What is National Electrical Code (NEC)?
National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of regularly updated standards for the safe installation of electric wiring in the Americas. First published in 1897, the NEC is updated once every three years.
The NEC provides guidelines for electrical installation to prevent fires and other electrical accidents. Electricians and contractors must be aware of NEC standards where applicable to ensure that installations are safe, legal and up to code. The codes are a part of the National Fire Protection Association.
Despite its authoritative positioning and national title, NEC standards are not federal law. Local governments either adopt NEC standards or create and enforce their own electric code. Contractors and electricians must be aware of the different codes in every environment.
A major consideration in the design of a data center is whether the Information Technology Equipment space will comply with Article 645 of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Article 645 covers equipment, power supply wiring, equipment interconnecting wiring, and grounding of information technology equipment and systems. NEC articles can be a controversial issue when it comes to the data center. Certain articles of code, such as the requirement for multiple emergency power off buttons, or e-stops, have been the cause of accidental downtime.
