This month marks two years since the debut of ChatGPT. Here’s an inside look at how artificial intelligence is driving innovation in the electrical industry. Read more on pg. 28
IN THIS ISSUE
Determining the Root Cause of an Accident pg. 8
Ending Estimating Bad Habits pg. 12
Safe Operation of LV Air Circuit Breakers pg. 16
How to Get the Job-Site Materials You Need pg. 22
Recruiting with Flexible Work Models pg. 48
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One of the most misinterpreted and misapplied NEC requirements in the electrical industry is power service to electric fire pumps. See why this problem should never occur due to the critical nature of a fire pump’s function.
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EC&M TECH TALK — TIPS FOR INSTALLATION OF AIR CONDITIONING AND REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT
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By Ellen Parson, Editor-in-Chief
It’s been a few years since OpenAI’s ChatGPT burst onto the scene in November 2022 followed by multiple artificial intelligence (AI) alternatives. A major milestone for thrusting generative AI chatbots into the mainstream, this launch prompted what I would call a general “AI anxiety” for many people. Although early concepts of AI development date back to the 1950s or earlier, having basic AI tools at the fingertips of the general public suddenly felt like the start of a cultural shift. Since that time — despite fears over robots replacing humans, misinformation, privacy concerns, and a general skepticism/hesitation when it comes to the technology and its potential impact on society — AI adoption and implementation are certainly at work in most, if not all, of the country’s major industries at varying levels. The electrical industry is certainly no exception.
In the June issue, I wrote in this Industry Viewpoint about how the AI evolution is poised to transform the electrical design industry. This idea was based on the results of our annual Top 40 Electrical Design Firms survey, which revealed 43% of respondents were “already using” AI tools (when asked how long they thought it would take AI to become a viable component of electrical design work). Turn to the Top 50 Electrical Contractors survey results a few months later in September, and only 25% of respondents indicated they were “already using” the technology. However, more than three-quarters of electrical contractor respondents suggested they would be doing so “within two years.” Both Top 40 and Top 50 respondents revealed they were harnessing the power of AI tools primarily in the same two areas: optimizing processes/improving efficiency and marketing/promotions efforts.
EC&M’s survey results mirror the findings of a recent industry report, “Building the Future,” from BlueBeam, a developer of solutions and services for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals worldwide. Based on a survey of architecture, engineering and construction managers, the research reveals significant investment in AI by AEC companies globally with almost three quarters (74%) reporting they’re now using AI within one or more phases of their building projects. However, 54% of those using AI expressed concerned about AI regulation — of those, 44% indicated these concerns are “having a real impact on AI implementation within their companies.” According to a press release from BlueBeam summarizing the report’s findings, AI implementation is particularly prevalent in the design and planning phases of construction. Almost half of AEC firms are using AI for design (48%) and planning (42%) specifically. Within the companies that are using AI, more than half (55%) agree that AI has become highly important, with more than 70% now allocating up to 25% of their budget to AI. This number is set to rise, given the fact that 84% plan to increase their investment in AI over the next five years.
We at EC&M will continue to investigate and cover all of the ways AI is transforming the electrical construction and maintenance industry. This month’s dedicated theme of “construction technology” topics is a testament to that promise. In this month’s issue, don’t miss some cutting-edge articles that demonstrate how the electrical industry is embracing AI in specific ways, including:
• The cover story, starting on page 28 and written by Freelancer Tim Kridel, takes a deeper dive into how AI is driving innovation through “intelligent” electrical design.
• Examining the next frontier in tool innovation, the piece on page 34 written by Fluke’s Sal Paraltore answers the question every electrical professional wants to know: “How will AI make my job easier or more efficient?”
• Finally, Bob Crain of Cablofil explores why the growing need for advanced electrical infrastructure in data centers is powering the AI revolution on page 54.
As the electrical construction industry continues to face an ongoing skilled worker shortage with no real end in sight, one thing is certain. Companies who figure out how to leverage the power of AI tools to work smarter (not harder) will definitely gain a competitive advantage over their peers sooner rather than later.
What really happened? The root cause of two very different accidents may very well be the same.
By Mark Lamendola, Electrical Consultant
Asafety incident report usually identifies the precipitating event. It doesn’t identify the small failures that led to it. In many cases, those failures aren’t just three deep but far deeper.
One way to determine the root cause is to start with the precipitating event and use the Five Questions Method. But it may need to branch off, due to the multiple causes effect (typically, multiple errors precede a safety incident). Here’s an example:
Jerrod sustained a serious eye injury.
Q1: Why did Jerrod sustain a serious eye injury?
A: He was standing next to a grinder when he had no reason to be there, and his safety glasses didn’t have side shields.
Q2: Why was Jerrod standing there?
A: He was waiting for Brad, the machinist, to put the finishing touches on a part.
Q3: Why did Brad permit an unnecessary third party to stand so close to the grinder?
A: Brad had not been trained in this safety issue.
Q4: Why didn’t Jerrod’s safety glasses have those side shields?
A: Jerrod had been instructed per the company’s safety policy to have those side shields but ignored the instructions.
Q5: Why didn’t Jerrod’s coworkers, Jerrod’s supervisor, or any other supervisor call him out on this?
A: That’s a very good question.
This method is helpful, but using it is tricky. It’s easy to get the wrong answer and then follow the wrong path. For example, the answer to Q2 could have been there was no waiting area
for Jerrod — and that could have led to asking why we don’t have a waiting area. But a waiting area for “customers” of the machinists is a luxury.
And how would going down that path prevent a similar outcome if Jerrod’s coworker Dave is unnecessarily in the wrong place in some other circumstance? For example, he’s escorting a contractor who is a thermographer. The thermographer must stand in front of equipment that has covers removed. But whether Dave does the same does not affect the outcome of the thermography, so he has no reason to also stand in front of the equipment. He is safer to stand
off to one side. A similar logic extends to many other circumstances, such as when Bill stands under a crane load. Because it’s a rearview mirror approach and because of seemingly infinite permutations of safety mistakes, this approach is of limited value. You may determine what exact error started the whole chain of events, but correcting for it won’t prevent a similar error from being made due to the same underlying cause. How do you get at the underlying cause?
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by asking, “Which fundamental safety principles, controls, and/or procedures may have been violated here?” Answer that, and you pull up a weed by its roots instead of plucking off a leaf.
You’ll find a list of 10 principles in NFPA 70E, Informative Annex E, E.1. This Annex also lists eight safety program controls [E.2] and 12 procedures [E.3]. These are typical — exactly what’s in your facility’s electrical safety program may differ.
Going back to Q5 in the example of Jerrod, the answer that will help us the most is that there was a failure to fully implement the safety program principle of “Protecting employees from shock, burn, blast, and other hazards due to the working environment.”
This still leaves us with a rearview mirror approach, however. Waiting for the wake-up call of a safety incident to tell you to address safety program defects is not the best way.
We can draw lessons from how maintenance has evolved over the past few decades. At one time, maintenance was reactive. The main job of the maintenance department was to follow failures around and fix them. This was often referred to as “putting out fires.” This is the equivalent of fixing a safety failure after someone is injured.
Then someone got the idea of doing the equivalent of basic fire prevention. This was called... wait for it... preventive maintenance. For electricians, this meant performing specific steps like cleaning breaker contacts and lubricating motors — and usually on a calendar basis, whether a need was indicated or not. It did, however, significantly reduce downtime. Applying this concept to reducing safety incidents means things like regularly scheduled safety training, inspections of tool guards, and inspections of PPE. Modern maintenance is conditionbased and predictive. One benefit of this approach is it eliminates unnecessary maintenance, which is wasteful and needlessly introduces human error. The biggest advantage is it provides a factbased means of intervening before a failure occurs. This is where you need to be with your safety program.
Safety training doesn’t automatically make people safe. Maybe they don’t understand the training, don’t retain it, or don’t comply with it. Conditionbased and predictive maintenance both require the use of test equipment to measure what’s going on and a system to compare the measurement to expected values. Those values may be absolute (e.g., motor vibration not to exceed 0.16 in. per second). Or they may be relative (e..g., the latest reading of insulation resistance shows a sharp rise in the curve relative to the historic measurements).
Thus, to “get in front of it,” you must have a means of measuring how well safety training is understood, retained, and implemented.
NFPA 70E provides general retraining requirements in Sec. 110.6. This text uses terms such as “knowledgeable,” “understand,” and “familiar.” Your “test equipment” to employ the equivalent of condition-based and predicative maintenance on training efficacy consists of things like:
• Asking probing questions during training.
• Asking those same questions of those who have completed the training (“qualified persons”).
• Witnessing and critiquing practical demonstrations during training.
• Witnessing and critiquing actual performance by qualified persons.
These functions need not — and should not — fall entirely on management. Workers should check each other, providing a cycle of regular observation and feedback.
The NFPA 70E Technical Committee members understand that people forget things over time, thus NFPA 70E has retraining requirements built in. For example, lockout/tagout retraining must take place at intervals not exceeding three years [Sec. 110.6(B)(2)(2)].
Practice does not make perfect, practice makes permanent. Over time, people will introduce small mistakes in how they do things. If not spotted, identified, and corrected, those become ingrained. To
extend retention, you must nip error creep in the bud.
One way to do that is to pick some error discovered in the “Understanding” phase we just discussed and then address it to the team. For example, Larry didn’t use the correct voltage verification method during lockout/ tagout. So at the next safety meeting, the electrical supervisor might conclude by saying, “I don’t want any of you taking shortcuts with voltage verification while doing lockout/tagout. It can become a fatal habit.” There’s no need to detail what that method is; these qualified people have already been trained on it. The mention will trigger what needs to be triggered.
Failure to comply with the safety program requirements can be due to problems with understanding and/or retention. But if you have addressed those, then you must look for other factors. It may be the company’s fault. For example, Erin wasn’t wearing the proper gloves. You ask why, and she says the tool crib did not have any her size. Simply going without is not a correct solution, Erin should have gone to her supervisor about the problem. But maybe she did, and it’s the supervisor who isn’t complying because he told her to just use other gloves that fit even though they aren’t correct for the task.
If the employee is violating the safety program requirements and the company is at least partly to blame (as in the gloves example), you have a training problem. The employee needs to be made aware that where some issue prevents compliance, the work must stop until the issue is resolved.
In cases where the employee is willfully violating those requirements, you have a discipline problem. Don’t extend a “favor” by giving the offending employee an unofficial verbal warning. Follow the company’s procedure for progressive discipline. The reasons go beyond legal protection for the company and include the protection of other employees.
While it may suffice for insurance and legal reasons to file a safety incident
report that identifies only the precipitating event, it doesn’t suffice for getting at the real root causes of safety failures. Nor is it good to wait for an incident before addressing those root causes.
You need to be proactive, predictive, and constantly on the lookout for small
erosions in safety training and safety practices. This is ultimately much better than chasing your tail after someone is injured.
Mark Lamendola is an electrical consultant based in Merriam, Kan. He can be reached at mark@mindconnection.com. 1.
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By Don Kiper, Estimating 101
The definition of the status quo is: “The state of things; the way things are, as opposed to the way they could be; the existing state of affairs.” For example, “He’s content with the status quo and isn’t looking for change.”
Most employees do not like change. Years ago in New York City, a company moved their employees on the east side of the floor to the west side and vice versa. Eighty percent of the employees objected to the change. One year later, the company asked if the employees wanted to swap back to the original setup. You guessed it — 80% did not want to move.
Most people have comfort zones. However, business is not about comfort; it is about efficiency and profitability. If you want comfort, you might have
to hire someone to say nice things to you. And if something is efficient and profitable, do not change it. However, if something is not working, you MUST change it.
Analyze your processes and then break out of the status quo. The objective in contracting is efficiency, accuracy, and profitability; not simply how you prefer to do something.
Are you stuck in the status quo in any of the following areas?
1. Estimating production and efficiency: How is the company performing? How is each estimator performing? Are you bidding on every ideal project or are you missing projects? Simply producing more estimates should not be the goal. Bidding the best projects in the best markets will increase efficiency. This may or may not require
additional estimators. Also matching the type of project to the estimator’s experience/expertise will increase efficiency.
2. Win ratio: Are you trending downward or upward? One thing is for sure — you are not just staying steady. You are either increasing or decreasing. A high win ratio will indicate a higher efficiency. Analyze the projects that you did not win. Determine what may have been the factor(s) contributing to why the project was not won. Check your estimates’ accuracy, the competition, and the current market. With fewer projects to bid on, typically, the profit margins go down. When there is plenty of work to bid, the competition is less fierce, and win ratios go up.
3. Software: Are you taking advantage of software designed for the construction industry? Surely you are not writing
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This monthly newsletter presents training information on a variety of subjects for electrical engineers, technicians, electricians, and apprentices.
Topics covered include:
• Applying NEC requirements
• Test & measurement techniques
• Codes & standards updates
• Estimating tips
• Identifying Code violations
• Apprentice training tutorials
See all of our EC&M e-newsletters at www.ecmweb.com
takeoff quantities on paper takeoff sheets, then totaling and entering them into your estimating software? Estimating software is a tool that an estimator uses. The estimator must know how to apply the best philosophies and practices to use estimating software to its greatest potential.
Departmental procedures: Do estimators organize and use software to their preference or comfort zone? The value of a standard operating procedure (SOP) cannot be overstated. The departmental structure must provide the best environment for employees to work. It is well documented that employees are most productive in a structured work environment.
Estimating sequence: Do you have an estimating checklist that estimators follow for consistency? Consistent procedures will provide consistent results. For example, a cook typically will follow a recipe for a particular dish. A recipe is usually a list of sequences of combining ingredients for designated time segments. The best estimating departments create “recipes” that provide the best outcomes and greatest efficiencies.
6. Training: Does your company provide training for all positions? Electricians are trained through apprenticeship programs. Workers are trained in safety through OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 programs. Which training program are your estimators and project managers trained in? Some are trained by observation and the “trial and error methods, which are the costliest.
Every contractor should have departmental procedures that every employee must follow. These non-negotiable procedures must be required to make the contractor as efficient as possible. Here are actions you can take that will contribute to ending estimating bad practices that are contributing to the status quo.
• Establish processes that influence profitability. Profitability must take precedence over preferences.
• Move employees out of inefficient comfort zones. Efficient comfort zones are acquired. When an employee becomes more productive, the zone becomes comfortable.
• Focus on efficiency, not production. Increased productivity is the by-product of efficiency.
• Fill positions with qualified em ployees. The employee must have the potential to grow into their position. Having an electrical construction background is very beneficial to grow ing estimators.
• Provide proper training to make employees as efficient as possible. The best employees are trained. Learning by observation typically does not provide the best outcomes.
Every contractor should have departmental procedures that every employee must follow. These non-negotiable procedures must be required to make the contractor as efficient as possible.
• Have weekly meetings to discuss processes and outcomes. Weekly com munication with an estimating team will provide great insight and feedback for improvement.
• Be sure everyone keeps their egos in check. Strong personalities and egos can influence a company’s culture negatively. Great teams are built when everyone on the team can contribute.
Remember, you get what you inspect, not what you expect. It is time to start inspecting your current status quo. Change can be for the better, especially when it increases your bottom line.
Don Kiper is an independent electrical estimating trainer and consultant based in Niagara Falls, N.Y. He can be reached at don@electricalestimating101.com.
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By Kerry Heid, Shermco Industries
Low-voltage circuit breakers are predominant in virtually every electrical power system. Several years ago, Shermco Industries surveyed NETA-accredited companies for the IEEE Electrical Safety Workshop and published the results (IEEE ESW-2008-21). The NETA survey and associated IEEE paper showed that 22% of these breakers did not follow their time-current characteristics, and 10.5% did not operate when initial serviceaged maintenance was performed. The majority of failures were mechanical, which indicates regular maintenance must be a priority.
Low-voltage air circuit breakers (LVACBs) come in a wide variety of ratings and styles from numerous manufacturers, and it can be a challenge to ensure these devices are tested to operate within their time-current bandwidth.
The 2021 edition of CSA Z462, Workplace Electrical Safety , offers requirements for these devices to be assessed on a case-by-case basis as outlined in an electrical maintenance program such as the example in CSA Z463, Maintenance of Electrical Systems It is always advisable to use competent maintenance personnel (such as those employed by NETA-accredited companies) for field testing that follows the latest ANSI/NETA maintenance testing specifications for the assessment of electrical power equipment and systems.
A recent assessment by the CSA Z463 Technical Committee deemed the rackable LVACB a device that carries a higher risk than most other devices in
an electrical power system. This device is quite often operated by maintenance staff to establish an electrically safe work condition. LVACBs have an onboard protection system, including a series trip unit or an electronic trip unit consisting of current transformers, a wiring harness, and a protective relay as well as some type of mechanical actuator to open the device.
When not exercised regularly, an LVACB can become inoperable, without any prior warning or indication to the operator. Combining the features of rackable, frequently operated, and
on-board complete protection systems makes the likelihood and impact of failure one of the highest exposure points in the electrical power system (Photos 1a and 1b).
The chapter on “Safety Related Maintenance Requirements” in the 2021 edition of CSA Z462, The Standard for Electrical Safety, has been revised to emphasize electrical maintenance that directly affects worker safety.
“Condition of maintenance” is to be considered numerous times during the
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risk assessment process. The biggest issue in the industry is whether the equipment trips to clear a fault at the time specified. To ensure that it does, maintenance personnel must perform inspection, testing, and verification to prove the method chosen to determine the incident energy exposure is valid. When not properly maintained, these devices often operate slower — or, in some cases, not at all — especially when service-aged in an industrial operating environment or due to other factors, such as age, lack of maintenance, cleanliness, etc. When protective devices do not follow their time-current characteristics, workers can receive a false estimate of the incident energy exposures and may choose the required personal protective equipment (PPE) incorrectly from the arc flash and shock label or the table method.
The operating speed of a protective device is a major factor. Maintaining protective devices is critical to a worker’s safety because it affects their ability to determine the true value of incident energy exposures in the field. Tables list typical fault-clearing times of overcurrent protection devices — all dependent on equipment maintenance and proper operation. For this reason, Z462 has upgraded its safety-related maintenance clause to focus on items that affect worker safety, not just general maintenance requirements.
The 2021 edition references the maintenance requirements for low-voltage
circuit breakers. A removable LVACB aligns with all these requirements for maintenance:
1. Protective devices “shall be maintained to function in accordance with their designed operating times.”
Electrical Testing Education articles are provided by the InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA), www.NETAworld.org. NETA was formed in 1972 to establish uniform testing procedures for electrical equipment and systems. Today the association accredits electrical testing companies; certifies electrical testing technicians; publishes the ANSI/NETA Standards for Acceptance Testing, Maintenance Testing, Commissioning, and the Certification of Electrical Test Technicians; and provides training through its annual conferences (PowerTest and EPIC — Electrical Power Innovations Conference) and its expansive library of educational resources.
2. Overcurrent relays, commonly called trip units on low-voltage breakers, “shall be tested to operate in accordance with their time-current characteristics.”
3. Ground fault protection “shall be inspected and tested to ensure they are functioning correctly and within the trip or alarm time specified.”
4. Key interlocks “shall be tested for proper operation.”
5. Mechanical systems that need regular exercising “shall be inspected, exercised, tested, and maintained to ensure proper electrical and mechanical operation and circuit isolation of the contacts and mechanical operation of the racking mechanisms and, where applicable, shutter mechanisms and safety interlocks.”
6. Settings “shall be reviewed to ensure they meet the protection coordination study and incident energy analysis.”
All of these factors directly correlate with the safety features of a low-voltage breaker. It is vitally important to this process to ensure the entire system functions properly, including current sensors, wiring harnesses, trip units, shunt coils, interlocks, and conducting surfaces.
At the end of calendar year 2020, Shermco Industries surveyed a group of NETA technicians about their issues and most recent failures with low-voltage power circuit breakers. The breakers
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were from a wide variety of manufacturers, vintages, and industry types. Some highlights of the survey included:
• Mechanical operation is always an issue, often due to improper lubrication, lack of exercise, wear on the main operating mechanism, or even overlubricating — particularly when applied to the finger clusters instead of the stabs, which may be energized or not accessible (Photo 2 on page 18). It is extremely important to understand the consequences of lubricating the clusters versus the stabs or using dissimilar lubrications, as this frequently causes contact or racking problems.
• Sluggish initial operation for the first couple of operations can usually be avoided with regular maintenance of the operating mechanism and proper lubrication (Photo 3).
• Trip unit failures are common across the board with all types and manufacturers. These failures are discovered during time current testing through primary or secondary injection.
• Damage to contact surfaces from years of maintenance scrubbing with scratch pads for no reason other than to make it shiny removes the silver plating. Be very careful when performing maintenance on silver-plated surfaces.
• Generator breakers, specifically those mounted on the same chassis as the generator, tend to have a higher failure rate. This is often a mechanical failure that causes the breaker to be inoperable.
• Coil failures can include a failed undervoltage coil or trip coil as part of the trip and control scheme.
• Vintage parts are becoming more difficult to acquire from the original manufacturer; this applies to most makes and models. It is always good to have a local NETA service company or a NETA-affiliated used equipment vendor available.
Not all LVACBs are created equal. Many breakers can be quite easy to maintain, while others can be much more difficult; it depends on the installation. In the author’s opinion, the following circuit breakers are listed from the easiest to hardest to perform electrical testing on. The list is based on ease of access, shutdown required, and testing with
secondary injection versus primary injection among other factors.
1. Rackable power circuit breakers with solid state or electronic trip units.
2. Bolt-in insulated-case power circuit breakers with adjustable solid-state trip units and manufacturer’s test sets.
3. Bolt-in molded-case circuit breakers with electronic trip devices, adjustable settings, and secondary injection test ports.
4. Rackable power circuit breakers with series trip units (oil or air dash pots or other electromechanical trip units).
5. Bolt-in power circuit breakers with oil or air dash pots or other electromechanical trip units.
6. Bolt-in molded-case circuit breakers with electromechanical trip units.
Low-voltage circuit breakers, which typically include trip units or integrated tripping devices, should be tested to operate within their time-current bandwidth
or per alternative equivalent methods recommended by the manufacturer of the trip unit or circuit breaker. Industry standards are also great tools to use for proper maintenance requirements.
Just assuming electrical power distribution equipment will operate as designed without verifying operating conditions can result in an unexpected increase in incident energy values. In some cases, devices do not operate at all. The lengthening of operating time vastly increases incident energy values, arc flash boundaries, and PPE requirements. Regularly performing basic maintenance tasks, such as proper visual and mechanical inspections and electrical tests, are essential to ensure low-voltage circuit breakers can provide their important safety functions.
Kerry Heid is an executive consultant at Shermco Industries. He is a NETA Certified Level IV Test Technician and is active in Canadian standards development.
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Tips and tricks for getting job-site material when you want it, where you want it, and how you want it
By Dr. Heather Moore and Sydney Parvin, MCA, Inc.
Do you ever feel like a doctor calling for a scalpel in the critical moment of surgery — but without a nurse or scalpel to be found? Or like the race car driver who shows up to a pit stop with only three tires available for change-out? Every minute on every job is spoken for, and the fewer minutes your electricians spend worrying about the material, the more minutes can go to planning, prefabrication, and installation. Assuming the material is locally available, this article will give some simple tips on how to order it to assure you (and your electricians) aren’t left stranded and unproductive.
Our last EC&M job-site intelligence article, “Who Is Calling the (Material) Shots?,” shared MCA’s recent research on job-site decision-making, highlighting how the material-related decisions are (most of the time) left to be managed by field personnel and offering considerations that you can put in place
internally in the company or project to improve productivity.
In this article, we continue the discussion around material handling, but rather than looking internally at the decision-making, we will focus on the
your mind (although some do a good job trying!), and their main interest is selling you the material they can look up in their ERP system and getting it to you ASAP. However, this does not guarantee you will have the best experience in the delivery
Every minute on every job is spoken for, and the fewer minutes your electricians spend worrying about the material, the more minutes can go to planning, prefabrication, and installation.
vendor-related factors that influence material handling on the job and strategies to work externally with a vendor so you can get the material you need to the job when you want it, where you want it, and how you want it. Vendor sales reps or inside sales/order writers cannot read
and receipt of such material. Your electricians need to supply the information that isn’t always asked for, such as:
1. What you want
2. When you want it
3. How you want it
4. Where you want it
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The difference between a next-day delivery and a two-day lead time is a 30% or better chance that you’ll get what you need, according to Agile Distribution: Application of Lean Principals, by Dr. Perry Daneshgari, president and CEO of MCA, Inc. However, getting to the ideal state is not as easy as it should be until Agile Distribution® becomes the norm where the distributor’s role shifts from parts suppliers to Integrated Material Logistics Solutions (IMLS®) providers. In the current state of the industry, your electricians, project managers, purchasing department, and dispatchers need to give the right and full information to their inside salesperson at the supplier to get the right outcomes shown in Table 1
When ordering material for your job, consider what you want, when you want it, how you want it, and where you want it to make sure you get the materials you need in the most efficient way for installation.
As shown in Table 1, making sure you are specific when providing complete product information can help reduce potential errors later. This means being specific about the product name, manufacturer (if there is a requirement/ preference), and quantity needed. For wire, this can be especially important to make sure you have the correct type of wire at the correct length.
Being specific about when you want your material delivered can help make sure the product doesn’t arrive sooner than necessary. If not specified, you will likely get the product at the earliest available day and at the earliest available time, which may or may not work with your schedule. A few options for this, as shown in Table 1, include:
• As soon as possible/same day (do you REALLY need it that quickly?)
• Next day (expect 7 a.m. default unless you ask otherwise)
• Mid-morning (Between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.)
• Afternoon (anytime after noon)
When deciding which time of day works best for the crew on site, consider
What you want
When you want it
How you want it
Where you want it
Before you hang up
Complete product description — brand, size, color, etc.
Wire considerations — gauge/size, cut lengths, colors, pulling materials (heads, tape, ropes)
Substitution preference — no subs, preferred alternate
ASAP/same day (do you REALLY nedd it that quickly?)
Next day (expect 7 a.m. default unless you ask otherwise)
Midmorning (between 9-11 a.m.)
Afternoon (anytime after 12 p.m.)
Delivered all together or as it becomes available?
Do you want to pick it up, have it shipped by a 3rd party, or delivered by your vendor?
Consider specific packaging and container types in Table 2
Delivered to the job site or your shop?
For large orders/equipment-stored/managed at the vendor facility?
Where should the truck park/unload? Any restrictions (loading dock times, parking limitations)?
Delivered to a specific floor/area/location of install?
Ask your salesperson to repeat it back to confirm!
Table 1. Follow these steps to ensure you have the correct materials delivered when, how, and where you want them.
Fig. 1. Make sure you avoid a situation like this, where a foreman couldn’t complete piping for a UPS due to missing materials.
other trades’ delivery schedules, what your crew is working on, and if they need the material tomorrow or the next day. Following the Short Interval Scheduling (SIS®) approach, discussed in our previous EC&M article at www.ecmweb. com/55136057, can help ensure you are
looking ahead to get what you need on time and track vendor-related delays that may impact installation.
Planning for when you want it can help make sure you don’t run into the situation shown in Fig. 1, where a foreman wasn’t able to complete piping for
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Small vs. large reels
Parallel reels
Palletized (with or without wheels?)
Loose/coiled
Fixture carts
Pipe/poles
Totes/containers
Whips included?
Jackstand needed? Protection (original packaging vs. individual/repacked)
Identification (manufacturer box/labels, or unmarked)
Container type — boxes,bins,bags
Gang boxes/clamshells/carts (especially for VMI)
Labels — product labels, floor/ area labels, color coding
Loose material vs. full box quantities
Market/labeled Skids Kitted with other materials
Table 2. Packaging/container considerations.
a UPS and found themselves with both a wiring/no panel and panel/no wiring combo, shown in Fig. 1 on page 24.
Thinking about how you want the material to arrive is often overlooked. But it’s incredibly important to make sure the person on-site receiving and handling the material can identify the product correctly and avoid unnecessary time spent searching for the product or unpacking it.
For the order overall, clarify if you want the products to all come at the same time or as they become available. If they can be shipped all at the same time, this can help avoid daily deliveries and time spent making the trip to the loading dock/drop-off location each day — but it may not always be possible depending on timing needs.
If you don’t specify, you may get four deliveries during the week with one item delivered at a time, creating more work for your crew to move material to the site drop-off location.
Depending on the type of product (lighting, miscellaneous, wire, etc.), check with your vendor on the options in Table 2 for how the product arrives at the job site.
Last, but not least, it is important to plan where you want your material delivered. Do you want it delivered directly to the job site or the shop? Where do you want it on the job site? If you find yourself in a situation like
the one shown in Fig. 2 — and the loading dock is backed up with other trades’ materials — you may want to ask your vendor about temporary storage at their facility so that when it is delivered, there is space available for it.
Additionally, you may be able to plan with your vendor to specify the on-site location you would like your material delivered to, which can save your crew time moving your material to the point of installation.
In conclusion, dealing with material issues can be time-intensive and a major source of waste on the job site. By looking at ways you can communicate externally with your vendor when placing your orders for material, you can save you and your crew time looking for and carting material around.
Dr. Heather Moore is vice president of customer care at MCA, Inc. in Grand Blanc, Mich. She can be reached at hmoore@mca.net.
Sydney Parvin is associate data analyst at MCA, Inc. She can be reached at sparvin@mca.net.
important to make plans on where you want material delivered to avoid situations like a backed-up loading dock.
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By Tim Kridel, Freelance
This month marks two years since the debut of ChatGPT. Here’s an inside look at how artificial intelligence is driving innovation in the electrical industry.
In September 2024, Microsoft signed a 20-year contract to buy all the electricity produced by the Three Mile Island Unit 1 nuclear reactor to help its data centers keep up with soaring demand for artificial intelligence (AI) tools. This deal is the latest example of how AI affects electrical contractors and design firms even when they don’t use the technology.
Electrical design firms and contractors benefit from AI’s use by other industries simply because all of the necessary computing power — from employee PCs to the data centers for cloud computing and storage — requires enormous amounts of electricity. How much? Three Mile Island’s Unit 1 reactor is capable of generating about 837MW, enough to power more than 800,000 homes. Shortly before the contract was announced, Microsoft and other major AI vendors met with the White House to discuss the need for several new data centers around the country that each would use 5 GW.
The Biden-Harris Administration’s resulting proposal emphasizes renewables, which highlights how AI can drive more business for electrical contractors and design firms that specialize in solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems (BESSs). The proposal also calls for using streamlined permitting to expedite the construction of data centers and grid
upgrades. Those upgrades could benefit more than just AI data centers if, for example, the new transmission lines mean more businesses have the grid infrastructure necessary to electrify their fleets or add public EV chargers.
Even if those handful of 5 GW data centers never materialize, hundreds of smaller ones will continue to be built, such as Google’s $1 billion facility underway in Kansas City that will use 400 MW of renewable energy. Those projects will mean plenty of work for electrical contractors and design firms that target the data center market.
“Gaylor Electric is already at the forefront, taking on some of the country’s most complex and robust data center projects,” says Chuck Goodrich, president and CEO of the Indianapolis-based firm. “We believe AI is a key driver in the expanding data center market. Over the next decade, this trend will significantly enhance data processing, storage solutions, and overall efficiency.”
In addition to designing and building AI-related infrastructure, electrical contractors and design firms are starting to use the technology to increase employee productivity and efficiency. One example is having AI speed up the process of reviewing contracts and assessing risk by doing a first pass and flagging things for humans to scrutinize.
“We currently use ChatGPT but will likely migrate to Document Crunch,” says Gaël Pirlot, vice president at Mableton, Ga.-based Inglett & Stubbs. “We have baseline exhibits with our general contractor partners that have been scrubbed by our executive team and lawyers and discussed with the respective GCs. These documents are used as the baseline for comparison with new project documents.
“For new GC partners, we typically start by scrubbing for financial exposure (fee, liquidated and consequential damages, retention, non-billable items, etc.), staffing requirements (safety and QA/QC minimums), BIM requirements (LOD), and schedule. These AI scrubs are the first pass but not the final pass. AI saves us approximately four hours per initial contract review.”
AI also can streamline the design process for engineers.
“[Over the] long term, AI will revolutionize how design, construction, and prefab are being approached,” says Tony Mann, CEO at Long Island City, N.Y.-based E-J Electric Installation Co. “AI-driven generative tools use algorithms to generate and optimize building component designs based on predefined constraints. This will allow for more efficient, cost-effective, and innovative solutions on projects.
“All of this is in the early stages here at E-J, but long term we envision that AI can handle preliminary design in a fraction of the time. It can do things like run multiple models for optimal routings, which is key for fast-track project delivery, and the projects will see the most cost-effective solutions.”
This efficiency also highlights how AI can help electrical and other trades address the chronic shortage of skilled workers.
At a time when an estimated 40% of the construction workforce will retire by 2030, AI can alleviate the burden on the remaining employees by reducing nonoptimal work, says Associated Builders and Contractors’ latest construction technology report, which focuses on AI.
AI also could help address equipment and material shortages.
“We are exploring predictive analytics where AI can help predict the exact quantity of materials required for prefabrication, minimizing waste and keeping a near-exact inventory,” Mann says. “AI will do this through analyzing historical
data and forecasting supply chain disruptions to optimize material procurement.”
Ferreting out waste is a use case that vendors are increasingly highlighting in the marketing for their AI and building information modeling (BIM) tools. By some estimates, up to 30% of building materials — and 6% of a building’s budget — are wasted due to misorders, errors, and rework. How can AI help? By automating the process of creating multiple design options, which humans then review to pick the one that best meets the project requirements. For example, one design might have a low material cost but a higher labor cost, while another might be the reverse. Having multiple designs to choose from helps identify the Goldilocks one.
“If you don’t know what options you have and the consequences of your
choices, you’re never going to make the right choice,” says Francesco Iorio, cofounder and CEO of Augmenta, whose initial AI agent is designed specifically for electrical.
But to offer all of those options, the AI tool must have access to all of the necessary information, including codes like the NEC. The internal information is somewhat easier because the electrical contractor or design firm already has it, whereas the external data might not be accessible if it’s in a format that the AI tool can’t use. For example, electrical equipment manufacturers will need to put their product catalogs and other information into formats that tools can use. They’ll also need to create application programming interfaces (APIs) so the tools can connect to those databases. And design firms also will need to convert their internal unstructured data into forms that AI can work with.
“We’re in the data governance and accumulation mode on this,” says Inglett & Stubbs’ Pirlot. “We have archived build types (build books) for each project completed over the last five years and formatted the data in a uniform and searchable manner. This data will be merged with defining project attributes and presented through Power BI. We are assessing the right project attributes to review. Our goal is to eventually use AI to predict and align prefab/modular capacity based on market outlook.”
Another use case involves collecting and analyzing data about an electrical network, such as the one in a building, a factory, or an office campus. This application could use machine learning (ML), which is a subset of AI that analyzes normal behavior so it knows what anomalies look like. Depending on how the system is designed, the AI either alerts humans or takes corrective action on its own, such as shutting down a circuit and rerouting power.
“It’s more prevalent in the [electric] utility side for optimizing the energy use of distributed energy resources (DERs),
but we have seen it applied in microgrid applications on commercial facilities, as well,” says Dan Webb, integrated automation technical director at Lenexa, Kan.-based Henderson Engineers. “[An example is] training a model to assess and predict control of the DERs.”
“Monitoring out-of-range or out-oftolerance variables is more in line with what we would refer to as advanced fault detection and diagnostics,” notes Webb. “It’s a fairly common use of ML in predictive analytics in regard to electrical systems, monitoring the various attributes of a system to create a model. It may be voltage, ampacities, or energy consumption, for example. From that model, equipment maintenance (predictive maintenance) schedules and equipment failure could be assessed.”
The AI monitoring these networks could be provided by an electrical contractor or design firm as part of a managed service contract.
“Predictive maintenance leverages AI to monitor and analyze the behavior of electrical systems, identifying problems before they lead to failures,” says Gaylor’s Goodrich. “This proactive approach can enhance system reliability and open new revenue opportunities for contractors by offering predictive maintenance as a service.”
Others agree.
“I think this is a definite possibility,” Pirlot says. “It requires us to set up an early relationship with the end user to install and have access to the proper
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monitor points. These points are available on smart grids by default but may not be available on the majority of our other builds. A digital twin is the ideal means of doing this, but there are easier means to get there.”
Monitoring and managing networks requires accurate, granular information about each component. This information can be used for additional applications.
“We’ve been involved in testing and exploring different kinds of algorithms to monitor network performance, predictive analytics, and things of that nature,” says Ed Sutton, enterprise evolution director of AI and innovation at Overland Park, Kan.-based Black & Veatch. “But I think it’s even more basic than that: Where are the assets? What condition are they in? Do I have good data? The scale and scope of these networks are growing, and the devices are getting changed out faster. You have environmental context with increasing large-scale weather events, and that compounds stuff. So we’re really seeing AI coming in helping make sense of the basics, such as asset management, and our testing is showing many downstream benefits from better supply chains, optimized maintenance, and data-driven capital planning; that really represents the pulse of the organization and its realtime operations.”
This information can inform the design process.
“Interconnects for solar and battery storage and stuff like that, you need grid data, and usually from multiple sources,” Sutton says. “’Do I have to upgrade this feeder because I want to bring X megawatts on? Can I trust the information I am using in my design?’”
Generative AI uses “natural language” or “large language” interfaces. These let users type everyday terms to tell the AI tool what to do, such as: “Show all of the options for running conduit on this floor.” There’s no shortage of off-the-shelf generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, but some electrical firms are developing their own.
“We’ve developed a quality management system (QMS) chatbot that basically brings to life typically ‘dry’ process and procedures into an interactive experience,” Sutton says. “[It’s to] help our employees have the right
For AI tools to be specifically useful for electrical professionals, they must have access to all of the necessary information, including codes from the NEC and all AHJs. Electrical equipment manufacturers will also need to put their product catalogs and other information into formats AI tools can use.
information at the right time so they can quickly look up: ‘What’s this process? What’s this checklist? What’s that procedure? Empowering professionals with tremendous amount of knowledge and trusted information in a way that is opening up a lot of potential for even more innovation.’”
Besides being highly customized for a firm’s particular needs, these homegrown AI tools also can improve cybersecurity by ensuring, for example, that company and client data don’t wind up in a public cloud or training a vendor’s AI tool.
“We generally use a RAG process, which uses OpenAI for the service, but the data is all private to our company,” says Brian Melton, Black & Veatch technology innovation lead for governments and communities. “We’re trying to leverage the technology, but the privacy and security piece is always in the back of our mind.”
Whether the tools are off the shelf or developed in-house, we need to think about integration with other platforms and technologies, such as building information modeling (BIM), which will unlock new types of capabilities and workflows.
“One of the things we found is AI becomes almost a commodity,” says
Greg Tanck, Black & Veatch project manager for operating assets data analytics. “That’s not really what makes a piece of software or an organization successful. It’s more about everything that goes into supporting that software, [such as] having a good workflow that makes it easy to interact with and to get out of it what you need so it’s not: ‘Stop what I’m doing, go do this AI thing, and then come back.’”
That’s one more example of AI’s learning curve.
“AI has been a hot topic, and its impact on the electrical contracting and design industries has been encouraging,” says Gaylor’s Goodrich. “Companies are reporting notable gains in efficiency and productivity. There are certainly instances where AI has streamlined construction processes. But, in my opinion, there needs to be more test results and white papers providing solid documentation. Although we’re still in the early stages, the opportunities for growth and innovation with AI in construction are immense.”
Kridel is an independent analyst and freelance writer with experience in covering technology, telecommunications, and more. He can be reached at tim@ timkridel.com.
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of the benefits of AI-enabled tools for electricians would be taking the same measurements across multiple sites and aggregating that data to generate historical reports and analysis.
TBy Sal Paraltore, Fluke
he electrical contracting industry is no stranger to innovation. From the adoption of digital multimeters to thermal imaging cameras, electrical contractors have consistently leveraged new technologies to improve accuracy, safety, and efficiency. As we stand on the cusp of the next technological revolution — artificial intelligence (AI) — the opportunities for further advancements are more significant than ever. AI is set to transform the tools of the trade, enabling smarter, safer, and more efficient work.
One of the core tasks for an electrician/technician is measurement — voltage, current, resistance, and beyond. Historically, these measurements have relied on the precision of the tools in hand and the expertise of the technician using them. But what happens when AI is introduced into this equation?
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AI, coupled with machine learning (ML), allows for the analysis of vast datasets at speeds and accuracies far beyond human capability. By recognizing patterns in data that might be invisible to the human eye, AI can enhance the precision of measurements and reveal insights that were previously unattainable. For instance, while the fundamental modalities of measurement (such as voltage or temperature) remain the same, AI can interpret the data from these measurements in new ways. This could mean identifying subtle anomalies in electrical systems before they become major issues, saving both time and money on repairs and downtime.
Moreover, AI can integrate data from multiple modalities (such as combining thermal imaging with voltage measurements) to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a system’s health. Imagine a tool that not only measures but also analyzes and predicts potential issues, offering recommendations on the spot. This isn’t science fiction; it’s the future of electrical work.
For electrical contractors, the most pressing question is often, “How will this make my electrician’s job easier or more efficient?” AI-powered tools promise to do exactly that.
Automating routine tasks: Many tasks that electricians perform are repetitive — taking the same measurements across multiple sites, for example. AI can automate these tasks, aggregating data, performing initial analyses, and even generating reports. This automation not only saves time but also reduces the potential for human error.
Enhancing safety: Safety is paramount in electrical work. AI can act as a second set of eyes, double-checking measurements, and ensuring that nothing is overlooked in the rush of a busy day. This added layer of safety is particularly valuable when working with high-voltage systems or in complex environments where multiple factors must be considered.
Simplifying complex analyses: Interpreting data, especially when dealing with complex systems, can be
challenging. AI simplifies this process by making inferences from the data collected, providing clear, actionable insights. For example, an AI-enabled tool might analyze power quality data in a commercial building and recommend installing a harmonic filter to prevent excessive heating in motors caused by harmonic distortion. It might also flag a specific voltage sag as a priority issue that needs immediate attention, ensuring the contractor addresses the most critical problems first.
Reducing training time: As AI tools become more integrated into the workflow, they can also help bridge the skills gap that exists in the industry. For newer technicians who may not have extensive experience with older systems, AI can provide guidance and suggestions, effectively acting as a “mentor.” For example, a new technician might use an AI-powered tool that detects poor connections based on resistance readings, guiding them to tighten connections in a breaker panel and suggesting the proper torque levels — ultimately offering guidance while reducing the learning curve.
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From an electrical safety standpoint, AI could aid electrical professionals in double checking measurements and making sure nothing is overlooked during a busy day, which adds an additional layer of safety when working on high-voltage systems or in complex environments, for example.
While the potential benefits of AI are immense, some challenges need to be addressed.
Ensuring reliability and safety: Electricians rely on their tools to be accurate and reliable. Any AI implementation must meet the same high standards as the physical tools themselves. This means rigorous testing and validation to ensure that AI does not introduce errors or overlook critical issues. For instance, AI-enabled tools would undergo validation tests by simulating various real-world electrical faults, such as arc faults and overloads, ensuring that the AI can consistently identify these issues under different conditions before the tools are deployed in the field.
Balancing innovation with usability: AI tools must be user-friendly. It’s not enough for a tool to be powerful if it’s too complex to use in the field. The key is to design AI interactions that feel natural — almost as if the AI is another colleague who’s knowledgeable and ready to assist without adding unnecessary complexity to the workflow.
Overcoming resistance to change: As with any new technology, there may be
resistance to adopting AI, particularly from those who have been in the industry for a long time and are comfortable with traditional methods. The challenge will be demonstrating the tangible benefits of AI in a way that convinces even the most skeptical users.
Despite these challenges, the future of AI in the electrical market is bright. Early adopters are already seeing the benefits of AI-enabled tools — from improved efficiency to enhanced safety. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more sophisticated tools that further integrate AI into the daily workflow.
One area of significant potential is in predictive analytics. AI’s ability to analyze historical data and predict future issues could be a game-changer, allowing contractors to address problems before they occur. This proactive approach not only improves system reliability but also reduces the stress and pressure associated with unexpected failures.
Moreover, as AI becomes more integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT), the interconnectedness of devices will allow for seamless data sharing and
more comprehensive system monitor ing. The companies that succeed in this new landscape will be those that not only build great tools but also understand the complex workflows of their custom ers and can help them solve problems through a combination of hardware, software, and AI.
AI represents the next frontier in tool innovation. By enhancing measurement accuracy, automating routine tasks, improving safety, and simplifying complex analyses, AI-enabled tools will empower contractors to work more efficiently and effectively. While there are challenges to overcome, the potential benefits far outweigh the risks. As we continue to develop and refine these technologies, the electrical contracting industry will be better equipped than ever to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Sal Paraltore is the vice president of products at Fluke, where he oversees product management and software operations across 10 business units serving both retail and industrial distribution markets globally.
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One of the most misinterpreted and misapplied NEC requirements in the electrical industry is power service to electric fire pumps. See why this problem should never occur due to the critical nature of a fire pump’s function.
By Brian E. Smith, The Engineering Enterprise
Whereas Part 1 of this three-part installment covered connections to and power sources for fire pumps (August 2024), and Part 2 dealt with disconnecting means, overcurrent protection, and transformers (October 2024), the final part of this series will address supply conductors, general wiring, and fire pump redundancy.
There are two categories of power supply conductors covered in Art. 695. The first is service conductors, which are conductors ahead of the fire pump disconnecting means on the electric utility source service. The second is feeder conductors, which are conductors on the load side of the fire pump disconnecting means or conductors that connect to an on-site generator. There are different requirements for each of these conditions, which you can find under Sec. 695.6(A) [Supply
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There are several options available when it comes to the routing of fire pump feeder conductors inside a building.
Conductors]. Here is what the Code says about service conductors.
“(1) Services and On-Site Power Production Facilities. Service conductors and conductors supplied by on-site power production facilities shall be physically routed outside a building(s) and shall be installed as service-entrance conductors in accordance with Sec. 230.6, Sec. 230.9, and Parts III and IV of Art. 230. Where supply conductors cannot be physically routed outside of buildings, the conductors shall be permitted to be routed through the building(s) where installed in accordance with 230.6(1) or (2).”
In the Figure above, the service conductors are labeled “Utility Service Lateral Conductors” or “Fire Pump Service Conductors.” Routing these conductors outside the building is easily accomplished if the main electrical room is at ground level, and the building is slab-on-grade construction with no basement levels. In this scenario, the conductors would be routed underground beneath the ground floor slab, which is considered outside the building per Sec. 230.6(1). It is more difficult to meet this requirement in a building with a basement level and the main electrical room is either in the basement or at the ground level. In my experience with electrical inspectors, they allow the service conductors to be routed exposed within the main electrical room if installed in rigid steel conduit. This is due to the Code allowance for an exception under the feeder conductors below, when located in the
electrical room where they originate, to not require the minimum 2-hour fire separation or fire-resistance rating within the same room.
If both the feeder conductors and the service conductors are in the same room, why would one requirement be more stringent than the other? This should be reviewed and signed off with your local electrical inspector before application. The alternative is to encase these conduits in concrete within the main electrical room, which would be difficult to achieve if suspended from the structure above.
The feeder conductors have several more options for routing within a building.
“(2) Feeders. Fire pump supply conductors on the load side of the final disconnecting means and overcurrent device(s) permitted by 695.4(B), or conductors that connect directly to an on-site standby generator, shall comply with all of the following:
“(1) Independent Routing . The conductors shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring.
“(2) Associated Fire Pump Loads The conductors shall supply only loads that are directly associated with the fire pump system.
“(3) Protection from Potential Damage. The conductors shall be protected from potential damage by fire, structural failure, or operational accident.
“(4) Inside of a Building. Where routed through a building, the conductors shall be protected from fire for 2 hours using one of the following methods:
“a. The cable or raceway is encased in a minimum of 50 mm (2 in.) of concrete.
“b. The cable or raceway is a listed fire-resistive cable system.
“c. The cable or raceway is a listed electrical circuit protective system.
“Informational Note No. 1: Electrical circuit protective systems could include, but are not limited to, thermal barriers or a protective shaft and are tested in accordance with UL 1724, Fire Tests for Electrical Circuit Protection Systems.
“Exception to 695.6(a)(2)(4): The supply conductors located in the electrical equipment room where they originate and in the fire pump room shall not be required to have the minimum 2-hour fire separation or fire-resistance rating unless otherwise required by 700.10(D) of this Code.”
The first thing to note is that the above applies to both the electric utility source and the standby generator source. The routing is independent of other electrical wiring in the building and cannot serve anything but associated fire pump loads. Where the feeder conductors are routed inside the building, they can either be concrete encased, a listed fire-resistive cable, or a listed electrical circuit protective system, which includes a 2-hour rated shaft construction of sheetrock and studs. The Code provides an exception to this requirement for feeder conductors routed within the main electrical room where the feeder originates and within the fire pump room. Outside of these rooms, if the feeder conductors cannot be routed underground, then one of the above methods would apply.
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This twice-a-month e-newsletter delivers the latest trends and information on electrical safety, reports on specific accidents in the field, and provides tutorials and evergreen safety content that can be used for reference and training.
Topics covered include:
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• Accidents and investigations
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See all of our EC&M e-newsletters at www.ecmweb.com
The supply conductors serving fire and jockey pump loads shall be sized no less than 125% of the sum of combined motor full-load current and 100% of any other associated fire pump accessory equipment. For fire pump-only load, the conductors shall be sized per Sec. 430.22.
Where the fire pump is a tapped service, the Tap Rule of Sec. 240.21 shall not apply because it relates to overload protection. The fire pump controller and ATS, if provided, shall not serve any other loads but the fire pump. Groundfault protection shall not be provided on any fire pump circuits.
When starting, the voltage on the line side terminals of the fire pump controller shall not drop more than 15%. This requirement is outlined in Sec. 695.7 [Voltage Drop].
“(A) Starting. The voltage at the fire pump controller line terminals shall not drop more than 15 percent below normal (controller-rated voltage) under motor starting conditions.”
While running, the voltage on the load side terminals of the fire pump controller shall not drop more than 5% when the motor is operating at 115% of full load.
“(B) Running. The voltage at the load terminals of the fire pump controller shall not drop more than 5 percent below the voltage rating of the motor connected to those terminals when the motor is operating at 115 percent of the full-load current rating of the motor.”
Most of the control wiring required for the fire pump operation does not fall under the electrical contractor’s scope of work. The control wiring between the fire pump controller’s transfer switch and the standby generator does. These requirements are as follows:
“695.14(F) Generator Control Wiring Methods. Control conductors installed between the fire pump power transfer switch and the standby generator supplying the fire pump during normal power loss shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring. The integrity of the generator remote start
circuit shall be monitored for broken, disconnected, or shorted wires. Loss of integrity shall start the generator(s).
“The control conductors shall be protected to resist potential damage by fire or structural failure. Where routed through a building, the conductors shall be protected from fire for 2 hours using one of the following methods:
“(1) The cable or raceway is encased in a minimum of 50 mm (2 in.) of concrete.
“(2) The cable or raceway is a listed fire-resistive cable system.
“(3) The cable or raceway is protected by a listed electrical circuit protective system.”
When starting, the voltage on the line side terminals of the fire pump controller shall not drop more than 15%. This requirement is outlined in Sec. 695.7 [Voltage Drop].
The preferred method would be to route the control wiring underground beneath the slab-on-grade, putting it outside the building. If not possible, the above aligns with the requirements for the feeder conductor routing, so the same would apply here. This Section does not include the exception that alleviates the requirement when routed within the fire pump room and the electrical room of origin. I assume that this was inadvertent, and the exception was meant to be included.
There is nothing specific addressing multiple fire pump installations in Art. 695. However, in each of the Code Sections addressed above, the reference to fire pump is made in the plural
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form [i.e., pump(s)]. The implication is that it not only applies to a single pump installation but also to multiple pump installations. It does not require duplication of what is installed for service to one fire pump at a second fire pump location. Assuming the service is sized appropriately to accommodate both pumps, it allows the installation of one fire pump to service the second fire pump.
For redundancy purposes, multiple fire pumps are required in high-rise construction when buildings are taller than 200 feet per the California Building Code (CBC), Chapter 4.
“403.3.2.1 Fire Pumps. Redundant fire pump systems shall be required for high-rise buildings having an occupied floor more than 200 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Each fire pump system shall be capable of automatically supplying the required demand for automatic sprinkler and standpipe systems.”
Redundant fire pumps are treated the same as primary fire pumps for both the power service and fire alarm monitoring. The only difference is the building service does not need to be sized to accommodate both pumps for simultaneous operation, as only one pump can operate at a time.
For even taller buildings, there may be a requirement for more than one primary fire pump to meet the pressure requirements on the upper floors. In this scenario, the primary pumps could operate simultaneously, requiring the service to be sized appropriately. However, each primary pump will require a redundant pump, and these pumps will not operate simultaneously with their associated primary pumps.
In the following application, there is a primary pump and a redundant pump, and both do not operate simultaneously. If the primary pump fails for any reason, the redundant pump starts and takes over. The Figure is a diagram of how these pumps should be connected, assuming a 12kV service to the building. There are occasions when additional primary pumps are required to maintain pressure in even taller buildings.
Note there is a single tap for both fire pumps, a single overcurrent protection device, and a single transformer for the
electric utility service. All of these are sized for a single motor, as both will not operate simultaneously. There are two non-fused disconnect switches (one for each fire pump) on the secondary side of the transformer. These are there for maintenance purposes only, allowing one fire pump to be disconnected without affecting the operation of the other. If there are no disconnects on the secondary side, the primary disconnect would need to be opened for work on the pump controller, making the generator the only source of power for the other fire pump. This arrangement has been accepted in the San Francisco Bay Area but should be verified with local inspectors elsewhere.
On the generator side, there are two overcurrent disconnect devices — one for each fire pump. Since these devices are sized for the normal operation of a motor, they will trip in an overcurrent or overheating scenario, so the failure of one pump does not disable the operation of the other pump.
There are occasions when additional primary pumps are required to maintain pressure in very tall buildings. For each of the primary pumps, there will be the need for a redundant pump. The example in the Figure would just grow to accommodate.
Hopefully, this three-part series provided you with a better understanding of electric-driven fire pumps and the interface with the electrical systems within a building. I know it is a topic of some controversy with many differing opinions, but my goal was to address the issue from a Code perspective and provide a simple solution.
Brian E. Smith has spent 48 years of his career with the electrical engineering consulting firm of The Engineering Enterprise, a California-based company. He can be reached at bes@engent.com.
**Reproduced with edits and permission of NFPA from NFPA 70*, National Electrical Code, 2017 edition. Copyright© 2016, National Fire Protection Association. For a full copy of the NFPA 70, please go to www.nfpa.org.
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How one electrical contracting firm is successfully attracting and retaining electrical professionals through a new flexible work model
Weifield Group has experimented with a new Flexible Work Initiative idea, which was developed with the input of numerous GC, architect, engineering and owner/developer partners in the firm’s regions. Weifield employees are reporting a high level of satisfac tion and performance under the new arrangement.
By Karla Nugent, Weifeld Group
It’s no secret that finding labor in the construction market is a serious challenge. The industry continues to struggle when it comes to replacing and finding workers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry is expected to need approximately 200,000 new workers in 2024 to address the workforce shortage — and about 151,400 openings for construction laborers and helpers are projected each year, on average, until 2032.
Recruitment is one of the highest hurdles in the industry today. As The New York Times journalist Jason M. Bailey wrote, “With the retirement of baby boomers in full swing, the construction industry is grappling with its biggest challenge: refilling its pool of employees. But it faces significant resistance among younger workers.”
A combination of factors seems to be contributing to the shortage. Although COVID-19 was one of those factors — U.S. Census Bureau data for September to November 2021 showed that between 6.8% and 8.4% of blue-collar workers from construction, transportation, and production moved to whitecollar professions — the labor shortage was an issue before the pandemic. A study by the Oliver Wyman Forum found that the desire for more work flexibility was a key motivation for
blue-collar employees to transition to a remote work job; it also said that almost four out of five who transitioned to remote work were successful.
Getting younger generations and individuals from diverse backgrounds into construction is tough not only due to the workat-home shift but also due to plenty of long-held (but incorrect) beliefs about the industry. These misconceptions include view ing construction as unsafe and blue-collar in nature while also being “behind the times” in the area of innovation. The truth is the construction industry is a multi-dimensional field that offers many interesting, rewarding, and fulfilling career opportunities without the burden of college debt. However, when looking at the core of the issue affecting prospective workers in the industry today, perhaps the largest source of dissatisfaction involves workers’ perception of how the industry’s demanding schedule may affect their day-to-day lives.
“Young salaried workers often become burned out because of the demanding hours and lack of flexibility in construction,” said Brian Turmail, vice president of public affairs and strategic initiatives for the Associated General Contractors of America.
As a result of the compelling data and research, Weifield Group is taking active steps toward industry-wide adoption
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of flexible work as a means of attracting and retaining talent. The reason is simple. Research shows that whoever solves the flexible work issue first will get the workers.
A pilot program run by flexible work consultancy Timewise evaluated flexible work schedules on job sites conducted by four major construction firms in the U.K.— Skanska UK, BAM Nuttall, BAM Construct, and Willmott Dixon, which collectively employ 11,000 people. Various schedules, individual days off, and staggered shift approaches were tested across a range of sites, including London’s HS2 high-speed rail infrastructure project. While none of the firms involved in the pilot reported a negative impact on budgets or schedules, workers reported numerous benefits in post-pilot surveys:
• Participants who felt their work hours gave them enough time to look after their health and wellbeing rose from 48% to 84%.
• Workers who regularly worked beyond their contracted hours decreased from more than half, to just over a third (51% to 34%).
• Workers’ sense of guilt decreased; the portion of workers who said they felt guilty if they started later or finished earlier than others on site fell from 47% to 33%.
• Trust in colleagues working remotely improved; the number of workers who agreed with the phrase “if someone who is able to, works from home, I am not sure they are working as hard as they would be on site,” fell from 48% to 33%.
“Our involvement in the Timewise flexible working trial aligns with our focus to support our people to be at their best and create inclusive environments that attract a wider diversity of people into the industry,” said Adrian Savory, CEO of BAM Nuttall. “The results of the pilots have demonstrated flexibility for operational roles is possible, and has been a win, win, win — for the business, teams, and for improving individuals’ wellbeing.”
Weifield Group Contracting, a leading multi-regional electrical contractor with headquarters in Centennial, Colo., has seen similar results in numerous projects where they have implemented a flexible work approach. Overall,
productivity on these jobs was at or above the predicted rates when using the flexible work model; in other words, the projects utilizing a flexible work schedule not only kept on par with our productivity expectations (did not have a significant downturn in productivity) but were likely a key factor in allowing us to exceed expected rates.
“Workers on jobs with flexible schedules save fuel costs and have more time for their lives,” said Dillon Flynn, a Weifield foreman. “The company also saves costs as workers are driving company vehicles 20% less during the week, and overtime and urgent makeup work can be scheduled on the fifth day — still allowing employees to have a regular weekend off. Additionally, there is higher production because you have to break down and set up materials and tools less frequently during the week. Most general contractors are very receptive to this model — none of the jobs I’ve worked with this schedule had any safety concerns, and they all achieved higher than average gross margins.”
This flexible working idea is not widely embraced by all; in fact, it is somewhat
of a taboo subject in the industry today. Research from ELECTRI International shows that 40% of workdays are comprised of “productive time.” Thus, eight-hour days yield 3.2 hours of productive time — versus 4 hours in a 10-hour day. Overall, you may be gaining a 0.8-hour increase in productivity for an extra two hours of pay.
However, the relentless schedule that persists in construction is a significant problem, especially for men. It restricts their ability to play a more active role in family life. It is also linked to poor mental health with some dark statistics: death from suicide among construction workers is 10 times more frequent than from accidents, and 25% of construction workers have considered taking their own lives. Adding to employee stress, many site workers face lengthy commutes as they move with projects, which further detract from their personal and family time.
Historically, the primary measure of success for construction projects has been: Was it delivered on time and within budget? This assessment often is in direct opposition to the well-being of workers, as there is a common perception that long hours and squeezing resources are
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Consider options for flexibility in every role (frontline workers as well as knowledge workers), taking guidance from HR teams to ensure fairness and inclusivity
Determine a clear vision that starts at the top with senior leaders advocating the benefits of flexibility and taking a proactive approach. Obtain owner buy-in of the vision before implementation begins.
Trial new approaches at a team level before embedding and scaling out successful learnings through guidance and training.
Be flexible in your approach and be prepared to make adjustments based on the specific requirements of your project or the project teams.
Equip managers with skills and capabilities to design flexible jobs that are suitable for managing both different site circumstances and flexible teams. Build in front-end intentional sequencing and scheduling of the full job so the optics demonstrate onsite action each day.
Measure the return on investment of flexible working in terms of project performance and productivity, at minimum ensuring it doesn’t have a detrimental effect on budget and timeline.
The company conducting the UK pilot, Timewise, strongly recommends that all firms carefully trial their plans to increase flexible working on one or two sites before rolling out.
“As a developer, I would implement a flexible schedule on projects — but I would need this to be a part of an overall complete project strategy by the General Contractor. I think it is incumbent on the General Contractor to prepare and communicate an intentional strategy and the value proposition as it is a difficult thing to explain to ownership without a clear plan of the schedule deliverables and associated worker hours to ensure full coverage. On our end, with a shrinking labor pool and the resulting lower quality and productivity, we are discussing how to achieve better outcomes with ground-up construction. This initiative to attract and retain workers is an interesting concept to address that.
The flowchart above from Timewise demonstrates a five-phased approach to implement a
the key to meeting targets. If there is a problem with the project, longer hours are often expected as a way to address it.
The pressure for projects to meet client deliverables has been a fundamental factor in the construction industry’s resistance to flexible working, but the U.K. pilot program uncovered that the fears are unfounded... the program demonstrated that flexible working can be implemented successfully on frontline operation construction sites with no detrimental effect on the budget or program. It also met its goals of improving wellbeing and initiating a positive shift in attitudes to flexible working.
The perceived issues around flexible work can be managed by setting proper expectations and executing a sound process — but, in general, most have to try this type of work model a few times to see the benefits. Some obvious benefits of this model include:
• Flexible work is good for increased production. Certain projects have time-intensive requirements that are better absorbed with an extended workday (e.g., workers who have to take a lift for 30 minutes to get to the floor of
a high-rise building they are working on, can spend more time working once they reach that floor).
• It is good for morale. Field crews tend to like flexible work as they enjoy a three-day weekend, each week.
• It is more efficient. Working one less day per week results in reduced gas costs to travel to and from work, less downtime for picking up and laying out, and one less day on the job to be exposed to potential safety hazards.
• It better satisfies client requirements. Utilizing a model such as “rolling 4/10s” (where crew members all work four 10-hour days per week with overlapping crews to cover all five days of the work week) works better to accommodate client requirements.
• It allows for more make-up work/ better training. A rolling 4/10s model allows supervisors to utilize the fifth day for any weather-related makeup work or desired OT by the owner/general contractor, and key training as needed throughout the project.
• It can be a powerful differentiator. A company with the willingness and ability to execute this type of flexible environment demonstrates higher proficiency in planning, scheduling, and communication, which, if described
and documented well, could be used as a strong differentiation point between companies during sales or negotiation. Owners want to work with sophisticated companies that are highly skilled at execution.
To implement a flexible schedule model, Timewise suggests a five-phased approach that starts with creating a clear vision and obtaining owner buyin, working with HR to determine options for flexibility in every role, training leaders on how to manage flexible teams, conducting trials of the new approach before rolling out universally and measuring the impacts to budget and schedule on those trial projects (see the Flowchart above for more details).
Andrew Cook, superintendent for Balfour Beatty Construction, decided to move to a “4/10s” schedule on his commercial full-floor, 36,000-square-foot office space project in Charlotte, N.C. As the general contractor, Cook had the authority to make the work schedule decision; all of the trades had to follow the plan, yet Cook was present on-site for the entire five-day work week.
“I found this schedule beneficial to me, personally, because this quieter time
on Fridays gave me time to do paperwork, look at the schedule, walk the job, and see phases I wanted to see,” said Cook. “I was able to look ahead and plan, which is hard to do with a job site full of subcontractors.”
He also noted the schedule significantly improved team morale and reduced costs. “It saved us two hours each week on start-up and shutdown time, not having to do that the fifth day. In the end, we were ahead of schedule and received our TCO one day early, which was huge.”
Meredith Wardwell, Centura Health’s senior director of design and construction, was in charge of oversight for a new construction integrated project delivery (IPD) project at Centura Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colo. This was a two-phase project encompassing six stories and including the emergency department, operating rooms, sterile processing department, NICU, intensive care unit, and medical/surgery areas of the hospital.
The hospital team decided to implement a flexible 4/10s work schedule on the project to provide a better working environment for the craftworkers due to the extra day off, per week. Because construction for the project fell in the summer into hunting season, the extra day off per week was a big motivator for many of the crew members.
“We positioned it like this to the crew — if you are able to knock out your scope of work in 4/10s — you have a three-day weekend, and you hit the ground running the following week,” said Wardwell. “If you don’t hit your milestones and everyone
is waiting on you, Friday is your makeup day. They really rose to the occasion, and it worked great for us.”
The results of the flexible work trial were clear: Overall, the project came in 6% under budget and the team was able to fund wish list items based on that savings adding greater value to the project.
“Ultimately, this project provided opportunity and buy-in for all trades,” said Wardwell. “If possible, I would implement flexible work on every project.”
If construction businesses begin taking a different view toward creating a new working model, flexibility will make a huge difference in a sector that hasn’t evolved much in a long time. The shift starts with thinking about outcomes rather than hours spent at work as well as actively challenging traditional perceptions and mindsets about how work needs to be performed in the construction industry.
Employers in the electrical industry that are willing to explore new ways of collectively recruiting and retaining talent, can ensure the well-being and performance of individuals and teams while protecting the future of our industry.
For more information on Weifield Group’s Flexible Work Initiative, visit www.weifieldcontracting.com/flexible-workinitiative/.
Karla Nugent is a founding partner and chief revenue officer of Weifield Group.
Why the growing need for advanced electrical infrastructure in data centers is powering the AI revolution
IBy Bob Crain, Cablofil
n the rapidly evolving landscape of data centers, electrical and digital infrastructure serves as a foundational element — much like concrete and steel are essential for constructing a building. Just as these materials provide the structural integrity of a building, electrical and digital infrastructure is crucial for the functionality and efficiency of data centers.
As industries adapt to increasing demands for data processing, driven by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, the need for resilient and scalable infrastructure becomes paramount. Electrical contractors play a crucial role in delivering these advancements, ensuring that data centers can meet operational demands effectively.
To thrive in this advanced environment, several key factors must be addressed, including integrating high-capacity power systems and efficient cooling solutions, and creating the flexibility to adapt to future technological changes. These considerations not only enhance performance but also position data centers for long-term success. Let’s take a look at the main areas in which electrical contractors can futureproof data centers for the evolving needs of AI applications.
The surge in AI workloads demands an unprecedented level of computational power, driving energy consumption to new heights. In this dynamic landscape,
a robust electrical infrastructure becomes essential — not just for powering the servers that run AI systems but also for fueling the cooling systems, which are crucial for preventing overheating. As these workloads evolve in complexity, data centers must innovate and adapt their electrical systems, ensuring they can deliver consistent performance while maximizing energy efficiency. This transformation is key to supporting the future of AI, where performance and sustainability go hand in hand.
The ability for data centers to scale continues to rapidly become crucial. Facilities designed before the AI era often struggle to adapt to this exponential growth without the right scalability options in place. A robust digital infrastructure facilitates the seamless integration of new technologies and the expansion of resources without necessitating major overhauls. This scalability is vital for accommodating the ever-evolving needs of AI applications, empowering organizations to stay competitive in today’s data-driven landscape.
AI applications require real-time processing and low-latency communication, making high-speed networking and advanced digital infrastructure crucial. Electrical contractors play a vital role in designing and implementing systems that facilitate rapid data transmission, which is essential for effective analytics and decision-making.
This need for low-latency interactions becomes even more critical in AI-driven applications, particularly those deployed at the edge, such as IoT devices. Unlike traditional applications where minor latency might be tolerable, AI systems demand immediate data access and processing to deliver timely insights and responses. By ensuring robust electrical and digital infrastructures, contractors enable the successful deployment of AI technologies across various applications.
Minimizing downtime in AI systems is crucial, as any interruption can lead to significant productivity losses. A robust electrical and digital infrastructure is vital for ensuring the availability of backup systems, power supplies, and network paths. Electrical contractors are instrumental in creating reliable systems that guarantee continuous operation, which is paramount for organizations that depend on AI-driven insights and decision-making.
As AI workloads continue to grow in density, advanced cooling solutions have become essential for effectively managing heat output. A well-designed electrical infrastructure must seamlessly integrate cooling systems to maintain optimal operating conditions, ensuring that data centers can support high-performance AI applications without the risk of overheating.
As companies expand their footprint in the data center space, they are increasingly investing in research and development to innovate and enhance solutions focused on energy efficiency, cutting-edge cooling technologies, and smart infrastructure. This commitment allows them to align their offerings with the evolving demands of AI workloads. To meet these needs, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive portfolio of products specifically designed for data centers. This includes some solutions such as cable management systems, advanced racks, cooling solutions, power distribution units, and monitoring systems — all featuring modular designs for easy scalability.
AI applications generate and analyze vast amounts of data, necessitating effective digital infrastructure for data storage, retrieval, and management. Data centers must implement robust solutions that support the entire life cycle of data — from ingestion and storage to training and deployment of AI models. This comprehensive approach is critical for enabling organizations to leverage their data effectively.
With AI systems managing some of the world’s most sensitive data, it’s crucial to incorporate robust security measures into the digital infrastructure. This includes both physical security for hardware and cybersecurity protocols to ensure data integrity. Data centers must take a holistic approach to security, integrating both physical and cyber protections to safeguard their critical assets.
As AI systems become more integral to data center operations, the need for robust safety and security protocols grows. Electrical contractors should consider integrating advanced access control systems, biometric scanners, and surveillance tools to protect the facility. Additionally, environmental monitoring solutions for detecting temperature fluctuations, humidity, or water leaks can prevent damage to sensitive equipment and data.
The rapid expansion of AI in data processing has made the need for advanced electrical infrastructure in data centers more critical than ever. Electrical contractors are essential in this transformation, ensuring data centers can manage the significant power demands, scalability challenges, and operational complexities brought about by AIdriven technologies.
By integrating high-capacity power systems, innovative cooling solutions, and robust security measures, contractors can future-proof data centers for the evolving needs of AI applications. As the landscape shifts toward greater computational intensity and real-time processing, the expertise of electrical contractors will be essential in building reliable, efficient, and scalable infrastructures that support the ongoing AI revolution. In this rapidly advancing era, the collaboration between data centers and skilled electrical contractors will be the key to driving performance, sustainability, and longterm success.
Bob Crain is director marketing/product development at Cablofil. He is a registered electrical engineer in the state of Illinois with 35 years of experience working for several leading U.S. cable tray manufacturers.
The company’s MC cable fittings are now listed for tray cable and steel and aluminum flexible metal conduit. The fittings are available in a variety of sizes. Each fitting has a built-in end-stop and additional end-stop bushings that accommodate different-sized cable bundles. One trade size is designed to fit several cable sizes. If required, using an end-stop bushing is fast and easy because there is no need to remove the strap — just loosen the screws and insert the bushing that works best with the cables being installed in dry locations.
Arlington Industries
The new ASTM F887 Arc Flash-rated bungee-style tool tether securely anchors a user’s tools while minimizing entanglement risk by shortening their length when stored. Made from a Kevlar®/ Nomex® blend, the product provides superior heat and burn resistance than regular nylon or polyester options, allowing your tools to stay tethered, and workers below safe, even in the harshest conditions, according to the company. Additional features include a Kevlar cord loop for quick attachment and a 27-in. tether. Guardian
Fast Trak is a pre-fabricated trapeze bracket solution offering speed, flexibility, and efficient use of space, for the installation of electrical containment, piping, ductwork and other mechanical services, especially in restricted spaces. The bracket can be moved up and down the tracks to accommodate changes in position during installation and tracks bend neatly under bracket. The four-sided bracket provides suspension point on every face and indicators at each end of the bracket offer reference points when marking fixing points on the ceiling. Finally, level markers are on the tracks at every 5 slots (2 ¼-in. increments) for easy leveling without tools.
Gripple
The company has launched a direct-toconsumer website that allows users to customize systainers with over 1,000 color combinations for the body, lid handle, and catch. The wide range of customization options offers users a more personalized and functional storage solution. Labels and accessories can also be added to the product to personalize the fitout. In addition to the customization options, customers can browse the full catalog of company products on the new website.
Systainer USA
The company has expanded the Lumaris tape light family to include a new RGB + tunable white tape and a new 5-channel controller native to company control systems. Lumaris tape light solutions make it easy for pros to install and program vivid layers of light in popular tape applications like undercabinet, cove, vanity, and more. The enhanced solution includes a new LED tape and controller, purpose-built for Lutron RadioRA 3 and HomeWorks QSX systems. The tape light features a 1,800K to 4,000K tunable white light range, with dimming down to 0.1%, saturated colors via RGB, and 90+ CRI, 200 lm/ft.
Lutron
The company’s low-profile universal protective cover (LPC-12MA) fits most 1-gang and 2-gang device rings as well as most multi-gang and adjustable mud rings. LPC-12MA prevents mortar, drywall compound, debris, paint, and router bits from entering the junction box or damaging conductors or wiring devices. Gangable cover features snap-off corner tabs for troublefree seating in 2-gang rings. The product’s unique keyhole slots easily slide onto device ring screws. According to the company, the product protects most receptacle types as well as Decora-style switches. Users can remove the center knockout and pair with UPCTS for toggle switch applications.
Orbit Industries
The WCT-700 underground wire tracer and circuit finder is designed for tracing cables up to 7 ft underground, locating breaks or tracing a circuit back to the breaker. The product has manually adjustable sensitivity that allows for finding a cable down to 6-in. radius. The product is also equipped with dual backlit LCD screens with both audible and visual signal strength readouts and works on live or dead wires, with a CAT III 600V rating and a live voltage readout. Finally, seven signal modes and three signal strengths make locating breaks fast and easy, and the product’s durable construction provides 2 m of drop protection.
Jonard Tools
Designed for indoor or outdoor use, the hard-wired Level 2 EV charger can be installed in garages or mounted to an exterior wall for use in driveways or carports. The charger comes ready-to-wire right out of the box and requires no internet connection or software. As a Level 2 charger, the unit offers a faster charge while the adjustable amperage — from 16A up to 48A — allows users to control the energy usage to fit their specific EV model and charging needs or preferences. An Energy Star-certified product, this Level 2 EV charger is also eligible for rebates and incentives.
Legrand
The Mega coil is designed to enhance a user’s pre-fabrication operations. The Mega coil holds 2.5-times more footage in a single pallet position compared to other options, according to the company. The product pulls clean and easy while keeping its shape throughout use. With even longer, continual metal-clad runs, processes are streamlined, and scrap is reduced. The Mega coil contains more footage for longer, continuous runs, is available in 12/2 MC/ AL and 14/2 MC/AL SOL & STR, is easy to set up, and saves floor space.
Encore Wire
Augmenta has announced a partnership with ENG to provide automated electrical design modeling solutions for the construction industry. As part of the partnership, the company revealed commercial availability of the first-ever AI design solution that enables design automation for electrical subcontractors. The new partnership combines Augmenta’s AI technology and ENG’s BIM expertise in a co-branded solution for subcontractors. The proprietary cloud-native design platform automates the creation of sustainable building models that account for the complex and diverse requirements of stakeholders. Paired with ENG’s experience in electrical modeling, joint customers will benefit from superior building models with less risk and more accurate project outcomes, according to the companies.
Augmenta and ENG
The company has launched a 400A meter main load center along with a 300A model. This addition to the product line is designed to meet the growing demand for larger electrical services in large-scale residential applications, highly electrified homes, and future-proofing installations. Each unit comes with a factory-installed main breaker, available in either 200A or 150A and features a 12-space distribution section, often used for easy wiring of outdoor circuits. The panel’s utility compartment includes a 320 Class (400A) meter socket, a 5th jaw factory installed, a lever bypass, and a ringless cover. The load centers also include feed-thru lugs and a secondary main breaker mounting section, allowing contractors to customize the total amperage to a maximum of 400A.
Leviton
Square D offers the new metal-clad switchgear SureSeT that enables end users to digitally control and monitor their medium voltage equipment in a compartmentalized and compact footprint. SureSeT switchgear offers a two-high circuit breaker design in a narrow 26-in.-wide footprint and is powered by EvoPacT, the company’s newly designed MV vacuum circuit breaker.
Schneider Electric
The requirements for flexible cords and fixture wires differ from those of Chapter 3 wiring methods.
By Mike Holt, NEC Consultant
Article 400 covers the general requirements and applications for flexible cords as contained in Table 400.4. Article 402 covers the general requirements for fixture wires.
A “flexible cord” is two or more insulated conductors enclosed in a flexible covering [Art 100] (Fig. 1).
The NEC does not consider flexible cords to be a wiring method like those addressed in Chapter 3 because they are not used as part of the wiring in the construction of a building.
Flexible cords (and their fittings) must be suitable for the use and location [Sec. 400.3]. The use of flexible cords must conform to the descriptions in Table 400.4. The suffix “W” at the end of a flexible cord type designates it is sunlight resistant and suitable for wet locations [Table 400.4, Note 9].
Flexible cords with conductor stranding other than Class B or C require the use of terminations specifically identified for the stranding in the flexible cord or cable [Sec. 110.14].
Table 400.5(A)(1) lists the ampacities for individual conductors inside manufactured flexible cords. Table 400.5(A)(2) lists the ampacities for overall cord assemblies with not more than three current-carrying conductors in an ambient temperature of not more than 86°F.
Flexible cords within the scope of Art. 400 can be used for [Sec. 400.10]:
(1) Pendant boxes [Sec. 314.23(H) (1)], pendant lampholders, pendant luminaires, and pendant receptacles [Sec. 210.50(A)].
(2) Wiring of luminaires [Sec. 410.24(A) and Sec. 410.62(B)].
(3) Connection of portable luminaires, portable and mobile signs, or appliances.
(4) Elevator cables.
(5) Wiring of cranes and hoists.
(6) Connection of utilization equipment to facilitate frequent interchange [Sec. 422.16].
(7) Prevention of the transmission of noise or vibration [Sec. 422.16].
(8) Appliances where the fastening means and mechanical connections are specifically designed to permit ready removal for maintenance and repair, and the appliance is intended or identified for flexible cord connections [Sec. 422.16]. Appliances fastened in place cannot be connected by a flexible cord unless the
appliances are specifically identified to be used with a flexible cord [Sec. 422.16].
(9) Connection of moving parts. Attachment plugs are required for flexible cords used on portable luminaires, portable and mobile signs, or appliances [Sec. 400.10(A)(3) and Sec. 422.16]; utilization equipment to facilitate its frequent interchange [Sec. 400.10(A)(6) and Sec. 422.16]; and appliances specifically designed to permit ready removal for maintenance and repair and identified for flexible cord connection [Sec. 400.10(A)(8) and Sec. 422.16].
USES NOT PERMITTED
Unless specifically permitted in Sec. 400.10, flexible cords, cord sets (extension cords), and power-supply
Fig. 2. Article 402 covers the general requirements for fixture wires.
cords are not permitted for the following [Sec. 400.12]:
(1) As a substitute for fixed wiring.
(2) To be run through holes in walls, ceilings, or floors.
(3) To be run through doorways, windows, or similar openings.
(4) To be attached to building surfaces.
Exception to (4): Flexible cords used for temporary wiring [Sec. 590.4] may be attached to building surfaces.
(5) To be concealed by walls, floors, or ceilings, or above suspended or dropped ceilings.
Exception to (5): Flexible cords and power-supply cords are permitted if contained within an enclosure for use in other spaces used for environmental air as permitted by Sec. 300.22(C)(3).
(6) To be installed in raceways, except as permitted by Sec. 400.17.
(7) Where they are subject to physical damage.
Flexible cords must be installed continuously without splices or taps in Sec. 400.10(A) applications [Sec. 400.13]. If the cord isn’t long enough to reach the receptacle from where the appliance is situated, you can use a longer cord, move the appliance, or install a receptacle closer to the location.
Flexible cords must be connected to devices and fittings so that tension is not transmitted to joints or terminals [Sec. 400.14]. This can be accomplished by knotting the cord, winding it with tape, or using support or strain-relief fittings. Generally, using a strain-relief fitting is the best option. It will result in a more professional look than knotting or taping. But there may not be a suitable strainrelief fitting readily available — or there may be some other reason to tape or knot. Flexible cords must be protected by bushings or fittings when passing through holes in covers, outlet boxes, or similar enclosures [Sec. 400.17]. To avoid damaging the flexible cord jacket, use bushings or fittings suitable for the size of the cord.
If the strain relief, bushing, or fitting has a saddle clamp or similar, don’t tighten down on it so much that you squash the cord jacket. It merely has to be snug. For any such items, orient the screw heads to facilitate tightening (or loosening) the screws. Avoid positioning it such that special tools (such as offset screwdrivers) must be used. In many cases, a rotation of just 30 degrees makes the difference between a good installation and a bad one.
Article 402 covers the general requirements for fixture wires (Fig. 2).
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Note: See Part VI of Art. 410 for application in luminaires.
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Fixture wires must be a type contained in Table 402.3 [Sec. 402.3].
The ampacities of fixture wires are in Table 402.5. They range from 18 AWG for 6A to 10 AWG for 28A. You may have noticed that the list doesn’t go below 18 AWG. Any wire smaller than that cannot be used as fixture wire [Sec. 402.6]. Also, note those are minimums; you are free to use a larger size fixture wire if it is compatible with the terminations and connectors being used.
Raceways must be large enough to permit the installation and removal of conductors without damaging the conductors’ insulation [Sec. 402.7]. The number of fixture wires in a single raceway must not exceed the percentage fill specified in Chapter 9, Table 1. When all conductors within a raceway are the same size and insulation, the number of conductors permitted can be found in Annex C for the raceway type.
Fixture wire used as a neutral conductor must be identified by continuous white stripes [Sec. 402.8].
Fixture wires are permitted for [Sec. 402.10]:
(1) Installation in luminaires and similar equipment where enclosed or protected and not subject to bending or twisting in use.
(2) Connecting luminaires to the branch-circuit conductors.
You can also use fixture wires for elevators and escalators [Sec. 620.11(C)], and for Class 1 PowerLimited Circuits [Sec. 724.49(B)]. But you cannot use them for branch-circuit wiring [Sec. 402.12].
Flexible cords, flexible cables, and fixture wires must be protected from overcurrent by Sec. 240.5(A) or Sec. 240.5(B):
• Protect flexible cord and flexible cable with an overcurrent device based on their ampacity as specified in Table 400.5(A)(1) and Table 400.5(A)(2). Protect fixture wire against overcurrent as specified in Table 402.5. Supplemental overcurrent protection, as covered in Sec. 240.10, is an acceptable means of providing this protection [Sec. 240.5(A)].
• Protect flexible cord, where supplied by a branch circuit, per one of the methods described in Sec. 240.5(B) (1), (3), or (4). Protect fixture wire, where supplied by a branch circuit, per Sec. 240.5(B)(2) [240.5(B)].
The short version of those protection methods:
(B)(1). The cord is approved for and used with a specific listed appliance or luminaire.
(B)(2). The fixture wire is tapped to the branch-circuit conductor (AWG minimums apply).
(B)(3). The flexible cord is applied within extension cord limits.
(B)(4). The flexible cord in extension cords with separately listed and installed components can be supplied by a branch circuit (20A circuits, 16 AWG, and larger).
It’s helpful to keep in mind that the requirements for flexible cords and fixture wires are not in Chapter 3. For this reason, don’t try to use them as substitutes for Chapter 3 wiring methods. They are an adjunct to those methods, forming a bridge between premises wiring and certain types of utilization equipment.
When installing flexible cords and fixture wires, remember that a trade-off in gaining flexibility is you lose some of the inherent self-protection that a Chapter 3 wiring method has. It takes a lot more force to damage a conductor that’s run inside an EMT than it takes to damage a relatively thin and exposed flexible cord or fixture wire. This has implications for such things as strain relief and routing.
These materials are provided by Mike Holt Enterprises in Leesburg, Fla. To view Code training materials offered by this company, visit www.mikeholt.com/code.
How much do you know about the National Electrical Code?
By Mike Holt, NEC Consultant
All questions and answers are based on the 2023 NEC.
Q1: Fire alarm circuit cables and conductors installed exposed on the surface of ceilings and sidewalls shall be supported by _____, hangers, or similar fittings designed and installed so as not to damage the cable.
a) straps c) cable ties
b) staples d) any of these
Q2: Article _____ covers the general requirements for the installation of single- and multiple-conductor cables used in Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited circuits, power-limited fire alarm (PLFA) circuits, and Class 4 fault-managed power circuits, and optical fiber installations.
a) 722 c) 724
b) 723 d) 725
Q3: Enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices are allowed to have conductors feeding through where the wiring space at any cross-section is not filled to more than of the crosssectional area of the space.
a) 20% c) 40%
b) 30% d) 50%
Q4: For Class I locations where Sec. 501.140(A)(5) is applied, flexible cords shall be from the power source to the temporary portable assembly and from the temporary portable assembly to the utilization equipment.
a) permitted to be spliced
b) of continuous length
c) installed in a metal raceway
d) spliced only using listed splicing kits
Q5: For FMC, shall be installed where flexibility is necessary to minimize the transmission of vibration from equipment or to provide flexibility for
equipment that requires movement after installation.
a) an equipment grounding conductor
b) an expansion fitting
c) flexible nonmetallic connectors
d) adjustable supports
Q6: The grounding electrode conductor connection shall be made at any accessible point from the load end of the overhead service conductors,
to the terminal or bus to which the grounded service conductor is connected at the service disconnecting means.
a) service drop
b) underground service conductors
c) service lateral
d) any of these
See the answers to these Code questions online at ecmweb.com/55238300.
By Russ LeBlanc, NEC Consultant
All references are based on the 2023 edition of the NEC.
I often see transformer installations where the installer uses a white wire as the system bonding jumper. Is this permitted? Or is it a violation? Well, let’s look at some of the applicable rules.
Section 310.6 outlines requirements for grounded conductors, equipment grounding conductors, and ungrounded conductors. For insulated grounded conductors, we are referred to Sec. 200.6. For equipment grounding conductors, we are referred to Sec. 250.119. And for ungrounded conductors, we are referred to Sec. 310.8(B)(1), Sec. 210.5(C), and Sec. 215.12(C). But none of these sections applies to a system bonding jumper.
Could the system bonding jumper be black, red, or blue? Yes, it could. There are no Code rules that prohibit the use of these colors or any other colors typically reserved for ungrounded conductors. Can the system bonding jumper be green? Yes, it can. Section 250.119 states conductors with green insulation cannot be used for grounded conductors or ungrounded conductors but does not prohibit system bonding jumpers from being green. Finally, can the system bonding jumper be white? No, it cannot. For circuits of 50V or more, Sec. 200.7(C) restricts the use of white or gray insulation to
only grounded conductors unless part of a cable assembly where the insulation is reidentified for use as an ungrounded conductor or in flexible cords used for connecting appliances or equipment per Sec. 400.10.
This installation is pretty old and was probably completed way before the 2023 Code existed, but it still makes for good discussion. I spotted this same type of installation in several planters along a public sidewalk. When I looked at previous editions of the Code, I learned that many revisions have happened over the years addressing the enclosures for receptacles installed in wet locations. In 1987, Sec. 410.57(b) stated “a receptacle installed outdoors where: exposed to weather or in other wet locations shall be in a weatherproof enclosure, the integrity of which is not affected when the receptacle is in use (attachment plug cap inserted).” In 2008, Sec. 406.8(B)(1) was revised to require all 15A and 20A, 125V and 250V nonlocking receptacles in wet locations to be listed as weather-resistant type. Section 406.9(B)(1) of the 2023 edition requires 15A and 20A, 125V and 250V receptacles installed in a wet location to have an enclosure that is weatherproof whether or not the attachment plug cap is inserted. The exception permits the use of enclosures that are weatherproof when the attachment plug is removed to accommodate routine high-pressure spray washing. While this installation may or may not have been Code-compliant when it was originally completed, it does not comply with today’s requirements.
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Lower
Fault
Durable
(Every
By Russ LeBlanc, NEC Consultant
How well do you know the Code?
Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn’t identify? Here’s your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else’s work from the safety of your living room or office. Can you identify the specific Code violation(s) in this photo? Note: Submitted comments must include specific references from the 2023 NEC.
Hint: Donuts and apples do not belong here.
‘TELL
Using the 2023 NEC, correctly identify the Code violation(s) in this month’s photo — in 200 words or less — and you could win a $25 Amazon gift card. E-mail your response, including your name and mailing address, to russ@russleblanc.net, and Russ will select one winner (excluding manufacturers and prior winners) at random from the correct submissions. Note that submissions without an address will not be eligible to win.
Our winner this month is Walt Tom, an IT professional and owner/operator at WCT Computer Systems in Terre Haute, Ind. He knew that this closet was a bad location for a the installation of this electrical equipment.
In addition to not having the required working space clearances specified in Sec. 110.26, the location of this enclosed panelboard in a linen closet full of ignitible materials is a violation of Sec. 240.24(D). This rule prohibits overcurrent devices, such as the circuit breakers in this enclosed panelboard, from being located near easily ignitible material. Although just out of view near the bottom of the picture, other items on the floor make it difficult to get close enough to the panelboard to safely access circuit breakers. This creates a violation of Sec. 240.24(A), which requires overcurrent devices to be “readily accessible.” Readily accessible is defined in Art. 100 as “capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to take actions such as to use tools (other than keys), to climb over or under, to remove obstacles, or to resort to portable ladders, and so forth.”
No burn-through eliminates elbow repairs
Lower material and installation costs
Fault resistance makes repairing cables easy
Durable and corrosion-resistant for project longevity
