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The Electrical Inspector

 

    In some areas he might generically be called the "Fire Underwriter". This no doubt dates back to when the "Fire Underwriters" were the only individuals involved in inspecting Electrical wiring and equipment. Nowadays there are many different agencies (this varies by location) that are involved in inspecting premises wiring and equipment.

    The Electrical Inspector is the person most often entrusted with the sometimes thankless job of inspecting premises wiring and equipment for compliance with Locally accepted codes and standards. He (or She) is a person (or member of an Agency or Organization) that is recognized by the "Authority Having Jurisdiction" as being Qualified and Responsible to inspect (and often make judgments) concerning the Safety and Compliance of Electrical Installations in that Locality. Although this Inspection is often avoided if possible, We cannot overemphasize the safety value (and peace of mind) of having any Electrical Installation inspected and evaluated by a Recognized Expert in the Field. 

    The most common "Code" that is referenced is the NEC (National Electrical Code). This Code is the product of many Experts and knowledgeable Contributors from numerous fields and is widely considered to represent the Standard for Safety in Electrical Installation. Although the NEC is this widely revered, it's acceptance as "Code" in any given Locality is not automatic. It is up to each Municipality to establish a set of guidelines with regard for Public Safety. In many Localities the NEC is adopted verbatim, as the Guideline for Electrical Safety and without reservation. Some areas may have made slight local "amendments and addendums" to the NEC that are considered by them as necessary for additional safety or because of some local characteristic or condition. 

    Now, even with the adoption of the NEC in it's entirety, there may still be some situations where these rules are not enough, or need some modification. The final judgment on any point is left up to the "Authority Having Jurisdiction" (which has delegated this responsibility to the Electrical Inspector). Often inspections and evaluations must be performed on concealed or otherwise inaccessible wiring and here is where the intuition and experience of the Inspector must be relied upon to guarantee an installation free from hazards. Their job is an Important Necessity for Electrical Safety, their services should be sought after and their efforts should be applauded.

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