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Disclaimer
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When Electricians talk about
"The Code" they are most always talking
about the National Electrical Code. There are others, but this is the most widely
referenced. The National Electrical Code (NEC) is the product, and
responsibility of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and has been
for almost 100 years. It's "open, consensus-based process" ensures
that each new code requirement or revision has a justifiable concern (for public
safety) and reflects current knowledge and technologies. From it's simple,
generalized beginnings, "the Code" has grown to more than 1000 pages
and is the Labor of roughly 350 volunteer members and alternates and numerous
concerned contributors.
The origin of the NFPA can be traced back to Boston, 1895, when "a
small group of concerned professionals" met to address the problem of inconsistencies
in the design and installation of Fire Sprinkler Systems. The NFPA was brought
into existence the following year (1896). According to it's original articles: "Membership
shall consist of Stock Fire Insurance Organizations, and representatives of such
organizations, having charge of the improvement and inspection of risks."
It wasn't until 1904 that the Articles were amended to allow non-insurance
related individuals as members. The National Electrical Contractors Association
(NECA) was among the first "outside" organizations to join as an
active member. Today over 6,000 volunteers serving on 200 technical committees
administer over 300 different NFPA codes and standards. The organization has
over 65,000 members in 70 countries and it's Codes and Standards are among the
most widely referenced in the world today.
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