56 Modern Commercial Wiring Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Finding Code Rules The Code provides two ways to fi nd specifi c information: the table of contents at the begin- ning of the book and the index at the end of the book. The table of contents is an overall outline of the Code arranged by chapters. The chapters are listed along with their component articles. If the article has two or more parts, these are shown as well. The index is an alphabetical listing by subject matter that indicates the article and section (and pages) where the information is located. This is the best place to begin a search on a specifi c topic. Code Intent Within Article 90—Introduction, the purpose and scope of the Code is defi ned. The clear intent is to provide information for the safeguarding of persons and property against electrical haz- ards. Compliance with the Code prevents fi re hazards, but will not necessarily result in an effi cient system adequate for the intended use. The rules and regulations found within the Code are not mandatory or legally required unless the local authority accepts the Code for such purposes. The Code is recognized throughout the United States (as well as many other countries) as a legal basis of safe electri- cal design and practice. It is used extensively in courts and by insurance agencies in making legal judgments. The Code must be understood by all those involved in the industry. In scope, the Code is applicable to almost all electrical work, both indoors and outdoors. This includes, but is not limited to, residences, apartments, offi ce buildings, marinas, the- aters, fl oating buildings, mobile homes, and CODE ALERT The Purpose of the NEC According to Section 90.1(A), the NEC is not intended as a design specifi cation nor an instruction manual for untrained persons. industrial facilities. The Code addresses not only design basics and requirements, but installation rules, equipment requirements, and product acceptability. Code Enforcement The Code is mandatory in most localities. This makes it the legally required document for those involved in design and installation of electrical systems. Code enforcement is usually performed by local inspection agencies. Inspectors are authorized to interpret, modify, or waive spe- cifi c Code requirements. Many inspectors are members of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI). They have tremen- dous responsibility and must exercise their task with great care, consideration, and expertise. Numerous Code references are made within this text. If you do not have a current copy of the Code, get one. Copies can be obtained at your local bookstore or directly from the National Fire Protection Association. In addition, the NFPA publishes other useful and relevant standards: • NFPA 30 & 30A—Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code • NFPA 70B—Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance • NFPA 70E—Handbook for Electrical Safety in the Workplace • NFPA 72— National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code Handbook • NFPA 77 Recommended Practice on Static Electricity • NFPA 99—Health Care Facilities • NFPA 101—Life Safety Code • NFPA 780—Installation of Lightning Protection Systems. Exceptions and Informational Notes As with any set of rules and regulations, the Code has numerous exceptions and notes that further explain or modify rules under certain condi- tions. Sections of the Code may include excep- tions and informational notes. See Figure 4-18.