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Ecmweb 7544 Nec Logo 2013promogifcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1
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Ecmweb 7544 Nec Logo 2013promogifcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1pngcropdisplay1

Tip of the Week: The Practical Safeguarding of Persons and Property

June 29, 2015
Article 90 of the NEC will help you understand why the Code was created and what it covers.

Article 90 precedes Chapter 1 of the NEC. Is it just boilerplate fluff, or should you become familiar with it? The answer is self-evident once you begin reading it.

Article 90 explains important concepts, such as:

The purpose of the NEC. Understanding why we have the NEC in the first place goes a long way toward being able to apply it properly. A misunderstanding of its purpose is at the heart of many “code conflicts” in real applications.

Its scope. Do you really know what the NEC covers and doesn’t cover? This, like its purpose, is an area commonly misunderstood.

How it’s arranged. Can you name the supplemental chapters? Do you know what the NEC means by this? Do you know which Chapter isn’t subject to Chapters 1 through 4 except where specifically noted?

The differences between mandatory rules, permissive rules, and explanatory material. Can you explain these off the top of your head?

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.

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