Test & Measurement

Tip of the Week: Understanding the Arrangement of NFPA 70

March 9, 2015

There are big differences between the NFPA 70 (the NEC) and NFPA 70E.

Last week, we looked at similarities between the NFPA 70 (the NEC) and NFPA 70E. But there are also big differences between these standards. The most obvious is the difference in size; the NEC has about nine times as many pages. Its sheer size can be intimidating; how can you possibly know what’s in it?

Though its arrangement shares similarities with that of 70E, the NEC has nine chapters versus the three in 70E. The first four of those chapters apply to every installation. The next four apply to specific types of installations, and the last one is all tables.

The first four chapters are pretty much in work flow order. And you don’t have to apply every article in each chapter. If you’re a heavy NEC user, then over time you’ll know which articles you need (e.g., you’ll skip Article 215 and go to Article 230 if you are installing a service). If you’re not at that point, use the Table of Contents to identify the applicable articles. The work flow order makes this much easier than it would otherwise be.

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.