The 2007 National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) is now available through the IEEE. The updated code offers practical guidance on safeguarding employees and the public when electrical supply and communication lines are designed, installed, operated, and maintained.
The code is updated every five years to reflect changes in the electrical and communications industries.
In addition to the new version of the code, the IEEE is also offering the "NESC Handbook, Sixth Edition," a companion to the code that gives users insight into its rules and how to apply them. The IEEE also provides a variety of NESC resources online via the organization's National Electrical Safety Code Zone.
According to the IEEE, the NESC is a performance code that takes a consistent approach to the safety of overhead and underground electrical supply lines, power-related telephone and cable TV lines, and rail power and signal installations. A comprehensive document, the code covers all relevant topics including grounding, rotating equipment, storage batteries, transformers, conductors and circuit breakers, as well as switchgear, clearances, cable terminations, safety signs, protective clothing, and ladders.
The 2007 code includes changes and updates in areas including: rounding numbers found in the rules; metal grounding poles; starting voltages and clearances; grounding and insulation for guys; clearances between transmission lines; multiplex cable attachment to neutral brackets; loading due to freezing rain and wind; fiber-reinforced polymer elements; worker loads; equipment bonding; arc exposure analysis; and antenna radiation exposure limits
Additionally, the 2007 code includes new appendices on loading and conductor movement, extreme wind loading, and maximum over-voltage at a worksite.
The "NESC Handbook, Sixth Edition" is edited by Allen Clapp, who for 35 years has been involved in aiding with the code's creation. The handbook contains commentary clarifying the code and its requirements so that users can apply the work rules it contains to actual situations. The book also details how the 2007 code differs from the 2002 version and what this means for users. The handbook was developed for people in the electric and communication industries, including those involved in system design, construction, maintenance, inspection, standards development, and worker training.
The IEEE's National Electrical Safety Code Zone covers NESC Committee activities and provides the latest interpretations and developments in the code. The site also addresses NESC-related products and services, provides links to news sites dedicated to NESC coverage, and answers frequently asked questions about the code. The site also features an interactive area for comments and questions, and offers a subscription to "NESC Update," an e-newsletter covering current NESC developments and industry applications.
The IEEE is the secretariat for the NESC; the organization provides a home for the NESC Committee and supports its activities with a range of administrative, logistical, publishing, and other services. The IEEE also offers user support in obtaining, understanding, and working with the code.
The 2007 NESC, the NESC Handbook, and related products can be obtained at http://shop.ieee.org/ieeestore/.