall include the following:

(1) Nominal battery voltage

(2) Maximum available fault current short circuit current derived from the stationary battery system

(3) Date the fault current calculation was performed of the short circuit current determination

(4) The battery disconnecting means shall be marked in accordance with 110.16.

Informational Note No. 1: Battery equipment suppliers can provide information about short-circuit current on anyparticular battery model.

Informational Note No. 2: The available fault-current marking(s) addressed in 480.6(D)(2) is related to required shortcircuit current ratings of equipment. NFPA 70E-2015, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, providesassistance in determining the severity of potential exposure, planning safe work practices, and selecting personalprotective equipment.


Battery systems are unique when it comes to short circuit current. One cannot approach a rack of batteries and calculate available fault current. Only the battery manufacturer has that information, and they will provide "available short circuit current" not "available fault current."

It is imperative to understand the reason for this marking. When working on batteries, several hazards may exist including shock, arc flash and chemical hazards. When determining the necessary PPE for exposure to the arc flash hazard, the table method is the most widely used method as labeled systems are not a requirement of federal regulation or installation codes. When using the table method in 130.7(C)(15)(B), the user needs the "available short circuit current."

The NEC Correlating Committee has appointed a task group to address the use of the terms "available short circuit current" and "available fault current." That work will be submitted for the 2020 edition of the NEC. In this case, the correct term is "available short circuit current." Ask any battery manufacturer what value they supply. We need to get this right.

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First Revision No. 3643-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 480.6(D)]


Submitter Full Name: James Dollard

Organization: IBEW Local Union 98

Street Address:

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898 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1476-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 480.6(D) ]

(D) Notification.

The disconnecting means shall be legibly marked in the field. A label with the marking shall be placed in a conspicuous locationnear the battery if a disconnecting means is not provided. The marking shall be of sufficient durability to withstand theenvironment involved and shall include the following:

(1) Nominal battery voltage

(2) Maximum available fault available short-circuit current derived from the stationary battery system

(3) Date the fault the short-circuit current calculation was performed

(4) The battery disconnecting means shall be marked in accordance with 110.16.

Informational Note No. 1: Battery equipment suppliers can provide information about short-circuit current on anyparticular battery model.

Informational Note No. 2: The available fault short -circuit current marking(s) addressed in 480.6(D)(2) is related torequired short circuit current ratings of equipment. NFPA 70E-2015, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace,provides assistance in determining the severity of potential exposure, planning safe work practices, and selectingpersonal protective equipment.


The term short-circuit current is typically more suitable for the intended use in this section. Battery manufacturers commonly use the term short-circuit current for the information needed in this section.

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First Revision No. 3643-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 480.6(D)]


Submitter Full Name: TIMOTHY CRNKO

Organization: EATON, Bussmann Division

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899 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Comment No. 1263-NFPA 70-2015 [ Section No. 480.9(E) ]

(E) Egress.

A personnel door(s) intended for entrance to, and egress from, rooms designated as battery rooms shall open in the direction ofegress and shall be equipped with listed and labeled panic hardware.



Essential_Guide_to_Product_Testing_and_Certification_NOV_2014.pdf

ETL Essential Guide to Product Testing & Certification 2014/2015 North American Edition. Please review document page numbers 5, 8 and 10 to see that ETL has requirements similar to UL, that products that do not bear their certification (listed) mark are not considered by ETL as being listed.


UL recognizes the Correlating Committee created a global First Correlating Revision (FCR) which directed that in all locations where the term “and labeled” was added after “listed” during the First Revision Stage, the words “and labeled” after “listed” be deleted, returning to previous text. UL understands that the Correlating Committee appointed a task group to address several issues involving the use of the terms “listed” and “labeled,” most importantly, to clarify and establish a distinction between the terms “listed” and “labeled” which are often used interchangeably. UL supports the need for this task group. However, UL does not expect the work of this task group to affect the 2017 NEC regarding the issue of “listed and labeled.” As such, UL is submitting comments to request that the words “and labeled” be added in various locations throughout the Code for the reasons expressed in the public inputs UL submitted on this issue. UL believes that these revisions will address an ongoing problem that should not wait until the 2020 NEC for resolution.

Subsequent to the Public Input Code Panel Meetings, UL has discussed this issue with its Electrical Council whose membership includes many AHJs. The proposed revisions to the NEC received general support from the membership. This issue was also discussed at a NEMA – NRTLs Forum held on August 14, 2015 at NEMA Headquarters. UL reiterated its support for the proposed revisions. The NRTLs represented at the meeting voiced no objection to the proposals.

The rationale for the revision was simple, to provide information to the AHJ regarding the suitability of equipment they encounter. The mark on the product is the manufacturer’s attestation that the product is in compliance with the appropriate standard. NRTL’s conduct factory surveillance of products, surveillance is one method to validate the manufacturer’s attestation. Should a product be found not to be compliant the manufacturer has the option of removing the mark and shipping the product without the mark, or holding the shipment and bringing the product into compliance. In either case the “Listing” is not impacted, as the “listing” is created at the completion of the “original” certification of the product and indicates the authorization but not the mandate to label products. So the only true way an AHJ can determine whether the product he is seeing is compliant with the applicable standard is via a label on the product. Taking it one step further, listings change with time. It is quite possible that a “listing” has been withdrawn; however labeled product may still be available for sale. Should equipment that is labeled, but not listed, be deemed acceptable? Based on the NEC definitions, it is possible to have a product that meets the Article 100 definition of listed but the testing organization made the manufacture remove the label for a non-compliance issue.

As for the concerns of products that are too small to be labeled, the definition of labeled is not limited to an actual label, it also includes symbols, or other identifying marks. The Safety Standards which define the listing requirements do not address labeling of products as defined by Article 100. As a general rule, NRTL’s do not consider a product as being listed unless it is also labeled. The UL White Book states that “Only those products bearing the appropriate UL Mark and the company's name, trade name, trademark or other authorized identification should be considered as being covered by UL's Certification, Listing, Classification and Follow-Up Service. The UL Mark provides evidence of listing or labeling, which may be required by installation codes or standards.” Again the requirements for the UL Mark are not a Safety Standard requirement, they are a UL requirement and the only way to show that a product is UL Certified (Listed); other NRTL’s have similar requirements.

Related Item

First Revision No. 3648-NFPA 70-2015 [Section No. 480.9(E)]

Public Input No. 912-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 480.9(E)]


Submitter Full Name: JEFFREY FECTEAU

Organization: UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES LLC

Affilliation: UL


900 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

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Public Comment No. 1042-NFPA 70-2015 [ Article 490 ]

Article 490 Equipment Over 1000 1500 Volts, Nominal

Part I. General

490.1 Scope.

This article covers the general requirements for equipment operating at more than 1000 1500 volts, nominal.

Informational Note No. 1: See NFPA 70E-2015, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, for electrical safetyrequirements for employee workplaces.

Informational Note No. 2: For further information on hazard signs and labels, see ANSI Z535.4-1998, Product Signs andSafety Labels.

490.2 Definition.

High Voltage.

For the purposes of this article, more than 1000 1500 volts, nominal.

490.3 Other Articles.

(A) Oil-Filled Equipment.

Installation of electrical equipment, other than transformers covered in Article 450, containing more than 38 L (10 gal) offlammable oil per unit shall meet the requirements of Parts II and III of Article 450.

(B) Enclosures in Damp or Wet Locations.

Enclosures in damp or wet locations shall meet the requirements of 312.2.

Part II. Equipment — Specific Provisions

490.21 Circuit-Interrupting Devices.

(A) Circuit Breakers.

(1) Location.

(a) Circuit breakers installed indoors shall be mounted either in metal-enclosed units or fire-resistant cell-mounted units,or they shall be permitted to be open-mounted in locations accessible to qualified persons only.

(b) Circuit breakers used to control oil-filled transformers in a vault shall either be located outside the transformer vault orbe capable of operation from outside the vault.

(c) Oil circuit breakers shall be arranged or located so that adjacent readily combustible structures or materials aresafeguarded in an approved manner.

(2) Operating Characteristics.

Circuit breakers shall have the following equipment or operating characteristics:

(1) An accessible mechanical or other identified means for manual tripping, independent of control power

(2) Be release free (trip free)

(3) If capable of being opened or closed manually while energized, main contacts that operate independently of the speed ofthe manual operation

(4) A mechanical position indicator at the circuit breaker to show the open or closed position of the main contacts

(5) A means of indicating the open and closed position of the breaker at the point(s) from which they may be operated

(3) Nameplate.

A circuit breaker shall have a permanent and legible nameplate showing manufacturer’s name or trademark, manufacturer’stype or identification number, continuous current rating, interrupting rating in megavolt-amperes (MVA) or amperes, andmaximum voltage rating. Modification of a circuit breaker affecting its rating(s) shall be accompanied by an appropriate changeof nameplate information.


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(4) Rating.

Circuit breakers shall have the following ratings:

(1) The continuous current rating of a circuit breaker shall not be less than the maximum continuous current through thecircuit breaker.

(2) The interrupting rating of a circuit breaker shall not be less than the maximum fault current the circuit breaker will berequired to interrupt, including contributions from all connected sources of energy.

(3) The closing rating of a circuit breaker shall not be less than the maximum asymmetrical fault current into which the circuitbreaker can be closed.

(4) The momentary rating of a circuit breaker shall not be less than the maximum asymmetrical fault current at the point ofinstallation.

(5) The rated maximum voltage of a circuit breaker shall not be less than the maximum circuit voltage.

(B) Power Fuses and Fuseholders.

(1) Use.

Where fuses are used to protect conductors and equipment, a fuse shall be placed in each ungrounded conductor. Two powerfuses shall be permitted to be used in parallel to protect the same load if both fuses have identical ratings and both fuses areinstalled in an identified common mounting with electrical connections that divide the current equally. Power fuses of the ventedtype shall not be used indoors, underground, or in metal enclosures unless identified for the use.

(2) Interrupting Rating.

The interrupting rating of power fuses shall not be less than the maximum fault current the fuse is required to interrupt, includingcontributions from all connected sources of energy.

(3) Voltage Rating.

The maximum voltage rating of power fuses shall not be less than the maximum circuit voltage. Fuses having a minimumrecommended operating voltage shall not be applied below this voltage.

(4) Identification of Fuse Mountings and Fuse Units.

Fuse mountings and fuse units shall have permanent and legible nameplates showing the manufacturer’s type or designation,continuous current rating, interrupting current rating, and maximum voltage rating.

(5) Fuses.

Fuses that expel flame in opening the circuit shall be designed or arranged so that they function properly without hazard topersons or property.

(6) Fuseholders.

Fuseholders shall be designed or installed so that they are de-energized while a fuse is being replaced. A field-appliedpermanent and legible sign, in accordance with 110.21(B), shall be installed immediately adjacent to the fuseholders and shallbe worded as follows:

DANGER — DISCONNECT CIRCUIT BEFORE REPLACING FUSES.

Exception: Fuses and fuseholders designed to permit fuse replacement by qualified persons using identified equipmentwithout de-energizing the fuseholder shall be permitted.

(7) High-Voltage Fuses.

Switchgear and substations that utilize high-voltage fuses shall be provided with a gang-operated disconnecting switch.Isolation of the fuses from the circuit shall be provided by either connecting a switch between the source and the fuses orproviding roll-out switch and fuse-type construction. The switch shall be of the load-interrupter type, unless mechanically orelectrically interlocked with a load-interrupting device arranged to reduce the load to the interrupting capability of the switch.

Exception: More than one switch shall be permitted as the disconnecting means for one set of fuses where the switches areinstalled to provide connection to more than one set of supply conductors. The switches shall be mechanically or electricallyinterlocked to permit access to the fuses only when all switches are open. A conspicuous sign shall be placed at the fusesidentifying the presence of more than one source.

(C) Distribution Cutouts and Fuse Links — Expulsion Type.

(1) Installation.

Cutouts shall be located so that they may be readily and safely operated and re-fused, and so that the exhaust of the fusesdoes not endanger persons. Distribution cutouts shall not be used indoors, underground, or in metal enclosures.

(2) Operation.

Where fused cutouts are not suitable to interrupt the circuit manually while carrying full load, an approved means shall beinstalled to interrupt the entire load. Unless the fused cutouts are interlocked with the switch to prevent opening of the cutoutsunder load, a conspicuous sign shall be placed at such cutouts identifying that they shall not be operated under load.


The interrupting rating of distribution cutouts shall not be less than the maximum fault current the cutout is required to interrupt,including contributions from all connected sources of energy.


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(4) Voltage Rating.

The maximum voltage rating of cutouts shall not be less than the maximum circuit voltage.

(5) Identification.

Distribution cutouts shall have on their body, door, or fuse tube a permanent and legible nameplate or identification showing themanufacturer’s type or designation, continuous current rating, maximum voltage rating, and interrupting rating.

(6) Fuse Links.

Fuse links shall have a permanent and legible identification showing continuous current rating and type.

(7) Structure Mounted Outdoors.

The height of cutouts mounted outdoors on structures shall provide safe clearance between lowest energized parts (open orclosed position) and standing surfaces, in accordance with 110.34(E).

(D) Oil-Filled Cutouts.

(1) Continuous Current Rating.

The continuous current rating of oil-filled cutouts shall not be less than the maximum continuous current through the cutout.


The interrupting rating of oil-filled cutouts shall not be less than the maximum fault current the oil-filled cutout is required tointerrupt, including contributions from all connected sources of energy.

(3) Voltage Rating.

The maximum voltage rating of oil-filled cutouts shall not be less than the maximum circuit voltage.

(4) Fault Closing Rating.

Oil-filled cutouts shall have a fault closing rating not less than the maximum asymmetrical fault current that can occur at thecutout location, unless suitable interlocks or operating procedures preclude the possibility of closing into a fault.

(5) Identification.

Oil-filled cutouts shall have a permanent and legible nameplate showing the rated continuous current, rated maximum voltage,and rated interrupting current.

(6) Fuse Links.

Fuse links shall have a permanent and legible identification showing the rated continuous current.

(7) Location.

Cutouts shall be located so that they are readily and safely accessible for re-fusing, with the top of the cutout not over 1.5 m (5ft) above the floor or platform.

(8) Enclosure.

Suitable barriers or enclosures shall be provided to prevent contact with nonshielded cables or energized parts of oil-filledcutouts.

(E) Load Interrupters.

Load-interrupter switches shall be permitted if suitable fuses or circuit breakers are used in conjunction with these devices tointerrupt fault currents. Where these devices are used in combination, they shall be coordinated electrically so that they willsafely withstand the effects of closing, carrying, or interrupting all possible currents up to the assigned maximum short-circuitrating.

Where more than one switch is installed with interconnected load terminals to provide for alternate connection to differentsupply conductors, each switch shall be provided with a conspicuous sign identifying this hazard.

(1) Continuous Current Rating.

The continuous current rating of interrupter switches shall equal or exceed the maximum continuous current at the point ofinstallation.

(2) Voltage Rating.

The maximum voltage rating of interrupter switches shall equal or exceed the maximum circuit voltage.

(3) Identification.

Interrupter switches shall have a permanent and legible nameplate including the following information: manufacturer’s type ordesignation, continuous current rating, interrupting current rating, fault closing rating, maximum voltage rating.

(4) Switching of Conductors.

The switching mechanism shall be arranged to be operated from a location where the operator is not exposed to energizedparts and shall be arranged to open all ungrounded conductors of the circuit simultaneously with one operation. Switches shallbe arranged to be locked in the open position. Metal-enclosed switches shall be operable from outside the enclosure.

(5) Stored Energy for Opening.

The stored-energy operator shall be permitted to be left in the uncharged position after the switch has been closed if a singlemovement of the operating handle charges the operator and opens the switch.


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(6) Supply Terminals.

The supply terminals of fused interrupter switches shall be installed at the top of the switch enclosure, or, if the terminals arelocated elsewhere, the equipment shall have barriers installed so as to prevent persons from accidentally contacting energizedparts or dropping tools or fuses into energized parts.

490.22 Isolating Means.

Means shall be provided to completely isolate an item of equipment from all ungrounded conductors. The use of isolatingswitches shall not be required where there are other ways of de-energizing the equipment for inspection and repairs, such asdraw-out-type switchgear units and removable truck panels.

Isolating switches not interlocked with an approved circuit-interrupting device shall be provided with a sign warning againstopening them under load. The warning sign(s) or label(s) shall comply with 110.21(B).

An identified fuseholder and fuse shall be permitted as an isolating switch.

490.23 Voltage Regulators.

Proper switching sequence for regulators shall be ensured by use of one of the following:

(1) Mechanically sequenced regulator bypass switch(es)

(2) Mechanical interlocks

(3) Switching procedure prominently displayed at the switching location

490.24 Minimum Space Separation.

In field-fabricated installations, the minimum air separation between bare live conductors and between such conductors andadjacent grounded surfaces shall not be less than the values given in Table 490.24. These values shall not apply to interiorportions or exterior terminals of equipment designed, manufactured, and tested in accordance with accepted national standards.

Table 490.24 Minimum Clearance of Live Parts

Nominal Voltage Rating(kV)

Impulse Withstand, Basic Impulse Level B.I.L(kV)

Minimum Clearance of Live Parts

Phase-to-Phase Phase-to-Ground

Indoors Outdoors Indoors Outdoors

Indoors Outdoors mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in.

2.4–4.16 60 95 115 4.5 180 7 80 3.0 155 6

7.2 75 95 140 5.5 180 7 105 4.0 155 6

13.8 95 110 195 7.5 305 12 130 5.0 180 7

14.4 110 110 230 9.0 305 12 170 6.5 180 7

23 125 150 270 10.5 385 15 190 7.5 255 10

34.5 150 150 320 12.5 385 15 245 9.5 255 10

200 200 460 18.0 460 18 335 13.0 335 13

46 — 200 — — 460 18 — — 335 13

— 250 — — 535 21 — — 435 17

69 — 250 — — 535 21 — — 435 17

— 350 — — 790 31 — — 635 25

115 — 550 — — 1350 53 — — 1070 42

138 — 550 — — 1350 53 — — 1070 42

— 650 — — 1605 63 — — 1270 50

161 — 650 — — 1605 63 — — 1270 50

— 750 — — 1830 72 — — 1475 58

230 — 750 — — 1830 72 — — 1475 58

— 900 — — 2265 89 — — 1805 71

— 1050 — — 2670 105 — — 2110 83

Note: The values given are the minimum clearance for rigid parts and bare conductors under favorable service conditions. Theyshall be increased for conductor movement or under unfavorable service conditions or wherever space limitations permit. Theselection of the associated impulse withstand voltage for a particular system voltage is determined by the characteristics of thesurge protective equipment.


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490.25 Backfeed.

Installations where the possibility of backfeed exists shall comply with (a) and (b), which follow.

(a) A permanent sign in accordance with 110.21(B) shall be installed on the disconnecting means enclosure orimmediately adjacent to open disconnecting means with the following words or equivalent: DANGER — CONTACTS ONEITHER SIDE OF THIS DEVICE MAY BE ENERGIZED BY BACKFEED.

(b) A permanent and legible single-line diagram of the local switching arrangement, clearly identifying each point ofconnection to the high-voltage section, shall be provided within sight of each point of connection.

Part III. Equipment — Switchgear and Industrial Control Assemblies

490.30 General.

Part III covers assemblies of switchgear and industrial control equipment including, but not limited to, switches and interruptingdevices and their control, metering, protection, and regulating equipment where they are an integral part of the assembly, withassociated interconnections and supporting structures. Part III also includes switchgear assemblies that form a part of unitsubstations, power centers, or similar equipment.

490.31 Arrangement of Devices in Assemblies.

Arrangement of devices in assemblies shall be such that individual components can safely perform their intended functionwithout adversely affecting the safe operation of other components in the assembly.

490.32 Guarding of High-Voltage Energized Parts Within a Compartment.

Where access for other than visual inspection is required to a compartment that contains energized high-voltage parts, barriersshall be provided to prevent accidental contact by persons, tools, or other equipment with energized parts. Exposed live partsshall only be permitted in compartments accessible to qualified persons. Fuses and fuseholders designed to enable futurereplacement without de-energizing the fuseholder shall only be permitted for use by qualified persons.

490.33 Guarding of Energized Parts Operating at 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less Within Compartments.

Energized bare parts mounted on doors shall be guarded where the door must be opened for maintenance of equipment orremoval of draw-out equipment.

490.34 Clearance for Cable Conductors Entering Enclosure.

The unobstructed space opposite terminals or opposite raceways or cables entering a switchgear or control assembly shall beapproved for the type of conductor and method of termination.

490.35 Accessibility of Energized Parts.

(A) High-Voltage Equipment.

Doors that would provide unqualified persons access to high-voltage energized parts shall be locked. Permanent signs inaccordance with 110.21(B) shall be installed on panels or doors that provide access to live parts over 1000 volts and shall readDANGER — HIGH VOLTAGE — KEEP OUT.

(B) Control Equipment.

Where operating at 1000 volts, nominal, or less, control equipment, relays, motors, and the like shall not be installed incompartments with exposed high-voltage energized parts or high-voltage wiring, unless either of the following conditions is met:

(1) The access means is interlocked with the high-voltage switch or disconnecting means to prevent the access means frombeing opened or removed.

(2) The high-voltage switch or disconnecting means is in the isolating position.

(C) High-Voltage Instruments or Control Transformers and Space Heaters.

High-voltage instrument or control transformers and space heaters shall be permitted to be installed in the high-voltagecompartment without access restrictions beyond those that apply to the high-voltage compartment generally.

490.36 Grounding.

Frames of switchgear and control assemblies shall be connected to an equipment grounding conductor or, where permitted, thegrounded conductor.

490.37 Grounding of Devices.

The metal cases or frames, or both, such as those of instruments, relays, meters, and instrument and control transformers,located in or on switchgear or control assemblies, shall be connected to an equipment grounding conductor or, where permitted,the grounded conductor.

490.38 Door Stops and Cover Plates.

External hinged doors or covers shall be provided with stops to hold them in the open position. Cover plates intended to be

removed for inspection of energized parts or wiring shall be equipped with lifting handles and shall not exceed 1.1 m2 (12 ft2) inarea or 27 kg (60 lb) in weight, unless they are hinged and bolted or locked.

490.39 Gas Discharge from Interrupting Devices.

Gas discharged during operating of interrupting devices shall be directed so as not to endanger personnel.


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490.40 Visual Inspection Windows.

Windows intended for visual inspection of disconnecting switches or other devices shall be of suitable transparent material.

490.41 Location of Industrial Control Equipment.

Routinely operated industrial control equipment shall meet the requirements of (A) unless infrequently operated, as covered in490.41(B).

(A) Control and Instrument Transfer Switch Handles or Push Buttons.

Control and instrument transfer switch handles or push buttons shall be in a readily accessible location at an elevation of notover 2.0 m (6 ft 7 in.).

Exception: Operating handles requiring more than 23 kg (50 lb) of force shall be located no higher than 1.7 m (66 in.) in eitherthe open or closed position.

(B) Infrequently Operated Devices.

Where operating handles for such devices as draw-out fuses, fused potential or control transformers and their primarydisconnects, and bus transfer and isolating switches are only operated infrequently, the handles shall be permitted to be locatedwhere they are safely operable and serviceable from a portable platform.

490.42 Interlocks — Interrupter Switches.

Interrupter switches equipped with stored energy mechanisms shall have mechanical interlocks to prevent access to the switchcompartment unless the stored energy mechanism is in the discharged or blocked position.

490.43 Stored Energy for Opening.

The stored energy operator shall be permitted to be left in the uncharged position after the switch has been closed if a singlemovement of the operating handle charges the operator and opens the switch.

490.44 Fused Interrupter Switches.

(A) Supply Terminals.

The supply terminals of fused interrupter switches shall be installed at the top of the switch enclosure or, if the terminals arelocated elsewhere, the equipment shall have barriers installed so as to prevent persons from accidentally contacting energizedparts or dropping tools or fuses into energized parts.

(B) Backfeed.

Where fuses can be energized by backfeed, a sign shall be placed on the enclosure door identifying this hazard.

(C) Switching Mechanism.

The switching mechanism shall be arranged to be operated from a location outside the enclosure where the operator is notexposed to energized parts and shall be arranged to open all ungrounded conductors of the circuit simultaneously with oneoperation. Switches shall be lockable in accordance with 110.25.

490.45 Circuit Breakers — Interlocks.

(A) Circuit Breakers.

Circuit breakers equipped with stored energy mechanisms shall be designed to prevent the release of the stored energy unlessthe mechanism has been fully charged.

(B) Mechanical Interlocks.

Mechanical interlocks shall be provided in the housing to prevent the complete withdrawal of the circuit breaker from thehousing when the stored energy mechanism is in the fully charged position, unless a suitable device is provided to block theclosing function of the circuit breaker before complete withdrawal.

490.46 Circuit Breaker Locking.

Circuit breakers shall be capable of being locked in the open position or, if they are installed in a drawout mechanism, thatmechanism shall be capable of being locked in such a position that the mechanism cannot be moved into the connectedposition. In either case, the provision for locking shall be lockable in accordance with 110.25.

490.47 Switchgear Used as Service Equipment.

Switchgear installed as high-voltage service equipment shall include a ground bus for the connection of service cable shieldsand to facilitate the attachment of safety grounds for personnel protection. This bus shall be extended into the compartmentwhere the service conductors are terminated. Where the compartment door or panel provides access to parts that can only bede-energized and visibly isolated by the serving utility, the warning sign required by 490.35(A) shall include a notice that accessis limited to the serving utility or is permitted only following an authorization of the serving utility.

490.48 Substation Design, Documentation, and Required Diagram.


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(A) Design and Documentation.

Substations shall be designed by a qualified licensed professional engineer. Where components or the entirety of the substationare listed by a qualified electrical testing laboratory, documentation of internal design features subject to the listing investigationshall not be required. The design shall address but not be limited to the following topics, and the documentation of this designshall be made available to the authority having jurisdiction.

(1) Clearances and exits

(2) Electrical enclosures

(3) Securing and support of electrical equipment

(4) Fire protection

(5) Safety ground connection provisions

(6) Guarding live parts

(7) Transformers and voltage regulation equipment

(8) Conductor insulation, electrical and mechanical protection, isolation, and terminations

(9) Application, arrangement, and disconnection of circuit breakers, switches, and fuses

(10) Provisions for oil filled equipment

(11) Switchgear

(12) Surge arresters

(B) Diagram.

A permanent, single-line diagram of the switchgear shall be provided in a readily visible location within the same room orenclosed area with the switchgear, and this diagram shall clearly identify interlocks, isolation means, and all possible sources ofvoltage to the installation under normal or emergency conditions and the marking on the switchgear shall cross-reference thediagram.

Exception: Where the equipment consists solely of a single cubicle or metal-enclosed unit substation containing only one setof high-voltage switching devices, diagrams shall not be required.

Part IV. Mobile and Portable Equipment

490.51 General.

(A) Covered.

The provisions of this part shall apply to installations and use of high-voltage power distribution and utilization equipment that isportable, mobile, or both, such as substations and switch houses mounted on skids, trailers, or cars; mobile shovels; draglines;cranes; hoists; drills; dredges; compressors; pumps; conveyors; underground excavators; and the like.

(B) Other Requirements.

The requirements of this part shall be additional to, or amendatory of, those prescribed in Articles 100 through 725 of thisCode. Special attention shall be paid to Article 250.

(C) Protection.

Approved enclosures or guarding, or both, shall be provided to protect portable and mobile equipment from physical damage.

(D) Disconnecting Means.

Disconnecting means shall be installed for mobile and portable high-voltage equipment according to the requirements of PartVIII of Article 230 and shall disconnect all ungrounded conductors.

490.52 Overcurrent Protection.

Motors driving single or multiple dc generators supplying a system operating on a cyclic load basis do not require overloadprotection, provided that the thermal rating of the ac drive motor cannot be exceeded under any operating condition. Thebranch-circuit protective device(s) shall provide short-circuit and locked-rotor protection and shall be permitted to be external tothe equipment.

490.53 Enclosures.

All energized switching and control parts shall be enclosed in grounded metal cabinets or enclosures. These cabinets orenclosures shall be marked DANGER — HIGH VOLTAGE — KEEP OUT and shall be locked so that only authorized andqualified persons can enter. The danger marking(s) or label(s) shall comply with 110.21(B). Circuit breakers and protectiveequipment shall have the operating means projecting through the metal cabinet or enclosure so these units can be reset withoutopening locked doors. With doors closed, safe access for normal operation of these units shall be provided.

490.54 Collector Rings.

The collector ring assemblies on revolving-type machines (shovels, draglines, etc.) shall be guarded to prevent accidentalcontact with energized parts by personnel on or off the machine.


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490.55 Power Cable Connections to Mobile Machines.

A metallic enclosure shall be provided on the mobile machine for enclosing the terminals of the power cable. The enclosureshall include terminal connections to the machine frame for the equipment grounding conductor. Ungrounded conductors shallbe attached to insulators or be terminated in approved high-voltage cable couplers (which include equipment groundingconductor connectors) of proper voltage and ampere rating. The method of cable termination used shall prevent any strain orpull on the cable from stressing the electrical connections. The enclosure shall have provision for locking so that only authorizedand qualified persons may open it and shall be marked as follows:

DANGER — HIGH VOLTAGE — KEEP OUT.

The danger marking(s) or label(s) shall comply with 110.21(B).

490.56 High-Voltage Portable Cable for Main Power Supply.

Flexible high-voltage cable supplying power to portable or mobile equipment shall comply with Article 250 and Article 400, PartIII.

Part V. Electrode-Type Boilers

490.70 General.

The provisions of Part V shall apply to boilers operating over 1000 volts, nominal, in which heat is generated by the passage ofcurrent between electrodes through the liquid being heated.

490.71 Electrical Supply System.

Electrode-type boilers shall be supplied only from a 3-phase, 4-wire solidly grounded wye system, or from isolating transformersarranged to provide such a system. Control circuit voltages shall not exceed 150 volts, shall be supplied from a groundedsystem, and shall have the controls in the ungrounded conductor.

490.72 Branch-Circuit Requirements.

(A) Rating.

Each boiler shall be supplied from an individual branch circuit rated not less than 100 percent of the total load.

(B) Common-Trip Fault-Interrupting Device.

The circuit shall be protected by a 3-phase, common-trip fault-interrupting device, which shall be permitted to automaticallyreclose the circuit upon removal of an overload condition but shall not reclose after a fault condition.

(C) Phase-Fault Protection.

Phase-fault protection shall be provided in each phase, consisting of a separate phase-overcurrent relay connected to aseparate current transformer in the phase.

(D) Ground Current Detection.

Means shall be provided for detection of the sum of the neutral conductor and equipment grounding conductor currents andshall trip the circuit-interrupting device if the sum of those currents exceeds the greater of 5 amperes or 7 1⁄2 percent of the boilerfull-load current for 10 seconds or exceeds an instantaneous value of 25 percent of the boiler full-load current.

(E) Grounded Neutral Conductor.

The grounded neutral conductor shall be as follows:

(1) Connected to the pressure vessel containing the electrodes

(2) Insulated for not less than 1000 volts

(3) Have not less than the ampacity of the largest ungrounded branch-circuit conductor

(4) Installed with the ungrounded conductors in the same raceway, cable, or cable tray, or, where installed as openconductors, in close proximity to the ungrounded conductors

(5) Not used for any other circuit

490.73 Pressure and Temperature Limit Control.

Each boiler shall be equipped with a means to limit the maximum temperature, pressure, or both, by directly or indirectlyinterrupting all current flow through the electrodes. Such means shall be in addition to the temperature, pressure, or both,regulating systems and pressure relief or safety valves.

490.74 Bonding.

All exposed non–current-carrying metal parts of the boiler and associated exposed metal structures or equipment shall bebonded to the pressure vessel or to the neutral conductor to which the vessel is connected in accordance with 250.102, exceptthe ampacity of the bonding jumper shall not be less than the ampacity of the neutral conductor.


The construction and requirements in this article appropriately describe installations of systems and equipment rated 2500 volts and above. Setting the scope at 1000 volts is inappropriate and constrains the extension of general low voltage product standards to higher voltages since the standards requirements intend to facilitate compliance with the NEC. The development of 1500 volt rated equipment such as circuit breakers and switches for photovoltaic systems demonstrate that the product standards can address the safety aspects


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associated with extending the voltage ratings to this level.

Related Item

Public Input No. 3181-NFPA 70-2014 [Article 490]




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:



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490.1 Scope.

This article covers the general requirements for equipment operating at more than 1000 volts, nominal.

Informational Note No. 1: See NFPA 70E-2015, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, for electrical safetyrequirements for employee workplaces.

Informational Note No. 2: For further information on hazard signs and labels, see ANSI Z535.4-1998 2011 , Product Signsand Safety Labels.


Referenced current edition of ANSI Z535.4.

Related Item



Submitter Full Name: Aaron Adamczyk


Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Thu Jul 09 20:12:39 EDT 2015


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490.30 General.

Part III covers assemblies of switchgear and industrial control equipment including, but not limited to, switches and interruptingdevices and their control, metering, protection, and regulating equipment where they are an integral part of the assembly, withassociated interconnections and supporting structures. Part III also includes switchgear assemblies that form a part of unitsubstations, power centers, or similar equipment.


This Public Comment was developed by a Task Group assigned by the NEC Correlating Committee to: (1) resolve issues with actions taken by Code-making Panels 1 and 8 on proposals and comments in the 2014 NEC cycle relative to changing the voltage threshold in articles under their purview from 600 volts to 1000 volts, (2) address indoor and outdoor electrical substations, and (3) evaluate other higher voltage threshold requirements to be included relative to present trends. Members of the Task Group on Over 600 volts for this Public Comment included: Alan Manche; Donny Cook; Vince Saporita; Paul Barnhart; Eddie Guidry; Alan Peterson; David Kendall; Dave Mercier; Tim Pope; Roger McDaniel and Neil F. LaBrake, Jr..

PI-1535 was resolved with the following panel statement: “Submitter’s substantiation does not address removing the term “unit’ from substation. Unit substations are understood to be an integrated line up of electrical equipment including a disconnect and optional overcurrent device rated above 1,000 Volts, a transformer with primary windings rated over 1,000 Volts and secondary windings rated less than or equal to or greater than 1,000 Volts, and secondary switchgear rated at the transformer’s secondary voltage. The substation is “unitized” as a single line up of metal enclosures, close coupled, with bus or insulated cable connections that are within the metal enclosures.”

It is acknowledged by the Task Group that the previously submitted substantiation lacked a thorough explanation of why the present term “unit substation” should read “substation” only. The High Voltage Task Group requests that Panel 9 reconsider the previous resolution based on the following additional information.

The term “unit substation” is currently found in four sections of the 2014 NEC: 110.31(B)(1), 490.30, 490.48(B)(5)Exception to (1), 490.48(C)Exception. The term “substation” is found in Art. 100 and was revised and moved to Part II (over 1000V) for the 2017 Code cycle.

The terms “substation” and “unit substation” can mean different things to different people depending on the voltage level, application and installation. And, since the term “unit substation” is not defined in Art. 100 or 490, but “substation” is, it is believed that removing the word “unit” would clarify the meaning of this term.

The Task Group requests that CMP 9 consider that product certification encompasses a much broader of the term “unit substation” than the description included in the panel statement in response to PI-1535. Without a separate, clear NEC definition in Article 490, that excludes other equipment which are currently listed by product certification bodies as “unit substations”, use of the term “unit substation” could lead to confusion for the user or inspection authority.

Please consider that UL Information Guide YEFR contains information for unit substations less than 600V. And, UL 1062 is the standard for low voltage unit substations, and contains the following definition: UNIT SUBSTATION - A transformer in combination with primary or secondary overcurrent protective devices or switching devices housed in a single enclosure.

Also consider, UL Information Guide YEFV contains information for unit substations for medium voltage applications. With respect to unit substations over 600V, the YEFV guide information discusses articulated and integral unit substations. The definitions of these two types of unit substations are included in the guide information as follows:Articulated Unit Substations consist of a transformer section(s) together with an input section(s), an output section(s), or both. Transition sections may also be provided. These unit substations are designed, coordinated and assembled as multiple self-enclosed pieces of equipment intended for connection in the field.Integral Unit Substations consist of a transformer section(s) together with an input section(s), an output section(s), or both. Transition sections may also be provided. These unit substations are designed, coordinated and assembled as a single self-enclosed piece of equipment. Sections may be shipped separately.Note that the definition of articulated units does not state that they are a line-up of equipment that is close-coupled, but because it says “designed, coordinated, and assembled…” one might believe this means a line-up. But, conceivably they could be assembled in some other format (such as back to back, with a busway between them, or other configuration).

Integral unit substations are in a single enclosure or a single piece of equipment that may be multiple sections.

In addition to product certification misunderstandings, the term “unit substation” is used widely throughout the petrochemical industry to indicate that the substation is part of a process unit further adding to the confusion as to what the term “unit substation” means in Art. 490.

Removing the word “unit” will result in clearer and more accurate Code language for the user.


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Submitter Full Name: ALAN MANCHE


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913 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM


(B) Diagram.

A permanent, single-line diagram of the switchgear shall be provided in a readily visible location within the same room orenclosed area with the switchgear, and this diagram shall clearly identify interlocks, isolation means, and all possible sources ofvoltage to the installation under normal or emergency conditions and the marking on the switchgear shall cross-reference thediagram.

Exception: Where the equipment consists solely of a single cubicle or metal-enclosed unit substation containing only one setof high-voltage switching devices, diagrams shall not be required.


This Public Comment was developed by a Task Group assigned by the NEC Correlating Committee to: (1) resolve issues with actions taken by Code-making Panels 1 and 8 on proposals and comments in the 2014 NEC cycle relative to changing the voltage threshold in articles under their purview from 600 volts to 1000 volts, (2) address indoor and outdoor electrical substations, and (3) evaluate other higher voltage threshold requirements to be included relative to present trends. Members of the Task Group on Over 600 volts for this Public Comment included: Alan Manche; Donny Cook; Vince Saporita; Paul Barnhart; Eddie Guidry; Alan Peterson; David Kendall; Dave Mercier; Tim Pope; Roger McDaniel and Neil F. LaBrake, Jr..

The Task Group requests that Panel 9 reconsider the previous resolution based on the following additional information.

PI-1541 was resolved with the following panel statement: “Unit substations are understood to be an integrated line up of electrical equipment including a disconnect and optional overcurrent device rated above 1,000 Volts, a transformer with primary windings rated over 1,000 Volts and secondary windings rated less than or equal to or greater than 1,000 Volts, and secondary switchgear rated at the transformer’s secondary voltage. The substation is “unitized” as a single line up of metal enclosures, close coupled, with bus or insulated cable connections that are within the metal enclosures.”

The term “unit substation” is currently found in four sections of the 2014 NEC: 110.31(B)(1), 490.30, 490.48(B)(5)Exception to (1), 490.48(C)Exception. The term “substation” is found in Art. 100 and was revised and moved to Part II (over 1000V) for the 2017 Code cycle.

The terms “substation” and “unit substation” can mean different things to different people depending on the voltage level, application and installation. And, since the term “unit substation” is not defined in Art. 100 or 490, but “substation” is, it is believed that removing the word “unit” would clarify the meaning of this term.

The Task Group requests that CMP 9 consider that product certification encompasses a much broader of the term “unit substation” than the description included in the panel statement in response to PI-1535. Without a separate, clear NEC definition in Article 490, that excludes other equipment which are currently listed by product certification bodies as “unit substations”, use of the term “unit substation” could lead to confusion for the user or inspection authority.

Please consider that UL Information Guide YEFR contains information for unit substations less than 600V. And, UL 1062 is the standard for low voltage unit substations, and contains the following definition: UNIT SUBSTATION - A transformer in combination with primary or secondary overcurrent protective devices or switching devices housed in a single enclosure.

Also consider, UL Information Guide YEFV contains information for unit substations for medium voltage applications. With respect to unit substations over 600V, the YEFV guide information discusses articulated and integral unit substations. The definitions of these two types of unit substations are included in the guide information as follows:Articulated Unit Substations consist of a transformer section(s) together with an input section(s), an output section(s), or both. Transition sections may also be provided. These unit substations are designed, coordinated and assembled as multiple self-enclosed pieces of equipment intended for connection in the field.Integral Unit Substations consist of a transformer section(s) together with an input section(s), an output section(s), or both. Transition sections may also be provided. These unit substations are designed, coordinated and assembled as a single self-enclosed piece of equipment. Sections may be shipped separately.Note that the definition of articulated units does not state that they are a line-up of equipment that is close-coupled, but because it says “designed, coordinated, and assembled…” one might believe this means a line-up. But, conceivably they could be assembled in some other format (such as back to back, with a busway between them, or other configuration).

Integral unit substations are in a single enclosure or a single piece of equipment that may be multiple sections.

In addition to product certification misunderstandings, the term “unit substation” is used widely throughout the petrochemical industry to indicate that the substation is part of a process unit further adding to the confusion as to what the term “unit substation” means in Art. 490.

Removing the word “unit” will result in clearer and more accurate Code language for the user.

Related Item


914 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

Public Input No. 1541-NFPA 70-2014 [Section No. 490.48(B)]


Submitter Full Name: ALAN MANCHE


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City:

State:

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915 of 2079 10/1/2015 11:02 AM

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