Elzappr:
I agree. Here is the proposal that was sent in for the 2002 NEC. The Reject is supported by a technical reason from the code panel.
(Log #2760)
1- 207 - (110-3(c)): Reject
SUBMITTER:
RECOMMENDATION: Add new text:
Permanent wiring abandoned in place shall be tagged or otherwise
identified at its termination and junction points as "Abandoned in
Place" or removed from all accessible areas and insulated from
contact with other live electrical wiring or devices.
SUBSTANTIATION: Electrical fire safety section 3-2.4 in NFPA 1
Fire Prevention Code should be added to NEC 2002.
PANEL ACTION: Reject.
PANEL STATEMENT: The submitter has not provided any
substantiation to address such a broad requirement. The
establishment and enforcement procedures concerning
maintenance requirements and identification of electrical
equipment not in use is better left to other codes and documents
such as NFPA 1.
NUMBER OF PANEL MEMBERS ELIGIBLE TO VOTE: 13
VOTE ON PANEL ACTION:
AFFIRMATIVE: 11
NEGATIVE: 1
NOT RETURNED: 1 Macias
EXPLANATION OF NEGATIVE:
ANTHONY: This seems to me to be a modest proposal. It does
not require removal of old cable which, while recommended, is not
always practical. It simply asks for them to be tagged from this point
forward. Furthermore, it is theoretically possible - though,
admittedly unlikely - that voltages can be induced in abandoned
cables in proximity to energized cables. A combustible material in
contact with a live end could pose a fire hazard.
