What is “The Code”?

“According to code …” and “The code says …”, are things that you may have heard at one time or another when talking to a plumber, HVAC technician, or an electrician about installations or repairs that are going to take place in your home. So, what is “The Code”?

The code refers to a document that has been produced by an organization involved with the type of work being performed. It is rooted in health, safety, and protection for the end user and for those that may service the systems that have been installed. Safety is the name of the game here. For the electrical industry, our code book is the National Electrical Code (NEC) also known as NFPA70. NFPA is National Fire Protection Association. This group is the owner of many codes and standards that are focused on safety, health, and fire prevention. 

The NEC is the widely adopted set of standards that all electrical professionals in the building trades are tested by for licensure in the United States. It is the document that building officials and inspectors use as the base line for inspecting installations; also, it is referenced to if something were to go to a court hearing. The NEC is revised every 3 years by representatives from associations within the industry with the use of public input as well. So contrary to popular belief, the revisions in the Code are not a way to make more money for mega corporations through mandates and stricter product requirements, but instead to keep up with technology changes, consumer/product demands, and a result of unfortunate injuries and fatalities. 

Needless to say, the NEC is a very important legal and technical document that every electrical professional must have an understanding of its requirements. Though these requirements may not always seem practical or convenient, just remember, there is always someone’s life that is on the line.