National Fire Protection Association. 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA Phone: Fax:

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1 National Fire Protection Association 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA Phone: Fax: M E M O R A N D U M TO: Members of Code Making Panel 18 FROM: Jean O Connor DATE: January 19, 2012 SUBJECT: NFPA 70 ROP TC L et t er Ballot (A2013) The ROP letter ballot for NFPA 70, CMP-18 is attached. The ballot is for formally voting on whether or not you concur with the committee s actions on the proposals. Reasons must accompany all negative and abstention ballots. Please do not vote negatively because of editorial errors. However, please bring such errors to my attention for action. Please complete and return your ballot as soon as possible but no later than Friday, February 24, As noted on the ballot form, please return the ballot to NFPA either via to: panel18@nfpa.org or via fax to (617) You may also mail your ballot to the attention of Jean O Connor at NFPA, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA The return of ballots is required by the Regulations Governing Committee Projects. Attachments: Proposals Letter Ballot ROP TC Initial Ballot Cover Memo September 24, 2010

2 18-1 Log #1170q NEC-P18 Russell LeBlanc, The Peterson School In articles 90 through 830, if the wording is not already there, then add the words (or other structure(s)) after the word BUILDING(S) wherever the intent of the requirement is to also include STRUCTURES as well as buildings. There is a flaw in the NEC. The term "building" is used over 1000 times in the NEC, and in most of the cases the words "or other structure" should follow and apply the same requirements to bridges, billboards, towers, tanks, and other structures that are by definition NOT BUILDINGS. One specific example I can use is section Wiring on Buildings. I believe that this section is also intended to be applied structures, but the wording "or other structures" is not in the heading or the paragraph. There are literally thousands of other instances throughout the code that this same problem exists. This can easily be seen by doing an electronic search for the word "building". In some cases the words "or other structure" (or similar wording) are present, but in the vast majority where the requirements should also be applied to structures other than buildings, the wording is not there. The substantiation does not demonstrate a definitive problem exists with the current text. It may not be appropriate to add "or other structures" in all cases Log #921q NEC-P18 Joe Tedesco, Boston, MA The term "adequate" and "adequately" and "inadequately" and "inadequate" should be replaced with terms that can be properly enforced and understood. Terms are not defined and are considered vague and unenforceable per Table in the NEC Style Manaual. They are all "incorrect" 148 times in the NEC. The proposal does not specify where the terms are used nor does it suggest replacement terms Log #2889 NEC-P18 James F. Williams, Fairmont, WV or neon tubing. Systems of illumination utilizing fluorescent lamps, high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, Systems of illumination utilizing fluorescent lamps, high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, or neon tubing. The defined term is referenced in several articles of the NEC: 100 I, 210, 300, 310, 410, 450, 600, In general, Article 100 shall contain definitions of terms that appear in two or more other articles of the. 1

3 18-4 Log #1483 NEC-P18 James F. Williams, Fairmont, WV A lighting system consisting of an isolating power supply, the low voltage luminaires, and associated equipment that are all identified for the use. The output circuits of the power supply are rated for not more than 25 amperes and operate at 30 volts (42.4 volts peak) or less under all load conditions. A lighting system consisting of an isolating power supply, the low voltage luminaires, and associated equipment that are all identified for the use. The output circuits of the power supply are rated for not more than 25 amperes and operate at 30 volts (42.4 volts peak) or less under all load conditions. The defined term is referenced in several articles of the NEC: (4),,, & In general, Article 100 shall contain definitions of terms that appear in two or more other articles of the. Section (4) does not use the term "lighting systems operating at 30 volts or less" and Table uses the term "site lighting systems operating at 30 volts or less." Even using the exposure in Article 680 there is only one article where this term is used and therefore the existing wording is in compliance with Section of the 2011 edition of the NEC Style Manual Log #1482 NEC-P18 James F. Williams, Fairmont, WV A manufactured assembly designed to support and energize luminaires that are capable of being readily repositioned on the track. Its length can be altered by the addition or subtraction of sections of track. A manufactured assembly designed to support and energize luminaires that are capable of being readily repositioned on the track. Its length can be altered by the addition or subtraction of sections of track. The defined term is referenced in several articles of the NEC:,, & In general, Article 100 shall contain definitions of terms that appear in two or more other articles of the. Relocate the definition to Article 100 and revise text to read as follows: A manufactured assembly designed to support and energize luminaires that are capable of being readily repositioned on the track. Its length can be altered by the addition or subtraction of sections of track. The term is modified to reflect the use of the two terms in other locations in the code. 2

4 18-6 Log #1188 NEC-P18 Marcelo M. Hirschler, GBH International A complete lighting unit consisting of a light source such as a lamp or lamps, together with the parts designed to position the light source and connect it to the power supply. It may also include parts to protect the light source or the ballast or to distribute the light. A lampholder itself is not a luminaire. It may also include parts to protect the light source or the ballast or to distribute the light A lampholder itself is not a luminaire. The NFPA Manual of Style requires definitions to be in single sentences. The information provided in the subsequent sentences is not really a part of the definition; it is further information that is best placed in an informational note. Because the NEC is formatted differently from other NFPA standards the CMP uses the NEC Style manual for editorial and administrative requirements. When not specified in this manual the panel complies with the NFPA Manual of Style. In reviewing section of the NEC Style Manual and section of the NFPA Manual of Style no reference to requiring definitions in one sentence exists Log #3350a NEC-P18 Steven R. Montgomery, 2D2C Inc. Add new text to read as follows: Equipment incorporating means to detect certain out of parameter conditions of supply voltage and load current and mitigate, by circuit interruption, the effects of (a) overload within utilization equipment; and (b) over- or under-voltage, that can pose a risk of fire ignition under certain conditions. A definition of an Out of Parameter Circuit Interrupter - Voltage/Current (OPCI-VI) is needed to describe this fire prevention technology presently manufactured by multiple suppliers and under consideration for adoption in several places elsewhere in NFPA 70. Note that sister proposals have been submitted as a new and 406.3(D). Staff Note: This proposal has also been sent to Code-Making Panel 2 for review and action. The definition is not justified because the submitter has not specified how much the parameters must be out of specification to be able to serve as a fire prevention technology. While nothing in the Code would prevent the installation of such a Listed device, no requirement should be in place since there is no fact finding or other scientific study that correlates the amount of out of spec the parameters must be to be consider a fire prevention device. 3

5 18-8 Log #1195 NEC-P18 Marcelo M. Hirschler, GBH International A receptacle is a contact device installed at the outlet for the connection of an attachment plug. A single receptacle is a single contact device with no other contact device on the same yoke. A multiple receptacle is two or more contact devices on the same yoke. A single receptacle is a single contact device with no other contact device on the same yoke. A multiple receptacle is two or more contact devices on the same yoke. The NFPA Manual of Style requires definitions to be in single sentences. The information provided in the subsequent sentences is not really a part of the definition; it is further information that is best placed in an informational note. definition style. Refer to the panel action and statement on Proposal 18-6 which addresses the submitter's issue of 18-9 Log #2619 NEC-P18 Richard D. Gottwald, International Sign Association Add new text to read as follows: A general term for a complete subassembly of parts and devices for field conversion of utilization eguipment. As applied to luminaires, signs and outline lighting for conversion of illumination systems. Extensive upgrades are underway to achieve greater energy efficiency in signs and luminaires by replacing in-place illumination systems with LEDs. This largely encompasses field modification of signs or luminaires. Field modifications of utilization equipment usually require a field evaluation by a qualified electrical testing laboratory. Testing laboratories, such as Underwriter's Laboratories have developed protocols for these field conversions, such that when done within the testing laboratory parameters, do not compromise the safety profile of the listed sign or luminaire. As an example, to ensure that the parts are compatible with the field modification, Underwriters Laboratories requires all the parts for luminaire and sign conversions to be assembled into a that UL labels as. A Code definition will provide a basis for, (1) use of conversion subassemblies, (2) inclusion in applicable ANSI UL standards for producers of the retrofit kits, (3) a basis for AHJs approval of field modified wiring in listed signs and luminaires, and (4) their use by the installer. Revise the submitter's recommendation: Delete the last sentence and revise the remainder to read as follows: A general term for a complete listed subassembly of parts and devices for field conversion of utilization equipment. The inclusion of the word "listed" complies more closely with the panels intent as stated in section and that retrofit kits be listed. Retrofit kits are not unique to luminaires, signs and outline lighting. 4

6 18-10 Log #2135 NEC-P18 Robert Wong, BSafe Electrix, Inc. Add new definitions as follows: A protective assembly is an integral part of a device, such as a receptacle, that, when properly applied, will cut off electrical power to the load when the temperature of the device reaches a preset temperature, at which point no further heat will be generated. Therefore this assembly protects the device, wiring, outlet box and the immediate area surrounding the outlet box, from abnormal heating. The Thermal Protected may consist of one or more sensor elements as an integral or external part of the device. The words Thermally Protected or TP appearing on the device indicate that the device includes a thermal protector. Add new text as follows: 406.4(D)(7) Thermally Protected Receptacles. Thermal Protected Receptacles shall be provided where required elsewhere in the Code. Revise (3) as follows: (3) Except where supplying specific appliances, either 15- or 20-ampere, 125-volt, either single or multiple type, and except for parallel-blade attachment plugs, Thermally Protected Receptacle, or a CO/ALR Receptacle. PROBLEM TO BE RESOLVED: Electrical outlet fires continue to this day to be identified and reported in manufactured - mobile homes. According to the USFA, electrical fires in manufactured-mobile homes claim over 300 American lives and over 1000 injuries each year. Further, over the past years, incidents of such fires in manufactured homes have received the scrutiny of experts, academia researchers, including UL and the Electrical Wiring Device Industry. Such reports are numerous, and a select few reports of fire statistics are referenced in this NEC proposal. Over the past 40 years, a percentage of the electrical receptacle outlet fires each year in manufactured homes have been caused by one or more of the following combination of conditions which occur: improper wiring at first installation - loose wiring connections, and the additional stress caused by the mechanical - vibration disturbance that receptacles in a manufactured home are subjected to during normal use. Other often cited causes of electrical fires are, loose connections between an appliance plugged into receptacles in mobile homes due travel/movement of the mobile home, and lack of adequate space in the mobile home hence many ignitable materials are placed near the loose appliance plugged into the receptacles. These NEC proposals will result in an increased safe use of receptacles in manufactured-mobile homes, thereby reducing future incidents of property damage and loss of life that may occur in an electrical fire, resulting from overheated receptacle outlet/wiring. It is a reality, a fact of life for the future. If these proposed NEC changes are not implemented, electrical receptacle outlet failures and the subsequent electrical fires that in many cases mask their cause and origin, will continue to occur in mobile houses. It is critical for our families' safety that an insidious receptacle overheating condition in a receptacle wall outlet be detected and mitigated prior to ignition of combustible materials in the receptacle outlet or its vicinity. The Receptacle with Thermal Protection and CO/ALR Receptacle are UL Listed devices are presently available in the market place today. UL STANDARD/ NEC BACKGROUND: UL Standard 498, Attachment Plugs and Receptacles, provides safety requirements that only address normal electrical installation conditions, but not under conditions of use. In turn, NEC Article 110.3(A) specifically states in item (5), "Heating effects under normal conditions of use and also under abnormal conditions likely to arise in service", is a consideration that is to be evaluated as a condition as it is "essesntial to safe use or proper functioning of the equipment." SUBSTANTIATION: Improper wiring in electrical wiring installations in manufactured - mobile homes was addressed years ago when aluminum wiring problems were first addressed by UL, NEMA, NBS, and others in the Industry. This fact is explicitly stated in the " " titled, " " (including " In items B and C, in the first paragraph on page 2 of the, it is noted that ". And, in the first paragraph of the, it is stated that " ". 5

7 This " " including the " ", prepared under the auspices of an Ad Hoc Committee sponsored by Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., is provided as an attachment to these proposals. The eleven organizations that served on the Ad Hoc Committee are listed on the last page of the Statement. This collaborative effort by NEMA, NBS, UL, Industry Members including NECA, and IBEW-NECA is testimony to the fact that " does exist in electrical installations with copper wiring in the field today and that overheating of receptacles and snap switches can occur use. Therefore, under Article 110.3(A) Item 5, Abnormal, or improper wiring installations should be considered as "conditions likely to arise in service". Thomas J. D'Agostino, PE, as a Lead Project Engineer at UL ( ) in matters pertaining to connectability of wiring devices with aluminum as well as copper wiring, participated in (a) significant research projects that were the basis for the publication of the, and (b) specifically in the development of the Standard, addresses the "improperly wired - loose binding head screw connection", and vibration, conditions that occur in electrical installations in manufactured - mobile homes, and recreational vehicles. NEC PROPOSALS TO MANDATE THE USE OF THERMAL PROTECTED RECEPTACLES IN NEW MANUFACTURED (MOBILE) HOMES AND WHEN REPLACING RECEPTACLES IN EXISTING MANUFACTURED (MOBILE) HOMES TO ASSURE ADDITIONAL LEVEL OF SAFETY: Receptacles in manufactured mobile homes are subjected to more stringent conditions of abuse, such as vibration or mechanical disturbance due to travel/movement of the mobile home. The distinct performance of a Standard UL498 Listed Receptacle which has not been investigated to "abnormal conditions which might arise in service", as compared to the safer performance of a currently UL Listed Receptacle with Thermal Protection, has been demonstrated in research that has been conducted at Stony Brook University, N.Y. The Stony Brook Report demonstrates that Thermal Protected receptacles successfully cut off (interrupt) power when the temperature increases to a preset range due to loose connections and/or serial arcing. Without Thermal Protected assembly the temperature will continue to rise for an extended time, and easily surpass the allowable temperature for many materials, such as insulation materials. The Stony Brook University Research has clearly demonstrated the need for a higher level of safety - protection in receptacles that are installed in a manufactured - mobile home. The Receptacle with Thermal Protection or CO/ALR Receptacle provides this needed higher level of safety for use in manufactured - mobile homes. The receptacle with thermal protection has been investigated according to UL498 with additional thermal tests, and the CO/ALR Receptacle has been tested to both UL498 and UL1597. This proposal has also been sent to Code-Making Panel 19 for their review and action. Note: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA Headquarters. The submitter has not offered any acceptable scientific study that correlates the temperature cut-out value in a thermally protected receptacle with fire mitigating ability. While nothing in this Code precludes such a device from being installed, no mandate device should be required without a specific value of cut-off that can mitigate fires. The panel recommends the TCC refer this proposal to CMP 19. 6

8 18-10a Log #3235 NEC-P18 Mark C. Ode, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Add new text to read as follows: Article 302 Low Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Distribution Systems. Part I. General Scope. This article covers the installation of low voltage suspended ceiling power distribution systems Definitions. Busbar. A non-insulated conductor electrically connected to the source of supply and physically supported on an insulator providing a power rail for connection to utilization equipment, such as sensors, actuators, A/V devices, low voltage luminaire assemblies and similar electrical equipment. Busbar Support. An insulator that runs the length of a section of suspended ceiling bus rail that serves to support and isolate the busbars from the suspended grid rail. Grid Bus Rail. A combination of the busbar, busbar support, and the structural suspended ceiling grid system. Connector. A term used to refer to an electro-mechanical fitting. Connector, Load. An electro-mechanical connector used for power from the busbar to utilization equipment. Connector, Pendant. An electro-mechanical or mechanical connector used to suspend low voltage luminaire or utilization equipment below the grid rail and to supply power from the busbar to utilization equipment. Connector, Power Feed. An electro-mechanical connector used to connect the power supply to a power distribution cable, to connect directly to the busbar, or from a power distribution cable to the busbar. Connector, Rail to Rail. An electro-mechanical connector used to interconnect busbars from one ceiling grid rail to another grid rail. Low Voltage Suspended Ceiling Power Distribution System. A system that serves as a support for a finished ceiling surface and consists of a busbar and busbar support system to distribute power to utilization equipment supplied by a Class 2 power supply. Power Supply. A Class 2 power supply connected between the branch circuit power distribution system and the busbar low voltage suspended ceiling power distribution system. Rail. The structural support for the suspended ceiling system typically forming the ceiling grid supporting the ceiling tile and listed utilization equipment, such as sensors, actuators, A/V devices and low voltage luminaires similar electrical equipment. Reverse Polarity Protection (Backfeed Protection). A system that prevents two interconnected power supplies connected positive to negative from passing current from one power source into a second power source. Suspended Ceiling Grid. A system which serves as a support for a finished ceiling surface and other utilization equipment Listing Requirements. Suspended ceiling power distribution systems and associated fittings shall be listed as in 302.6(A) or 302.6(B). (A) Listed System. Low voltage suspended ceiling distribution systems operating at 30 volts or less ac or 60 volts dc or less shall be listed as a complete system with the utilization equipment, power supply, and fittings as part of the same identified system. (B) Assembly of Listed Parts. A low voltage suspended ceiling power distribution system assembled from the following parts, listed according to the appropriate function, shall be permitted: (1) Listed low voltage utilization equipment (2) Listed Class 2 power supply (3) Listed or identified fittings, including connectors and grid rails with bare conductors (4) Listed low voltage cables in accordance with , conductors in raceways, or other fixed wiring methods for the secondary circuit. II. Installation Uses Permitted. Low voltage suspended ceiling power distribution systems shall be permanently connected and shall be permitted as follows: (1) For listed utilization equipment capable of operation at a maximum of 30 volts ac (42.4 volts peak) or 60 volts dc (24.8 volts peak for dc interrupted at a rate of 10 to 200 Hz) and limited to Class 2 power levels in Table 11(A) and Table 11(B) for lighting, control, and signaling circuits 7

9 (2) In indoor dry locations (3) For residential, commercial, and industrial installations (4) In other spaces used for environmental air in accordance with (C), electrical equipment having a metal enclosure or with nonmetallic enclosure and fittings, shall be listed for use within an air handling space and, have adequate fire-resistant and low-smoke-producing characteristics, and associated wiring material suitable for the ambient temperature Informational Note: One method of defining adequate fire resistant and low-smoke producing characteristics for electrical equipment with a nonmetallic enclosure is in ANSI/ UL , Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces. (5) For lighting in general or critical patient care areas Uses Not Permitted. Suspended ceiling power distribution systems shall not be installed in the following: (1) In damp or wet locations (2) Where subject to corrosive fumes or vapors, such as storage battery rooms (3) Where subject to physical damage (4) In concealed locations (5) In hazardous (classified) locations (6) As part of a fire-rated floor ceiling or roof-ceiling assembly, unless specifically listed as part of the assembly Installation (A) General Requirements. Support wiring shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner. Cables and conductors installed exposed on the surface of ceilings and sidewalls shall be supported by the building structure in such a manner that the cable is not be damaged by normal building use. Such cables shall be supported by straps, staples, hangers, cable ties, or similar fittings designed and installed so as not to damage the cable. Informational Note: Suspended ceiling low voltage power grid distribution systems should be installed by qualified persons in accordance with the manufacturer s installation instructions. (B) Insulated Conductors. Exposed insulated secondary circuit conductors shall be listed and of the type, and installed as described in (B)(1) or (B)(2): (1) Class 2 cable supplied by a Listed Class 2 power source and installed in accordance with Parts I and III of Article 725 (2) Wiring methods described in Chapter Disconnecting Means. (A) Location. A disconnecting means for the Class 2 supply to the power grid system shall be located so as to be accessible and within sight of the Class 2 power source for servicing or maintenance of the grid system. (B) Multiwire Branch Circuits. Where connected to a multiwire branch circuit, the disconnecting means shall simultaneously break all the supply conductors to the power supply in accordance with 210.4(B) Securing and Supporting. (A) Attached to Building Structure. A suspended ceiling low voltage power distribution system shall be secured to the mounting surface of the building structure by hanging wires, screws, or bolts in accordance with the installation and operation instructions. Mounting hardware, such as screws or bolts, shall either be packaged with the suspended ceiling low voltage lighting power distribution system or the installation instructions shall specify the types of mounting fasteners to be used. (B) Attachment of Power Grid Rails. The individual power grid rails shall be mechanically secured to the overall ceiling grid assembly Connectors and Enclosures. (A) Connectors. Connections to busbar grid rail, cables, and conductors shall be made with listed insulating devices and these connections shall be accessible after installation. A soldered connection shall be made mechanically secure before being soldered. Other means of securing leads, such as push-on terminals and spade-type connectors, shall provide a secure mechanical connection. The following connectors shall be permitted to be used as connection or interconnection devices: (1) Load connectors shall be used for power from the busbar to listed utilization equipment. (2) A pendant connector shall be permitted to suspend low voltage luminaires or utilization equipment below the grid rail and to supply power from the busbar to the utilization equipment. (3) A power feed connector shall be permitted to connect the power supply directly to a power distribution cable and to the busbar. (4) Rail-to-rail connectors shall be permitted to interconnect busbars from one ceiling grid rail to another grid rail. Informational Note: For quick-connect terminals; see UL 310, Standard for Electrical Quick-Connect and for mechanical splicing devices, and see UL 486A and 486B, Standard for Wire Connectors. 8

10 (B) Enclosures. Where made in a wall, connections shall be installed in an enclosure in accordance with Parts I, II and III of Article Overcurrent and Reverse Polarity (Back Feed) Protection. (A) Overcurrent Protection. The listed Class 2 power supply or transformer primary shall be protected at not greater than 20 amperes. (B) Interconnection of Power Sources. Listed Class 2 sources shall not have the output connections paralleled or otherwise interconnected, unless listed for such interconnection. (C) Reverse Polarity (Back Feed) Protection of DC Systems. A suspended ceiling low voltage power distribution system shall be permitted to have reverse polarity (back feed) protection of DC circuits by one of the following means: (1) If the power supply is provided as part of the system, the power supply is provided with reverse polarity (back feed) protection; or (2) If the power supply is not provided as part of the system, reverse polarity or back feed protection can be provided as part of the grid rail busbar or as a part of the power feed connector Splices. A busbar splice shall be provided with insulation and mechanical protection equivalent to that of the grid rail busbars involved Connections. Connections in busbar grid rails, cables, and conductors shall be made with listed insulating devices and be accessible after installation. Where made in a wall, connections shall be installed in an enclosure in accordance with Parts I, II, and III of Article 314, as applicable Grounding. (A) Grounding of Supply Side of Class 2 Power Source. The supply side of the Class 2 power source shall be connected to an equipment grounding conductor in accordance with the applicable requirements in Part IV of Article 250. (B) Grounding of Load Side of Class 2 Power Source. Class 2 load side circuits for suspended ceiling low voltage power grid distribution systems shall not be grounded. III. Construction Specifications Sizes and Types of Conductors (A) Load Side Utilization Conductor Size. Current-carrying conductors for load side utilization equipment shall be copper and shall be 18 AWG minimum. Exception: Conductors of a size smaller than 18 AWG but not smaller than 24 AWG shall be permitted to be used for Class 2 circuits. Where used, these conductors shall be installed in a Chapter 3 wiring method, totally enclosed, shall not be subject to movement or strain, and shall comply with the ampacity requirements in Table (B) Power Feed Bus Rail Conductor Size. The power feed bus rail shall be 16 AWG minimum or equivalent. For a busbar with a circular cross section, the diameter shall be in. (1.29 mm) minimum, and, for other than circular busbars, the area shall be in. 2 (1.32 mm 2 ) minimum. The growing interest in alternative energy sources (e.g. photovoltaics, wind turbines, batteries, fuel cells, etc.) and the proliferation of low voltage, low power devices (sensors, LV lighting, IT equipment, AV equipment, etc.), has created a significant need for adequate language supporting the practical safeguarding of circuits and electrical equipment operating at 30 Volts AC or 60 Volts dc or less. The current code has specific requirements for power distribution at 30 volts or less for listed lighting devices and their associated listed components (as covered by Article 411 with reference to Article 725), but there is no similar requirements for power distribution at 30 volts or less for listed non-lighting systems and their associated listed components. The code is silent on the requirements for power distribution at 30 volts or less when non-lighting and lighting devices are connected in the same 30 volts or less power distribution system. Thus, the current code implies (although it does not specifically demand) that separate power distribution systems must be deployed in order to perform the identical task of low voltage power distribution at 30 volts or less. Due to equipment, wiring and overall system redundancy, this position is likely to be extremely wasteful from both an energy and economy viewpoints. This purposed article provides the specific requirements for the safe installation of low voltage, power limited power distribution, providing power to lighting and non-lighting loads. Drawing largely from Articles 411 and 725 this purposed article slightly expands the scope of these systems with the addition of low voltage/power limited (Class 2) non-lighting loads while maintaining the clear requirements necessary for safe installation. As technology changes, the construction and commercial office industry, as well as the various Codes and Standards affecting the buildings, must respond to provide a safe and reliable method of providing the appropriate flexibility of power for lighting, sensors, temperature control, and other functional aspects of the building. The low voltage grid distribution system is a very viable and important part of this flexible power distribution system. 9

11 This proposal was developed as a part of a larger effort to provide clear and specific requirements in NFPA 70 regarding the use of dc power. There is a growing interest in the use of alternative energy sources (e.g. photovoltaics, wind turbines, batteries, fuel cells, etc.) this coupled with the reality that many of the loads installed ultimately use electricity in its dc form has renewed an interest in dc power and its distribution in buildings. While many parts of the Code cover dc power with specific requirements, other portions are not as clear. This proposal was developed by a subgroup of the NEC DC Task Force of the Technical Correlating Committee. The Task Force is chaired by John R. Kovacik, Underwriters Laboratories, the Subtask Group that developed this proposal consisted of the following people: Panel 3 Chairman Paul Casparro, representing the JATC of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Panel 3; Subtask Group Chairman Wendell Whistler, representing Intertek, Inc. and Panel 3; Lawrence S. Ayer representing Biz Com Electric of the Independent Electrical Contractors Association and Panel 3; Mike O boyle, representing Philips Inc. and Panel 18; Mark C. Ode representing Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and Panel 3; Audi Spina, representing Armstrong Ceiling Inc. and special expert on low voltage ceiling grids; and Randy Wright, representing RKW Consulting and Panel Log #1064 NEC-P18 James A. Gates, J. A. Gates Co. LLC Add new text to read as follows: All v plugs and receptacles to include "ELECTRICAL PLUG ALIGNMENT INDICATORS". People often have difficulty aligning the wide blade side of a plug with the wide blade side of a receptacle. This is especially true for sight challenged people or when a receptacle is out of sight because of darkness or obscured by furniture. This becomes a safety issue with small children whose fingers can fit between the blades of the plug. Electrical plug alignment indicators are small bumps on the wide blade side of the plug and corresponding small bumps on the wide blade side of the receptacles or extension cords. These bumps provide a tactile signal to the user to help align the plug and receptacle without placing their fingers on the plug blades. Note: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA Headquarters. The UL/ANSI Standard requires receptacles to reject the improper insertion of a plug cap. If the plug does not go insert in one orientation, then it will go in when reversed. 10

12 18-12 Log #2704 NEC-P18 Steven Orlowski, National Association of Home Builders Replacement of receptacles shall comply with 406.4(D)(1) through (D)(6), as applicable. Where a receptacle outlet is supplied by a branch circuit that requires arc-fault circuit interrupter protection as specified elsewhere in this, a replacement receptacle at this outlet shall be one of the following: (1) A listed outlet branch circuit type arc-fault circuit interrupter receptacle (2) A receptacle protected by a listed outlet branch circuit type arc-fault circuit interrupter type receptacle (3) A receptacle protected by a listed combination type arc-fault circuit interrupter type circuit breaker This requirement becomes effective January 1, Once again, a new provision requiring an untested and unavailable technology has been introduced into the 2011National Electrical Code. There was a time when manufacturers would have been called out on using the national model code to promote a product or give them a market advantage on a technology that they had the sole capability to produce, sadly this is becoming the norm. This new provision will require an existing receptacle that becomes damaged or simply needs to be replaced with a receptacle that is either protected by AFCI breaker or be a listed AFCI receptacle. Where is the problem with replacing the receptacle with the same type or better yet where is the risk with replacing the receptacle with the same type? At this time only one manufacturer is rumored to have produced a receptacle that meets the code and it is not commercially available. Several comments were submitted during the last cycle, requesting the technical committee to reject this proposal based on the fact that the technology for these devices did not exist, much less that there weren t any devices that had been listed by any testing agency meeting this requirement. Other reasons given by some well respected members of several other technical committees included the fact that many common and acceptable wiring techniques in existing homes could create problems and would be incompatible with an AFCI receptacle or AFCI breakers. For example many existing panelboards cannot accommodate an AFCI breaker. This means if a homeowner needed to replace a single broken receptacle in the home and the AFCI receptacle are still not available, they would then have to replace the entire panelboard and all the associated breakers within the dwelling. Another problem would arise with existing homes that were wired using multiwire branch circuits throughout which cannot be feed by a typical AFCI Breaker. A huge expense to meet a requirement that was not based on any significant technical substation regarding the number of fires or injuries that would be diverted. Until these devices have been rigorously tested not to suffer the same nuisance tripping that the AFCI breakers have and proven to meet the claims made by manufactures, we urge the removal of this requirement from the National Electrical Code. NAHB also urges the NEC code making panels to begin rejecting any and all proposals that would mandate the use of any new technology that does not include a cost benefit analysis in the substantiation. As of this time TWO manufacturers have Listed AFCI receptacles. During the last cycle, Panel 18 postponed the effective date until 2014, therefore commercial devices are not needed at this time. Also, the Coalition of AFCI receptacle manufacturers has demonstrated real devices at the ROP meeting. Section 90.4 of this Code allows the AHJ to revert to the previous Code if the device is unavailable at the time of inspection. 11

13 18-13 Log #3268 NEC-P18 Brian E. Rock, Hubbell Incorporated Revise 406.3(D) main text to read as follows: Receptacles incorporating an isolated grounding conductor connection intended for the reduction of electrical noise (electromagnetic interference) as permitted in (D) shall be identified by an orange triangle located on the face of the receptacle; such identification shall be visible after installation. Although 406.3(D) requires specific marking identification of isolated ground receptacles, the installation requirements in 406.3(D) and (D) make no mention that such identification be visible to the user after installation to coordinate with installation and use instructions of plug-and-cord-connected Listed instrumentation and equipment to comply with 110.3(B). The current wording of this section clearly states "shall be identified by an orange triangle located on the face of the receptacle." It does not seem possible that a receptacle can be installed where the face is not visible. 12

14 18-14 Log #3357 NEC-P18 Steven R. Montgomery, 2D2C Inc. Add new text to read as follows: Out of Parameter Circuit Interrupter - Voltage/Current (OPCI-VI) protected receptacles shall be provided where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be so protected elsewhere in this. Resistive heating and arcing faults ignite most of the major residential electrical fires. Resistive heating faults ignite 59% of the fires, in spite of branch circuit over-current protection (see Electrical Ignition Causes of Fires in Ontario , Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) report, 2008). The latest code enhancements, including Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (per UL Std. 1699), are not designed to protect against resistive heating from current flowing through poor branch circuit connections (high resistance points), overloaded appliances and open neutral conditions. New homes may have aged and potentially faulty appliances, extension cords and lighting fixtures brought in by homeowners. The 2006 NFPA report titled Selected Residential Electrical Fires indicates these faults have resulted in numerous fire fatalities. Out of Parameter Circuit-Interrupter (OPCI-VI) technology is designed to provide primary protection against resistive heating ignition mechanisms including high resistance points in branch circuit wiring (cause of 23% of residential electrical fires, per the attached ESA 2008 report), appliance overloads (cause of 17% of the electrical fires), and open neutral conditions (cause of 2% of the electrical fires). OPCI-VI also provides supplementary protection against overloaded circuits (cause of 7% of the electrical fires) and insulation damage that leads to arc tracking (cause of 7% of the electrical fires). A large portion of residential electrical ignitions are caused by resistive heating that cannot be protected by branch circuit overcurrent devices but can be protected by OPCI-VI. OPCI-VI technology has been previously referred to as Electrical Fault Circuit Interrupter (EFCI), which is itself formerly known as the combination of Overload Fault Circuit Interrupter (OFCI) and Power Fault Circuit Interrupter (PFCI) technologies. Some previous documentation refers to the old nomenclature. OPCI-VI protection must be located at the junction between the load and branch circuit wiring to detect these faults and cannot be located at the panelboard. OPCI-VI technology is a superior approach compared all relevant alternatives. (see Alternatives to Electrical Fault Circuit Interrupter (EFCI) Technology, Wayne Hartill, 2D2C Inc., 2008.) Two Fact Finding Reports from independent NRTL s substantiate the performance of OPCI-VI technology. (see Descriptive Report and Test Results, Todd Hamden, CSA International, Feb 2006 & Descriptive Report and Test Results, Intertek Testing Services NA Ltd., Jan 2006). A third NRTL Fact Finding Report has been request from Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Products containing OPCI-VI technology have NRTL certification against UL 498 and UL 498A standards and have been available for sale in the marketplace since Multiple producers of OPCI-VI technology exist in the marketplace. With a mandate more producers will likely enter the marketplace. A mandate of OPCI-VI technology is required because the net safety benefit to society is far greater than that of voluntary sales alone. Please review submitted letters of support from the following fire forensics experts including: Vytenis Babrauskas, Ph.D., President of Fire Science and Technology Inc. and author of the Ignition Handbook. John S. Robison, President of Robison Forensic Consulting, previously Alabama State Fire Marshal, and previous President of International Fire Marshals Association. Chris W Korinek, P.E., President of Synergy Technologies and author of Chapter 10 of Kirks Fire Investigation book. Doug Crawford, Deputy Fire Marshal of the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal. Note that sister proposals have been submitted as a new 100 and

15 As of this time no UL/ANSI standard exists that correlates the parameters in question with fire mitigating ability. Nothing in this Code precludes the use of such a listed device Log #748 NEC-P18 Vince Baclawski, National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Add new text to read as follows: All nonlocking-type, 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles that are controlled by an automatic control device or incorporate control features that remove power from the outlet for the purpose of energy management or building automation shall be marked with the symbol shown below placed on the controlled receptacle outlet where visible after installation. ******Insert Figure 406.3(E) Here****** New energy management codes that are currently being widely adopted such as ASHRAE 90.1 require that up to 50% of 125 volt 15 and 20 ampere receptacles be automatically controlled. The control could be an energy management system, timer or sensor. The occupant or end user needs to know which receptacle outlets will be automatically controlled to avoid plug-in appliances or other loads from being unintentionally turned on or off. Previous automated systems typically control identified loads such as lighting or HVAC and the consequences are known and understood. The uncertainty of what is plugged into a controlled receptacle outlet can raise concerns regarding safety as well as convenience thus it is important to be able to readily identify receptacle outlets that will be automatically powered on and off. 14

16 18-16 Log #147 NEC-P18 Ronald Deering, City of Portage Add new text to read as follows: All 15 and 20 ampere duplex receptacles, being installed and connected to branch circuit conductors, shall be installed using a side termination method, utilizing a set-screw that is firmly seated over a conductor wrapped clockwise around the screw head, or a screw head firmly seated after a conductor has been installed into a listed side-wired receptacle. Please accept this statement of a problem that has concerned me since I began working in the trade in As an apprentice, I had been trained by more than one electrical contractor, to be concerned that the stab-in feature of receptacles was a safety concern. The electrical contractor was concerned for his customer's safety, yes, but also was looking out for his business. He did not want to send his employees out on a costly repair, nor did he want his reputation ruined by an electrical contractor who just a year later was called to this new home to re-wire the devices, once one had quit working. As an electrical inspector, I have found that the stab-in feature, especially when conductors are installed in series, has become a common occurrence. Electrical contractors treat this repair as if they were simply correcting a poorly installed wire-nut or correcting a fault caused by a loose device that has slid to one side or the other of a steel box, causing a fault condition. The repair is not documented, as a traffic accident would be and the device tossed aside. Therefore, it is impossible to come up with piles of documentation to support the argument. The fact that it is such a common occurrence that is not documented, makes this unsafe condition an issue that may never be addressed. When questioning electricians, I find every single one has several stories to tell. I have been sending contractor s to my NEMA representative and the NFPA, as the contractor finds the time to do so, with the hope that committee members might be able to enlighten the electrical Industry of an age old issue. I think the problem is primarily a manufacturer issue, but in light of my NEMA representative's recommendation, I submit this as a proposal. I hope that at the very least, the electrical industry's awareness of the problem can be raised. As of this time UL/ANSI standard 498 allows the back-wire push-in connection. No UL/ANSI proposal has been accepted that removes this Listed termination method. 15

17 18-17 Log #2082 NEC-P18 Phil Simmons, Simmons Electrical Services Receptacle outlets shall be located in branch circuits in accordance with Part III of Article 210. General installation requirements shall be in accordance with 406.4(A) through (F). Except as provided in (D), receptacles installed on 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits shall be of the grounding type. Grounding-type receptacles shall be installed only on circuits of the voltage class and current for which they are rated, except as provided in Table (B)(2) and Table (B)(3). Receptacles and cord connectors that have equipment grounding conductor contacts shall have those contacts connected to an equipment grounding conductor. The equipment grounding conductor contacts of receptacles and cord connectors shall be grounded by connection to the equipment grounding conductor of the circuit supplying the receptacle or cord connector. Informational Note: For installation requirements for the reduction of electrical noise, see (D). The branch-circuit wiring method shall include or provide an equipment grounding conductor to which the equipment grounding conductor contacts of the receptacle or cord connector are connected. Informational Note No. 1: See for acceptable grounding means. Informational Note No. 2: For extensions of existing branch circuits, see Replacement of receptacles shall comply with 406.4(D)(1) through (D)(6), as applicable. Where a grounding means exists in the receptacle enclosure or an equipment grounding conductor is installed in accordance with (C), grounding-type receptacles shall be used and shall be connected to the equipment grounding conductor in accordance with 406.4(C) or (C). Grounding-type receptacles shall be installed at locations specified in and if required in the installation instructions provided by the equipment or appliance manufacturer. At locations other than provided in (D)(1) and where attachment to an equipment grounding conductor does not exist in the receptacle enclosure, the installation shall comply with (D)(2)(a), (D)(2)(b), or (D)(2)(c). (a) A non grounding-type receptacle(s) shall be permitted to be replaced with another non grounding-type receptacle(s). (b) A non grounding-type receptacle(s) shall be permitted to be replaced with a ground-fault circuit interrupter-type of receptacle(s). These receptacles shall be marked No Equipment Ground. An equipment grounding conductor shall not be connected from the ground-fault circuit-interrupter-type receptacle to any outlet supplied from the ground-fault circuit-interrupter receptacle. (c) A non grounding-type receptacle(s) shall be permitted to be replaced with a grounding-type receptacle(s) where supplied through a ground-fault circuit interrupter. Grounding-type receptacles supplied through the ground-fault circuit interrupter shall be marked GFCI Protected and No Equipment Ground. An equipment grounding conductor shall not be connected between the grounding-type receptacles. No changes to the remainder of are included in this proposal. The proposed changes to (A) and (B), are intended to be editorial including making exceptions complete sentences as required by the NEC Style Manual. No changes are proposed to (C). The proposed change to (D)(1) is intended to require grounding-type receptacles if the receptacle is located where the manufacturer requires equipment be supplied from a grounding-type receptacle or branch circuit. If the receptacle does not provide an equipment grounding conductor connection, a violation of the manufacturer installation instruction occurs and a violation of 110.3(B) occurs. In addition, a list of equipment or appliances that are required to be grounded is included in If a receptacle is located where these equipment or appliances will be supplied, a receptacle connected to an equipment grounding conductor is required. Since the NEC is the minimum standard for safety, failing to comply with the requirements of 110.3(B) or will 16