NESC

The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC®), published by IEEE, is a standard adopted by various states to regulate the installation, operation, and maintenance of electric supply and communication lines and related equipment. Here are some key points about the NESC:

1. Adoption and Enforcement: The adoption of the NESC varies by state, and where adopted, it becomes enforceable as law, typically through state OSHA organizations. The most current information on which states have adopted the NESC can be found directly from the IEEE website or related publications.

2. Revision Cycle: The NESC is revised every five years to incorporate updates based on advancements in technology, safety practices, and regulatory requirements.

3. 2012 Edition Changes:

   • Arc Hazard: The 2012 edition introduced specific details concerning low-voltage, long-duration arc exposures (less than 1000 volts), potentially using a new method for calculating plasma arcs rather than just radiant heat arcs. This revision may require employers to conduct hazard assessments for these lower voltage scenarios, providing clearer guidelines and tables for compliance.

   • Minimum Approach Distances (MAD): The MAD, which guides safe distances for working near energized power lines, was re-evaluated in the 2012 edition to potentially correct any errors in previous calculations. This ensures that workers maintain safe distances during maintenance activities on live lines.

   • Other Issues: Discussions in the 2012 edition also addressed topics such as the use of non-flame-resistant base layers under flame-resistant outer layers (layering practices), and clarifying the boundaries between NESC guidelines and those of NFPA 70E, which focuses on electrical safety in the workplace.

4. Significance: The NESC provides critical guidelines for ensuring the safety of workers involved in the electricity and communication sectors, covering systems operated by utilities and industrial establishments. It is designed to protect workers from electrical hazards and ensure the reliability and safety of electrical infrastructure.

5. Resources: Detailed information about the NESC, including specific rules and updates, can be accessed through IEEE publications and the IEEE website, where the latest editions and related resources are available for purchase or download.

Understanding and complying with the NESC is essential for ensuring workplace safety and regulatory compliance in the electrical and communications industries, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve standards and practices in these critical sectors.