National Electrical Code

NEC Requirements for Fire Pumps

May 5, 2020

Summing up Art. 695

Article 695 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) has a different philosophy from other Articles. A fire pump exists to protect people and property; it can be sacrificed if necessary. The pump must run (almost) no matter what. That’s the framework on which Art. 695’s rules were written. The main goal is to ensure fire pump availability.

Motors in other applications have overload protection. Fire pump motors do not. The OCPD might stop the pump to protect the supply conductors, however. The rules for selecting the OCPD [695.4(B)(2)] have been rewritten with the 2020 revision. One thing that hasn’t changed is the OCPDs “must be rated to carry indefinitely” specified currents. Another thing that hasn’t changed is that the overcurrent protection must be an assembly listed for fire pump service.

The disconnect must be lockable in the closed position and must be identified for use as service equipment [695.4(B)(3)]. Keeping the disconnect locked except when it needs to be opened for maintenance will reduce the chance of unauthorized disabling of the pump. It will also prevent a possible arc blast if trespassing kids try to open that switch under load.

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.