Chapter 3 of the National Electrical Code provides rules related to wiring methods and materials, specifically the electrical wiring of branch circuits and feeders installed in premises wiring systems. Article 300 provides the general requirements while the other articles contain rules specifically related to wiring methods. How well do you know Chapter 3?
Data centers and wireless networks are two of the largest and fastest growing fiber optic applications. Both are rapidly evolving to meet customer needs. What’s your knowledge of today’s data centers? Answers are on page 103. To take the quiz electronically, visit ecmag.com.
Two recent emphasis programs that OSHA has initiated are Trench Safety and Fall Protection. These are enforcement strategies designed and implemented at the regional and area office levels. With the recent increase in excavation and fall incidents around the country, let’s review a few important requirements.
Fire Alarm Requirements for Elevators
Life Safety Systems
Aug 16, 2019
| Thomas P. Hammerberg
One of the greatest challenges when installing a fire alarm is determining what you have to do when elevators are installed. Test your knowledge of the fire alarm requirements for elevators in NFPA 72 2019 edition.
Will There Be Enough Room?
National Electrical Code
Aug 16, 2019
| Michael Johnston
Some key general requirements in the National Electrical Code (NEC) address minimum working spaces around equipment, equipment markings and underground conduit installation depths. The authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) has significant interpretation and approval responsibilities. The NEC establishes minimum requirements.
Next month, OSHA will be celebrating Safe + Sound Week, Aug. 12–18, 2019. There are many ways you can participate. Visit www.osha.gov/safeandsoundweek for more information and celebrate your safety successes and efforts at #SafeAndSoundAtWork.
Audible Fire Alarm Notification Appliances
Life Safety Systems
Jun 13, 2019
| Thomas P. Hammerberg
How well do you know the application, design and installation factors for audible fire alarm notification appliances? These are some details that should be known for a more effective fire alarm.
In my May Code Comments column, I wrote about the NEC and NFPA 70E definitions of a “qualified person.” Test your memory and your knowledge of this NEC term in the quiz below.
My previous quiz focused on power meters and how they are used to make basic measurements. To measure loss, you need a test source in addition to a power meter. Are you familiar with the sources used for fiber optic testing? More information on optical power can be found in the Fiber Optics Association Guide at www.thefoa.org/tech/ref/testing/test/power.html.
May is Electrical Safety Month. How well do you know the standards and regulations that keep you safe on the job? To access resources and informational videos related to consumer and workplace electrical safety developed by the Electrical Safety Foundation International, visit ESFI’s website at esfi.org.
Most fiber optic techs are familiar with optical loss test sets, and many use optical time-domain reflectometers, but power meters may not be familiar to all of them. Are you knowledgeable about this instrument?
Working safely with cabling and cords in the electrical industry is a priority for all workers. OSHA has specific requirements for this. Whether it is temporary power cords or permanently installed cables, safety is a must for everyone.
Building and fire codes provide the “when” and “where” of how fire alarm systems are installed. How well do you know the fire alarm requirements of the 2018 International Building Code (IBC)? Here is your opportunity to find out.