Supporting green construction initiatives by John Taecker

Transcription

1 Rebuilt Equipment Certification Programs Supporting green construction initiatives by John Taecker Interest in green construction practices continues to increase, spurred by concerns about the environment and current economic conditions. One aspect of green construction practices involves recycling used equipment, including various degrees of rebuilding, remanufacturing, refurbishing, repairing or reconditioning of equipment. The result is commonly referred to as a rebuilt product. To be viable, green construction practices need to be sustainable, but they cannot undermine the fundamental levels established for public safety. Safety considerations The Listing Mark on a newly manufactured piece of equipment is an indication that the product complies with nationally recognized safety requirements when the product was shipped from the factory, (continued on page 4) In this issue: 2 No Kidding Around Nursery Safety 3 Fire Alarm Equipment Labeling 5 Connect App for iphone 6 Enhanced Code Authorities Web Pages 7 Questions & Answers

2 -ese Definitions of terms frequently used at Follow-Up Services (FUS) A program that is critical for maintaining the integrity of the Mark. Not only does evaluate samples of products in its laboratories during certification investigations, also regularly visits locations where Certified products are manufactured to verify that manufacturers maintain adequate controls to continually comply with current requirements. Throughout the lifetime of the certification, products undergo regular inspections at manufacturing facilities to verify continued compliance with requirements. The Code Authority No Kidding Around: Nursery Safety As the neighborhood safety advocate, I provided the following guidelines that address safety hazards associated with home nurseries: Listed smoke alarms should be installed in the nursery and in all sleeping rooms, outside of each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including basements. Listed carbon monoxide (CO) alarms should be installed outside of the nursery and bedrooms in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on every occupiable floor. Halogen torchiere lamps should be placed in locations where they cannot be tipped over by children, pets, or a strong draft from an open window. Do not allow curtains or other combustible materials to come in contact with torchiere lamps at any time. While chatting with a group of neighbors the other day, one of them mentioned that they were moving their infant daughter into her own room. Along with all the discussion about room colors and decorations, the conversation came around to safety considerations for the nursery. 02 To help prevent an infant from becoming trapped between the crib frame and mattress, parents should select a firm mattress that fits the crib frame snugly and securely. Also, care should be taken to ensure the mattress support does not easily pull away from the corner posts. A tape measure or ruler should be used to look for potential strangulation hazards and areas where an infant can become trapped. There should be no more than 2 3/8 inches between crib slats. Corner posts should not extend more than 1/16 of an inch above the end panels unless the corner posts extend at least 16 inches high for a canopy. Headboards and footboards should not contain cutout areas. Additional information on nursery safety can be found at Click on Safety Tips by Room. Managing Editor

3 03 Fire Alarm Equipment Labeling investigates and Lists a wide range of fire alarm system control units and equipment. This includes two basic types of configurations: products that arrive from the factory as completely assembled units and products that are assembled in the field from various subassemblies. To properly inspect and approve installations of the fire alarm system equipment, it is important to understand the Listing Marks that each type of unit should bear as well as related installation considerations. Certification markings All Listed fire alarm control units, equipment and accessories include the Signaling Listing Mark on the product or on the smallest unit container in which the product is packaged. This Mark includes the symbol with the word SIGNALING above the symbol and the word LISTED below the symbol, a control number, and the product name, e.g., Fire Alarm Equipment or Fire Alarm Subassembly. A single fire alarm equipment label is applied to control units and control unit accessories that represent complete products. For example, a control unit with an enclosure, power supply, and all of the applicable circuit boards that form a minimum configuration system typically would bear a single Fire Alarm Equipment Listing Mark. This Listing covers the complete unit, including the circuit boards, power supply and equipment enclosure and does not require additional components or subassemblies to be provided to form a minimum system. A Fire Alarm Subassembly Listing Mark is applied to each component of a control unit or accessory that do not represent a complete product. Typical subassemblies include a control unit or accessory enclosure, separate circuit boards, power supplies, assemblies without enclosures, and similar components. Often, fire alarm control units are modular and assembled in the field. In this case, there may be several fire alarm subassemblies that make up a fire alarm control unit. The manufacturer s installation instructions detail the arrangement of subassemblies required to create a fire alarm control unit and/or system. Installation instructions The manufacturer s installation instructions referenced on a product marking by drawing number and revision level/date should be consulted for details regarding minimum system configuration and other specifics concerning the arrangement of fire alarm subassemblies required to make up a complete fire alarm control unit and/ or system. These instructions are reviewed by during the certification process, and during Follow-Up inspections at the manufacturer s assembly plant to verify that they comply with requirements. Additional markings Equipment that is Listed for use in applications in addition to fire alarm systems will include information about the additional application as part of the Listing Mark. These include applications such as security, energy management, hospital signaling and nurse call, etc. Consult the individual Listings for the application coverage(s) for a particular system. The product name on the Listing Mark may be abbreviated using type codes as follows. Type F represents fire alarm equipment, and Type F: Subassembly represents fire alarm equipment subassembly. (continued on page 7)

4 04 Rebuilt Equipment Certification Programs (continued from cover) and that it is suitable for installation and use in accordance with specific model codes. However, if a product is rebuilt, cannot confirm that it continues to comply with appropriate safety requirements without additional investigation. A Field Evaluation is one way to determine if a rebuilt product continues to comply with safety requirements. The downside is that a separate evaluation is needed to determine the acceptability of each equipment installation. Alternatively, has developed programs to determine the suitability of equipment rebuilt under a more structured equipment rebuilding program. Rebuilt equipment certification programs s rebuilt equipment certification programs address both green construction and safety concerns. These programs cover specific types of products that can be fully evaluated to the same safety requirements used to evaluate newly constructed products. In order for a rebuilt product to be considered for certification, first needs to establish the feasibility of determining compliance of the product with all the applicable product safety requirements. Concerns that need to be addressed include the potential effects of deterioration due to normal use and aging or damage caused by fire, flood, seismic, wind or electrical faults. has established rebuilt equipment certification programs when either the original manufacturer or another party has the necessary facilities, technical knowledge and manufacturing skills to rebuild products that continue to comply with safety requirements. These programs require the equipment rebuilder to comply with the following requirements: The original Mark must be removed from the equipment being rebuilt, or permanently defaced. The equipment can only be modified using materials and procedures that are suitable for the application. Production line testing may be conducted to verify that the rebuilt equipment complies with specified performance requirements. Rebuilt equipment complying with all program requirements are plainly and permanently marked with the name of the rebuilder and a Mark containing the term Rebuilt, or other terminology suitable for the product category. The rebuilt equipment shall be subjected to the same requirements as newly constructed equipment. There are product categories in which has chosen not to establish equipment rebuilding programs due to safety considerations that cannot be adequately addressed. For example, does not have a certification program for rebuilding or refurbishing molded case circuit breakers. Over the years has created certification programs for rebuilt cooking appliances, refrigerators, vending machines, uninterruptible power supplies, motor controllers, motors for use in hazardous locations, office furnishings and electric signs, to name a few. The guide information for each product category with a rebuilt certification program references the existence of such a program and identifies the applicable Mark for rebuilt products. Evaluations of rebuilt equipment certification programs for rebuilt equipment require the rebuilt equipment facility to pass an initial investigation to demonstrate compliance with all program requirements. These programs typically verify the following criteria, among others: Determine that the materials to be used are acceptable. Establish that a minimum amount of measurement and testing equipment is available to perform the required inspections. Review the machining and manufacturing equipment to verify that they are suitable for the type of rebuilding work that may be necessary. Explain the requirements of the program, including the methods and procedures to be employed during the rebuilding process. Once equipment rebuilders demonstrate compliance with all program requirements they obtain certification under the specific rebuilt equipment program. Equipment rebuilding facilities are also covered under s factory surveillance program to verify ongoing compliance with program requirements. Rebuilt hazardous location motors A good example of a rebuilt equipment program is the program covering rebuilding of electric motors (and generators) for hazardous locations. The motor to be rebuilt is required to have been Listed for use in hazardous locations when new. Under this program, a motor can only be rebuilt for any one, or for any combination

5 05 Connect App featured on Apple itunes of the hazardous location Classes and Groups for which it was originally Listed. Certain types of motors are not eligible to be rebuilt unless the original equipment manufacturer s information is available. All motors and auxiliary electrical circuits are required to be subjected to a dielectric voltage withstand test, using test equipment that is calibrated at least annually. The program requires the rebuilding facility to inspect motors for damage or changes that may affect their operation in a hazardous location. All damage must be repaired, and changes that could adversely affect the motor performance with regard to hazardous locations are not permitted. As a countercheck to the work performed at the rebuilding facility, periodic, unannounced visits are made by a local field representative to examine the motors being rebuilt under the program. The frequency of these visits is based on the quantity of motors being rebuilt under the program. The Listing Mark includes the product name Rebuilt Electric Motor for Hazardous Locations. The Listing Mark applies to the motor itself, not to any equipment driven by the motor. For more information, consult the guide information for Motors and Generators, Rebuilt for Use in Hazardous Locations (PTKQ) or Summary Authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) should understand that rebuilt equipment, even equipment bearing an original Listing Mark, may not continue to comply with the safety standards used to investigate the original equipment. It is difficult if not impossible for most AHJs to verify that the rebuilt equipment continues to comply with critical safety requirements. Because of this difficulty AHJs should require the equipment to bear a rebuilt equipment Listing Mark of an approved nationally recognized testing laboratory such as. Alternately a field evaluation can be conducted to verify that the rebuilt equipment complies with recognized safety standards. For additional information on specific rebuilt equipment programs, refer to the guide information for those product categories or contact John Taecker in San Jose, Calif., at John.K.Taecker@us.ul.com or at The Apple itunes store now features Connect, an application that provides fast, easy access to s product certification information and code compliance tools. Through this application, you can directly access: s Online Certifications Directory Verify product certification claims by searching for file number, manufacturer s name, product category and other criteria s Code Correlation Database Links product certifications to multiple editions of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70), International Fire Code, International Building Code, Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and others s Regulatory Services Let s Regulatory Services team provide unmatched installation code support. Many of our staff are former regulatory officials, so they know and understand your concerns. Contact us by toll-free number (U.S./Canada only) or . This application also includes answers to the most commonly asked code compliance questions received by concerning items such as CE Marking, field modifications of Listed products, Standards and more. For information on downloading this free application, look for Connect in the itunes store.

6 06 Enhanced Code Authorities Web Pages Providing the information you need to approve installations The Code Authorities web pages have been updated to provide you with information that will assist in approving the installation of certified products and providing safe, code-compliant installations. This update includes a substantial increase in technical content designed to answer questions you may have about certifications and services. These changes represent a significant enhancement from the previous content and were developed in response to requests from code officials, architects and contractors. The.com Code Authorities pages can be accessed by going to selecting the Code Authorities perspective and clicking on the Code Authorities Home link. Highlights of the update include the following, accessible from the left navigation column: Home page The Code Authorities home page includes headlines about current programs and services of interest to code authorities and banners with links to useful tools and web content. It is suggested that you click the Make this my home page box to immediately direct you to this page during future visits to.com. Support services A new Support services page consolidates information on the many support services and online tools available to code authorities to increase the effectiveness of their reviews and approvals. Here, users will find information on locating certifications and Listings, correlating code requirements with certifications, University training material, and contact information for Regulatory Services department staff, who can answer questions you might have on the applications for which products are certified. Unlabeled products Difficulties often arise when code authorities are evaluating the installation of products that do not bear an appropriate label. A new page Concerns with products in the field provides information on a variety of programs designed to quickly and effectively resolve these problems and approve the installation. Frequently asked questions A new Frequently asked questions page provides answers some of the most frequently asked questions that code authorities have about -related issues. Publications and notifications has a library of complimentary publications designed to address the needs of code authorities including newsletters, product directories, pamphlets, marking and application guides, and safety videos. The timate notification service is also available to keep subscribers up-to date with the latest safety developments that may impact them. Information on all these items is available in one convenient location on the Publications and notifications page. Technical topics You rely on the engineering expertise of to help resolve technical questions related to product installations. We understand this need and have provided more than 30 pages of new technical material on products that you may be required to inspect. These new technical resources can be found at Technical topics for code authorities; please be on the lookout for new topics in the future. Standards for Safety Sometimes, you have questions about Standards for Safety. For your convenience, links to the Standards information most frequently sought by code authorities are included on the Standards for Safety pages. This area includes scopes of Standards and Outlines of Investigation and information on Standard Technical Panels. Code discipline pages In addition to the new resources described above, enhancements are being made to the. com Code Authorities sections covering specific code disciplines, such as building, electrical and fire. You can expect to see changes to these pages in the upcoming few months. We understand that code authorities rely on to provide current and relevant information to help evaluate and approve installations. Our Code Authorities web pages have been upgraded to aid you in fulfilling your important role to provide safe, code compliant installations. For more information on the enhanced Code Authorities pages on.com, please visit or contact Howard Hopper in San Jose, Calif., at Howard.D.Hopper@us.ul.com or at

7 07 Questions & Answers engineers answer questions concerning and its operations, Standards for Safety, product certifications, and the code applications for which products are certified. I recently inspected a computer facility that included runs of Type OFNP optical fiber cable air in an air handling space under a raised floor. The cable was from a company that had a Listing, but I did not see a Mark on the cable. What markings should be on the cable for it to be acceptable for use in this application? Type OFN cable is listed under the product category for Optical Fiber Cable (QAYK). Listed optical fiber cable is required to be marked with the cable type-letter designation, e.g. OFN, OFNR, OFNP, etc., manufacturer s identification and the symbol or the letters. These markings are provided on the outer surface of the cable or on a marker tape that is readily legible through a translucent or transparent jacket. The markings are repeated at intervals not longer than 40 inches. Other type codes, may be used to represent other applications for which the equipment is Listed. These include, among others: Type S Security Equipment Type HN Hospital Signaling and Nurse Call Equipment Type G General Signaling Equipment Type E Emergency Signaling Equipment Refer to the product category guide information for specific details on type codes. Inspection considerations Code authorities inspecting fire alarm system installations should consider the following: Make sure all system components include the word SIGNALING as part of the Listing Mark Verify that the equipment includes a Fire Alarm Equipment Listing Mark, and/or that field installed or assembled components such as enclosures, circuit boards, In addition to these markings, a tag is attached to the reel or carton containing the cable or tied to every shipping length of finished cable. This tag includes all of the information noted above, along with the complete Listing Mark and the following information as a minimum: Optical-fiber cables are for installation as described in Article 770 and other applicable parts of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70. Where optical-fiber is installed in a laser system, the system shall comply with the ANSI Z136 laser system safety standards. If the cable you inspected does not contain the markings described above, it is not considered to be Listed. For additional information on optical fiber cable, please contact Susan Stene in San Jose, Calif., at Susan.L.Stene@us.ul.com or at Fire Alarm Equipment Labeling (continued from page 3) internal power supplies and modules and similar components include a Fire Alarm Subassembly Listing Mark. Products and components that do not bear one of these markings are not considered to be Listed. Confirm that the system is configured and installed as described in the installation instructions referenced on the product markings Install the equipment in accordance with all applicable code requirements, including those found in NFPA 72 by Neil Lakomiak For additional information on fire alarm equipment markings and the applications for which this equipment may be Listed, please contact Neil Lakomiak in Northbrook, Ill., at Neil.Lakomiak@us.ul.com or at John Wiggins Retires On December 31st John Wiggins retired from Underwriters Laboratories after serving thirteen years in the Regulatory Services department. John worked out of the Research Triangle Park, North Carolina office, and provided technical support for code officials throughout the United States. During his tenure at John was an active participant in many code officials conferences and meetings, included those attended by building, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas and fire code enforcement officials. John has been involved for a number of years in ICC code development activities, and most recently served as Chair of the International Fuel Gas Code Development Committee. His friends and colleagues will miss his common sense approach to product safety issues.

8 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PA I D 333 Pfingsten Road Northbrook, IL United States of America Permit No Northbrook, IL The Code Authority 08 Calendar of Events If you would like The Code Authority to consider publishing your upcoming events, contact Howard Hopper by at Howard.D.Hopper@us.ul.com. Please type TCA Calendar in the subject line. April NFPA Mexico Fire Expo Mexico City mfe2010/index.html April Congressional Fire Services Institute Dinner and Seminars Washington, DC May 3 4 IAFC Fire Rescue Med Las Vegas, NV. May ICC Final Action Hearings Dallas, TX The Code Authority Published by Regulatory Services Department of Underwriters Laboratories Available to assist regulatory authorities W:: ul.com/codeauthorities T:: E:: RegulatoryServices@us.ul.com Managing Editor Howard Hopper T:: E:: Howard.D.Hopper@us.ul.com Address changes and additions Diane Fonzino E:: Diane.E.Fonzino@us.ul.com All rights reserved. Reprints with permission of Underwriters Laboratories Inc. BDI