electrical codes standards recommended practices and regulations an examination of relevant safety considerations pdf

Electrical Codes, Standards, Recommended
Practices and Regulations

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Electrical Codes, Standards,
Recommended Practices
and Regulations
An Examination of Relevant Safety Considerations
Robert J. Alonzo P.E.

AMSTERDAM  BOSTON  HEIDELBERG  LONDON  NEW YORK  OXFORD  PARIS
SAN DIEGO  SAN FRANCISCO  SINGAPORE  SYDNEY  TOKYO
William Andrew is an imprint of Elsevier

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William Andrew is an imprint of Elsevier
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First edition 2010
Copyright ª 2010, Robert J. Alonzo. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved
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the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
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This book and the individual contributions contained in it are protected under copyright by the Publisher
(other than as may be noted herein).
Notices
Knowledge and best practice in this field are constantly changing. As new research and experience broaden
our understanding, changes in research methods, professional practices, or medical treatment may become
necessary.
Practitioners and researchers must always rely on their own experience and knowledge in evaluating and
using any information, methods, compounds, or experiments described herein. In using such information or
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material herein.
British Library Cataloguing in Publication Data
Alonzo, Robert J.
Electrical codes, standards, recommended practices and regulations: an examination of
relevant safety considerations.
1. Electrical engineering–Safety measures.
2. Electrical engineering–Safety regulations.
3. Electrical engineering–Standards.
I. Title.
621.3’0289-dc22
Library of Congress Control Number: 2009938942

ISBN: 978-0-8155-2045-0
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Contents
Preface ........................................................................................................................xi
Acknowledgments ...................................................................................................... xiii
Chapter 1: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How? ........................................... 1
Codes .................................................................................................................................... 2
Standards .............................................................................................................................. 3
Recommended Practices ...................................................................................................... 4
Who, What, Where, When, and How.................................................................................. 5
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) ............................................................ 6
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)........................................................ 9
International Organization for Standardization........................................................... 12
Association of Edison Illuminating Companies (AEIC) ............................................ 16
American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE).................................................. 18
American Petroleum Institute (API) ........................................................................... 18
ASTM International..................................................................................................... 20
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)...................................................................... 22
Council for Harmonization of Electrotechnical Standards of
the Nations of the Americas (CANENA) ................................................................... 23
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America ................................................. 25
The Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society............................................ 26
FM Global.................................................................................................................... 31

Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE)............................................. 32
Insulated Cable Engineers Association, Inc. (ICEA) ................................................. 34
NACE International ..................................................................................................... 36
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)........................................... 38
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)............................................................. 41
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) ......................................................................... 44
Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA).......................................... 46
References .......................................................................................................................... 50

Chapter 2: American versus Global .......................................................................... 55
Standards Harmonization ................................................................................................... 63
Standards Comparison........................................................................................................ 63
Thermal Overload Relays............................................................................................ 68
Electrical Classified Area Equipment ......................................................................... 69
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Equipment Enclosure Differences............................................................................... 71
Conclusions ........................................................................................................................ 75
References .......................................................................................................................... 77

Chapter 3: The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) ................................................ 79
AHJ Adopted Codes and Standards................................................................................... 80
Building Codes ............................................................................................................ 81
Electrical Code ............................................................................................................ 82
Fire Codes.................................................................................................................... 84

Life Safety Code.......................................................................................................... 86
AHJ Process ....................................................................................................................... 87
Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) ...................................................... 89
Owner Authority Having Jurisdiction................................................................................ 89
Federal Authority Having Jurisdiction .............................................................................. 91
The Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission .............................................. 95
State Jurisdiction and State Plans ...................................................................................... 96
References .......................................................................................................................... 98

Chapter 4: Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs)........................... 101
Listed NRTLs ................................................................................................................... 102
Definitions ........................................................................................................................ 104
NRLT Standards Development ........................................................................................ 106
References ........................................................................................................................ 107

Chapter 5: Common Threads .................................................................................. 109
Common Threads ............................................................................................................. 109
NFPA 101, Life Safety Code – Common Threads........................................................... 110
Adoption of NFPA 70, National Electrical Code ........................................................... 112
Low-Voltage Power Distribution and Service Entrance Equipment ............................... 112
Surge Protection Devices (SPD) ...................................................................................... 126
Disconnect Switches ........................................................................................................ 127
Circuit Breakers Operating at 1000 Volts or Less........................................................... 129
Ground Fault Protection Devices..................................................................................... 131
Electrical Equipment Terms Review ............................................................................... 132
Switchgear ........................................................................................................................ 133
Panelboards....................................................................................................................... 133
Transformers..................................................................................................................... 134
Motor Control Center (MCC) – 600 Volts ...................................................................... 134
Personal Protective Equipment ........................................................................................ 136

Busway ............................................................................................................................. 139
References ........................................................................................................................ 140

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Chapter 6: CFR 1910 versus CFR 1926 ............................................................... 143
US Department of Labor.................................................................................................. 143
Hazardous Energy Control............................................................................................... 147
Energy Control Program .................................................................................................. 153
1910.147(c)(2) Lockout/Tagout................................................................................. 153
1910.147(c)(3) Full Employee Protection................................................................. 154
Energy Control Procedures .............................................................................................. 154
Protective Materials and Hardware.................................................................................. 155
Periodic Inspection........................................................................................................... 156
Training and Communication .......................................................................................... 157
Tagout System .................................................................................................................. 160
Employee Retraining........................................................................................................ 160
Energy Isolation/Notification of Employees ................................................................... 161
Control Application.......................................................................................................... 161
Release from Lockout/Tagout.......................................................................................... 164
Additional Requirements ................................................................................................. 164
Group Lockout or Tagout/Outside Personnel (Contractors, etc.) ................................... 165
Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution ........................................... 166
US Department of Energy (DOE).................................................................................... 172
References ........................................................................................................................ 178

Chapter 7: Developing Electrical Safe Work Practices............................................ 183
General ............................................................................................................................. 183
Safe Operating Procedures............................................................................................... 184
Work Task Permit Requirements............................................................................... 185
Documentation Requirements ................................................................................... 188
Lockout/Tagout Procedures ....................................................................................... 188
Safety System Bypassing .......................................................................................... 188
Operating or Energized Equipment Work Procedures.............................................. 189
Safety Inspection and Testing Requirements............................................................ 190
Work Experience and Training Requirements .......................................................... 190
Safety Equipment Requirements ............................................................................... 190
Static Electricity Generation Prevention................................................................... 192
Fire Watch Requirements .......................................................................................... 192
Minimum Lighting Levels......................................................................................... 193
Compliance Audits .................................................................................................... 193
Safe Work Practices ......................................................................................................... 194
Lockout/Tagout .......................................................................................................... 194
Work on Energized Equipment ................................................................................. 195
Clearances and Approach Distances ......................................................................... 195
Alerting Techniques................................................................................................... 197
Energized and De-Energization of Power Circuits................................................... 197
Work Near Overhead Power Lines............................................................................ 197

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Confined Work Spaces............................................................................................... 198
Conductive Materials, Equipment, Tools, and Apparel............................................ 198
Housekeeping Duties ................................................................................................. 198
Protective Equipment and Tools................................................................................ 199
Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Considerations............................................... 199
Welding ...................................................................................................................... 199
Batteries ..................................................................................................................... 202
Motor Control ............................................................................................................ 203
Medium- and High-Voltage Equipment .................................................................... 204
Molded Case Circuit Breaker Panels ........................................................................ 205
Wiring Connections ................................................................................................... 206
Cord Sets and Attachment Cords .............................................................................. 207
Electrical Receptacles................................................................................................ 208
Light Fixtures............................................................................................................. 209
Rotating Equipment................................................................................................... 209
Wiring Considerations ............................................................................................... 210
Conduit Seals and Fittings......................................................................................... 210
Energized Equipment ................................................................................................ 211
References ........................................................................................................................ 211

Chapter 8: Motors, Generators, and Controls ........................................................ 213
Motors and Generators General Types ............................................................................ 215
Single-Phase Induction Motors........................................................................................ 219
Equipment Specification Preparation............................................................................... 220
Motor and Generator Standards ....................................................................................... 221
Motor Control and Protection .......................................................................................... 221
Overload Relays ............................................................................................................... 240
DC Manual and Magnetic Controllers............................................................................. 242
AC Combination Motor Controllers ................................................................................ 242
Adjustable Speed Drives .................................................................................................. 244

Harmonic Mitigation ........................................................................................................ 249
References ........................................................................................................................ 253

Chapter 9: Electrical Hazardous (Classified) Area Design and Safe
Work Practices ..................................................................................... 257
Area Classification Boundaries........................................................................................ 264
Equipment Temperature ................................................................................................... 266
Hazardous Area Equipment ............................................................................................. 268
Definitions: Flammable and Combustible Gases and Vapors Equipment
Protection Techniques ...................................................................................................... 270
Explosionproof........................................................................................................... 277
Purged and Pressurized.............................................................................................. 278
Intrinsically Safe Circuit ........................................................................................... 278

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Nonincendive Circuits ............................................................................................... 279
Encapsulation............................................................................................................. 279
Flameproof................................................................................................................. 285
Increased Safety......................................................................................................... 287
Powder Filling............................................................................................................ 290
Type of Protection ‘‘n’’ Techniques .......................................................................... 290
Oil Immersion............................................................................................................ 290
Definitions – Combustible Dust, Fibers, and Flyings Protection Techniques ................ 291
Dust-ignitionproof ..................................................................................................... 291

Dusttight..................................................................................................................... 291
Hermetically Sealed................................................................................................... 293
Hazardous (Classified) Area Equipment Standards......................................................... 293
North American Equipment Markings ............................................................................ 293
Zone Equipment Markings............................................................................................... 296
References ........................................................................................................................ 300

Chapter 10: Wire, Cable, and Raceway ................................................................. 305
General ............................................................................................................................. 305
Definitions ........................................................................................................................ 305
Conductor Material .......................................................................................................... 307
Insulation Material ........................................................................................................... 308
Ampacity .......................................................................................................................... 309
Power and Control Cables ............................................................................................... 310
Communications Cable .................................................................................................... 339
Ethernet Cabling............................................................................................................... 343
Instrumentation Cable ...................................................................................................... 354
Power-Limited Tray Cable (PLTC)........................................................................... 356
Instrumentation Tray Cable (ITC)............................................................................. 357
Fire Alarm Cable ....................................................................................................... 357
Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Cable ................................................................ 358
Ethernet and Optical Fiber Cables ............................................................................ 358
Temperature Detector Cables .................................................................................... 358
Electrical Raceway, Conduit, and Cable Tray................................................................. 359
Cable Support and Restraint Systems.............................................................................. 364
References ........................................................................................................................ 373

Chapter 11: Transformers, Capacitors, and Reactors ............................................. 375
Transformers..................................................................................................................... 375
Transformer Classifications.............................................................................................. 376

Voltage and Power Ratings .............................................................................................. 378
Transformer Tests............................................................................................................. 381
Resistance Test........................................................................................................... 381
Winding Turns Ratio Test ......................................................................................... 381

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Polarity and Voltage Vector Diagram Tests .............................................................. 382
No-Load Loss and Exciting Current Tests................................................................ 383
Impedance Loss Tests................................................................................................ 383
Temperature Tests (Heat Run)................................................................................... 385
Dielectric Tests .......................................................................................................... 385
Reactors ............................................................................................................................ 386
Transformer and Reactor Standards .......................................................................... 386
Power Capacitors.............................................................................................................. 394
References ........................................................................................................................ 403

Chapter 12: Electrical Transmission and Distribution Systems ............................... 405
Power Distribution System Design Considerations......................................................... 406
Power Generation Considerations.................................................................................... 408
Electrical Transmission Systems ..................................................................................... 415
Electrical Distribution Systems........................................................................................ 426
Transmission and Distribution Systems Considerations ................................................. 426
Overhead Line Support Structures ............................................................................ 426
Transmission and Distribution Hardware and Equipment........................................ 433
Electrical Substations ................................................................................................ 447

Substation, Transmission, Distribution, and Transformer Grounding...................... 464
References ........................................................................................................................ 466

Appendix A: Type of Products Requiring NRTL Approval ....................................... 469
Appendix B: Occupational Safety and Health Administration Occupational
Safety and Health Standards – 29 CFR ............................................. 471
Appendix C: Comparison 29 CFR 1910.269 versus 29 CFR 1910.147
Hazardous Energy Control Requirements ............................................ 473
Appendix D: Occupational Safety and Health Administration Standard
Interpretations 29 CFR 1910.6; 1910.147; 1910.147(c)(4)(ii) ...... 487
Index ....................................................................................................................... 493

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Preface
It is intention of this text to provide the reader assistance in developing a basic understanding
of the complex issue of codes, standards, recommended practices, and regulations for
electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution in residential, commercial,
industrial, and utility applications. General information is provided on the Canadian and
American Standards Development Organizations (SDOs) responsible for the development of
codes, standards and recommended practices. Basic outlines are also provided for standards
development procedures; code enforcement areas; general code categories; and exposure of
some titles for electrical engineering standards for power generation, transmission, and
distribution in North America and internationally. Regional SDOs in Europe, Central and
South America, and the Pacific Rim area were not examined in detail. The International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
SDOs are examined in some detail.
Information on the SDOs discussed was developed in part from the Internet websites for those
organizations. Should additional information on those organizations be desired, the reader is

referred to the SDO websites listed for those organizations in Chapter 1. The listed websites
may also be used to research and purchase specific SDO standards documents.
Electrical generation, transmission, and distribution codes, standards, and recommended
practices encompasses a large area of information. Some general codes, standards, and
recommended practices information was utilized in some discussions; however, the reader
should refer to those documents in total when attempting to develop information. SDO
websites can be used to provide standards outline information, indexes, and normative
references. That information can be extremely helpful in conducting general research in the
selection and use of equipment and installation standards.
Codes, standards, and recommended practices are documents that are continually being
created, revised, reaffirmed, or withdrawn. It is incumbent upon the reader to verify the latest
code, standard, or recommended practice document number, title, validity, and effective
issuance date from the appropriate Standards Development Organization sources. The
standards titles presented in this book include many of the most commonly used documents
involving the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical energy in 2009. The

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standards titles were developed using Internet search engines, references in documents, and
other means. The titles presented in this book do not represent all of the codes, standards, or
recommended practice titles presently available on a specific topic, nor do they necessarily
represent the latest effective title information. The standards titles presented here should not
be used as a sole source for standards document information and are presented only for
general information, as well as the general education and use of the reader. Any discussion of

specific information on standards presented in this book should not be construed as an official
explanation of that document. The reader should always review the latest edition of any
standard document in its entirety.
The standards development procedures presented here should only be considered as general
outlines of those SDO procedures as of the information available in August, 2009 and should
only be used for general information purposes. SDOs have written procedures governing the
submittal of new standard proposals and the revisions to or the withdrawal to existing
standards. Copies of those procedures should be available from the SDOs or their websites.
SDO websites were used in obtaining some information in this book. The websites listed as
references were operational as of November, 2009. Neither the author nor the publisher can be
responsible for changes to available information on those websites.
The impetus behind the preparation of this book was to assist individuals assigned with the
task of developing electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution equipment and
materials specifications. An important segment of that work normally would include listing of
Referenced Standards. Specifications are sometimes prepared using the term All Applicable
Codes and Standards in its Referenced Standards section. That statement could be interpreted
by individuals differently, according to their experience and education. Listing of specific
applicable equipment or materials standards titles in the preparation of codes, standards, and
recommended practices will provide a better definition of equipment or materials specified.
Information contained in this work has been obtained by the author from sources believed to
be reliable. However, neither the publisher nor the author guarantee the accuracy or
completeness of any information contained herein. The author and publisher shall not be
responsible for any errors or omissions in this publication. They will not be responsible for any
damages arising out of the use of the information contained herein for any purpose. The author
and publisher are supplying general information only in this work, and are not rendering any
engineering or professional services or opinions. Any standards interpretations questions
should be referred to the Standards Development Organization responsible for that standard.

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Acknowledgments
I would like to thank the following individuals for their help in the proof reading of chapters in
this book.
Forrest M. Lotz, Jr, P.E
Charles A. Darnell, P.E

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CHAPTER 1

Who, What, Where, When,
Why, and How?
My initial idea in writing this book was to limit its coverage to the electrical engineering
codes, standards, recommended practices and regulations used in the United States. However,
research, quickly revealed how the international harmonization of codes, standards, and
recommended practices throughout the world has impacted international trade. With the
increased globalization of trade and worldwide electrical product development competition,
the importance of the development of flexible, cooperative, consensus-driven harmonized
American standards has become evident. To assure the continued sale of American exports
throughout the world, the United States government must continue to use their influence and
cooperation with foreign governments to assure the continued development of voluntary,
consensus, internationally accepted American standards.

In the past, the international recognition and use of US codes and standards readily allowed
the worldwide sale of American goods and services. However, with the emergence of the
European Union and other regional trade organizations, the necessary compliance of
American goods and services with local standards requirements and certifications has become
challenging. Many emerging economies have adopted ISO and IEC standards. The growth of
the use of ISO and IEC standards has challenged US competitiveness.
The electrical engineering codes, standards, and recommended practices examined in this
book will include those generally involved with voluntary, consensus standards in electrical
power generation, transmission, and distribution in both utilities and residential/commercial/
industrial facilities. It will also examine the codes and standards used for the wire and cable
aspects for power transmission and distribution. Specific communications, instrumentation,
data processing, aviation, marine, automotive/trucking, mining, and railroad equipment
aspects will not be examined. Limited shipboard, communications, and instrumentation
cabling codes and standards will also be examined.
Anyone associated with electrical design or construction projects has been exposed to the
terms codes, standards, and recommended practices. Exactly what do those terms imply? They
may imply different things to different individuals, depending upon the individual’s
experience, training, and responsibility. To anyone in a governmental capacity, the terms may
Electrical Codes, Standards, Recommended Practices and Regulations; ISBN: 9780815520450
Copyright ª 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights of reproduction, in any form, reserved.

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Chapter 1

convey compliance with the legislatively mandated regulations and requirements before

a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued on a project. To a design engineer involved with
a project, it may mean fulfilling their professional responsibility to assure compliance with
public safety requirements. To a state fire marshal, they may mean assuring life safety aspects
during a structure fire development. Depending upon the occupancy type, it might also mean
assurance that specified safety systems will provide automatic notification of the appropriate
governmental agencies of a fire or other catastrophic event.
The development of codes, standards, and recommended practices is often necessitated
because of substantial loss of life and property or severe personal injuries related to
a problematic faulty design or construction/fabrication practices. The development of codes,
standards, and recommended practices can be promulgated by industry/manufacturing
groups; engineering or professional societies or organizations; or governmental agencies.
The promulgating entity will establish a committee comprised of representatives of
companies, professionals in the field, academia, and other interested parties, to establish the
minimum criteria that will be considered to assure public safety. Implementation of those
criteria can be by industry-accepted, voluntary agreements or by Authorities Having
Jurisdiction.
On November 28, 1942 a fire occurred at the Cocoanut Grove Night Club in Boston. A total of
492 fatalities resulted from that fire, which was attributed to ignition of combustible
decorations by a busboy lighting a match. It was reported that approximately 1000 occupants
were in the building at the time of ignition. At that time there were no maximum occupancy
requirements as exist today. Most fatalities were the result of inadequate operable exterior
exits. The nightclub had only one operable exterior exit, the main entrance revolving door. All
other doors were previously bolted shut or bricked over during prohibition. This fire was
a motivating force, leading to the development and enforcement of building codes, not only in
Boston, but in other cities throughout the United States.
Before proceeding with the examination of some specific codes, standards, and recommended
practices, some time must be taken to examine the significance of those terms.

Codes
The Merriam–Webster On-Line Dictionary [1] defines a code as ‘‘a systematic statement of

a body of law; especially: one given statutory force; a system of principles or rules.’’ The most
recognized Electrical Engineering Code in the United States is the National Fire Protection
Association’s NFPA 70Ò, National Electrical CodeÒ (NECÒ). Although it is generally
accepted as a nationally accepted consensus code in electrical engineering, it must still be
adopted by individual legislative bodies, mandating its acceptance and use by law to the
Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

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The Authority Having Jurisdiction could be a governmental entity, which through legislative
enactment, can mandate by law, adherence to specific engineering practices or codes. For
example, a municipal government may mandate that a certain edition of the National Electrical
Code be adhered to in the design of structures. Before a building Certificate of Occupancy can
be granted, the municipal code enforcement agency must assure that the applicable portions of
the approved edition of the NECÒ were followed in the design and construction of the structure.
Under that scenario, a governmental regulation or law mandated the use of a code.
The National Electrical Code will be reviewed; however, a more detailed examination of that
Code will be pursued in Chapter 5. The NECÒ is considered an open-consensus document.
Anyone can promulgate a change to that document or submit a public comment. All such
proposals and comments are subject to intensive review. A review and amendment process of
the Code is conducted automatically over a three-year cycle. Proposals for change are
submitted, reviewed, debated, and voted upon by members of the Code Committee, with final
approval by the NFPA Standards Council. Any approved changes are included in the next
edition of the document.
The National Fire Protection Association, the organization responsible for the publication of

the NEC, indicates:
The National Electrical Code has become the most widely adopted code in the United States – it
is the standard used in all 50 states and all U.S. territories. Moreover, it has grown well beyond
the borders of the United States and is now used in numerous other countries. Because the code
is a living document, constantly changing to reflect changes in technology, its use continues to
grow. [2]

Standards
A very good definition of standard is presented in the beginning of ANSI/IEEE Standard 80,
IEEE Guide for Safety in AC Substation Grounding. That document was produced by the Institute
of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and approved as a national consensus standard
by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The following statement was written by
the Secretary, IEEE Standards Board in the ‘‘Foreword’’ to that document. It stated:
IEEE Standards documents are developed within the Technical Committees of the IEEE
Societies and the Standards Coordinating Committees of the IEEE Standards Board. Members
of the committees serve voluntarily and without compensation. They are not necessarily
members of the Institute. The standards developed within IEEE represent a consensus of the
broad expertise on the subject within the Institute as well as those activities outside of the IEEE
which have expressed an interest in participating in the development of the standard.
Use of an IEEE Standard is wholly voluntary. The existence of an IEEE Standard does not
imply that there are no other ways to produce, test, measure, purchase, market, or provide other

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Chapter 1
goods and services related to the scope of the IEEE Standard. Furthermore, the viewpoint
expressed at the time a standard is approved and issued is subject to change brought about

through developments in the state of the art and comments received from users of the standard.
Every IEEE Standard is subject to review at least once every five years for revision or reaffirmation. When a document is more than five years old, and has not been reaffirmed, it is
reasonable to conclude that its contents, although still of some value, do not wholly reflect the
present state of the art. Users are cautioned to check to determine that they have the latest
edition of any IEEE Standard. [3]

The above explanation clearly illustrates the difference between a code and a standard. Use of
a standard is wholly voluntary, whereas the use of a code may be voluntary or mandated by
law. Also, a standard does not mandate that there is only one way that a product or procedure
can be engineered. That may not necessarily be the case with a code. The IEEE Standards
Committee allows any proposed change request to be submitted by any interested party, either
by IEEE members or others. Also, proposed changes to a code involve public notification of
the proposed changes for rigorous review. That process may or may not be employed to that
extent for changes to a standard promulgated by other standard making organizations,
particularly organizations associated with special interest groups such as manufacturers.
Standards adopted by the American National Standards Institute would require a rigorous
public input and organization review process.

Recommended Practices
The purpose of an electrical recommended practice is to identify electrical features of systems,
products or procedures, which may be important. Recommended practices are electrical design
and installation practices, which have been generally accepted in the electrical industry as safe,
reliable, efficient, and maintainable. Recommended practices are not considered to be a fixed
rule, a code, or a standard. It is anticipated that sound engineering judgment will be utilized when
implementing a recommended practice. It is also not the intent that recommended practices
should supersede federal, state, or local regulations in their implementation. In summary,
recommended practices are generally universally accepted industry rule(s) or practice(s)
regarding design, operation, or maintenance of equipment, facilities, installations or procedures.
To better understand this term, we will also examine the term engineering judgment, which
was used in its definition. A good definition for that term was developed by Alonzo as follows:

Engineering judgment is the scientific process by which a design, installation, operation/
maintenance or safety problem is systematically evaluated. It utilizes knowledge and experience gained on the subject and applies the scientific method of analysis. It includes gathering all
necessary information about the project or problem and systematically sorting the information,
to make an informed decision or take action. Part of the evaluation process would include some

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sort of hazard or risk analysis, if applicable, and a review of applicable codes, standards, and
recommended practices. A thorough knowledge of the process, equipment, or situation is essential in making an engineering judgment. Alternative solutions must be analyzed as well as
a critical analysis of any final conclusions or recommendations.
Systematic documentation of the evaluation process is essential in engineering judgment. This
would include any calculations, risk or hazard analysis, cause and effect diagrams, list of applicable codes, standards, or recommended practices, etc. It is essential to document the process
for both historical and liability reasons. [4]

Who, What, Where, When, and How
To aid in the examination of the terms codes, standards, and recommended practices it is
essential to begin by listing and examining the standards development organizations and
governmental agencies that may have been involved in their development or implementation
for electrical engineering purposes. They include many of the electrical engineering
professional societies, as well as electrical manufacturing industry groups; electrical
generating and transmission/distribution industry groups; national standards organizations;
independent testing organizations; and governmental agencies. Several of the promulgating
agencies and organizations, both in the United States and internationally, will be examined.
Each review is designed to provide general information regarding the organization’s
background, membership, relationships to other standards making organizations and standards

making procedures in that organization. Should the reader desire more detailed information, it
is recommended to either contact the organization or research its website or other available
materials.
The review of standards organizations should begin by examining the role of the major
standards organizations both in the United States and internationally. The American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) has been designated as the American National Standards approval
organization in the United States. It has also been designated as the official United States
representative on international standards organizations. Its membership is composed of
representatives of several major engineering, professional, and manufacturing standards
organizations. Although it is not responsible for the issuance of all American standards, it
does jointly issue all documents that have been designated as an American National
Standard. For example, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers’ (IEEE) standard
IEEE Guide for Safety in AC Substation Grounding, ANSI/IEEE Standard 80, is jointly
issued as an American National Standard. IEEE’s Substation Committee of the IEEE Power
Engineering Society sponsored the document. The IEEE Standards Board approved the
document. It was also approved by the American National Standards Institute as an
American National Standard.

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American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
1819 L Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 293-8020

Internet: http://www/ansi.org/
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) was established in 1918 with its mission
To enhance both the global competitiveness of US business and the US quality of life by
promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems,
and safeguarding their integrity. [5]

Its members are
Comprised of Government agencies, Organizations, Companies, Academic and International
bodies, and individuals. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) represents the interests of more than 125,000 companies and 3.5 million professionals. [5].

Internationally, ANSI is affiliated as the official US representative to the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO). It is also associated with the International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC) via the US National Committee (USNC) and holds membership in the
International Accreditation Forum (IAF). Regionally, ANSI maintains membership in standards
organization in the Pacific Area (Pacific Area Standards Congress [PASC] and the Pacific
Accreditation Cooperation [PAC]), as well as in North and South America (Pan American
Standards Commission [COPANT] and Inter American Accreditation Cooperation [IAAC].
Examining the block diagrams [6] in Figures 1.1 and 1.2 below illustrates the complexity and
interaction of standards development in today’s globalized economy.
ANSI has been associated with the coordination of voluntary standards and conformity
assessment in the United States since its inception. It is composed of a diverse membership,
including industry standards organizations, academia, professional and technical societies,
trade commissions, labor and consumer representatives, et al.
General Information
In 1918 five major existing professional technical societies cooperated to establish an
impartial national organization to coordinate standards development. They also sought to
develop and approve national consensus standards, thus eliminating confusion with the
ultimate standards users. The five initiating professional societies included:
1. American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE)
2. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

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3. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
4. American Institute of Mining and Metallurgical Engineers ((AIMME)
5. American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM)
These organizations then invited and granted membership to US Departments of War, Navy,
and Commerce as co-founders. It original founding name was the American Engineering
Standards Committee (AESC).

ANSI
ISO Council
(AIC)
Intellectual
Property Rights
Policy
Committee
(IPRPC)

Conformity
Assessment
Policy
Committee
(CAPC)
ANSI

Policy
Committees
National
Policy
Committee
(NPC)

USNC
IEC
Council
International
Policy
Committee
(IPC)

Figure 1.1: ANSI Policy Committees’ memberships
Source: ANSI: />
ANSI International
Policy Committee

The Americas
(RSC-A)

Asia Pacific
(RSC-AP)

Europe/MidEast/Africa
(RSC-EMEA)

Figure 1.2: ANSI International Regional Committees

Source: ANSI: />
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Chapter 1

ANSI has the responsibility for issuing national standards for accident prevention and the
coordination of national safety codes. The organization has today issued some 1200 safety
standards which are designed to protect consumers and the workforce. Since its duties include
many engineering discipline areas, the organization has approved approximately 10,500
national standards in mining, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, construction,
and highway traffic safety [7].
ANSI has also cooperated with governmental agencies on safety issues. In 1976 the
organization established a joint coordinating committee with the US Department of Labor,
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The committee’s role was to establish
private-public sector communications for voluntary standards which affect safety and health in
the workplace. Based on the success of that endeavor, a second joint coordinating committee
was established in 1982 with the US Department of Commerce, Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC). Its role was to improve standards activities related to consumer products.
ANSI has developed an Internet search engine for standards. It is This
ANSI Web resource allows information searches in nine different databases [7], including:
1. ANSI Standards
2. Other US Standards
3. ISO/IEC/ITU [8] Approved Standards
4. Non-US National and Regional Standards
5. US DoD [9] Approved Standards
6. ANS Under Development
7. ISO/IEC Development Project

8. DoD Development Project
9. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) References
This Internet search engine allows the user to check those databases for available standards.
It also allows the selection of specific organizations such as ANSI, ASME, IEEE, etc. in which
to search. Search results provide the data by document title, number, and scope. Procurement
sources are also provided.
ANSI has developed the United States Standard Strategy [10]. That strategy provides focus on
individual sectors of standards development supported by a dynamic infrastructure. This
recognizes that those individuals, groups, governmental entities, etc. involved in a specific
sector of standards development are best equipped and most efficient to address the issues and
working methods in that area. It recognizes that no single standardization system can satisfy

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the needs for all standards development. However, the infrastructure provided by ANSI allows
them to facilitate and mediate between groups [11]:
1. when cross-sectional issues arise;
2. when sector definitions change; or
3. in venues where a single national voice is required.
To aid standards groups which their development of jointly approved standards, ANSI developed
Essential Requirements: Due Process Requirements for American National Standards. Section
1.0, January 2009 Edition, Pages 4 and 5 of that document defines the term due process, which
was used in the title and is reflected throughout the document’s requirements.
Due process means that any person (organization, company, government agency, individual,
etc.) with a direct and material interest has a right to participate by: a) expressing a position and

its basis, b) having that position considered, and c) having the right to appeal. Due process
allows for equity and fair play. The following constitute the minimum acceptable due process
requirements for the development of consensus:
1.1 Openness
1.2 Lack of dominance
1.3 Balance
1.4 Coordination and harmonization
1.5 Notification of standards development
1.6 Consideration of views and objections
1.7 Consensus vote
1.8 Appeals
1.9 Written procedures
1.10 Compliance with normative American National Standards policies and administrative procedures

These procedures apply to any standard making organization desiring approval as an
American National Standard.

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
3, rue de Varembe´
P.O. 131, CH-1211
Geneva 20, Switzerland
Phone: (ỵ41) 22 919 02 11
Internet: />The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is an international organization that prepares
and publishes standards. It was founded in June, 1906 in London. In 1948 its offices moved to

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Geneva, Switzerland. Although its membership was originally primarily European, today it
encompasses some 136 countries of which 67 are members and 69 have Affiliate Country
Programme status. Although its headquarters is in Geneva, it operates regional centers in Singapore;
San Paulo, Brazil, and Boston, Massachusetts. The United States is represented by the American
National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) United States National Committee/IEC (USNC/IEC).
The IEC members are composed of national committees, each representing its nation’s
electrotechnical interests. The committees may consist of representatives from manufacturing,
distribution and sales, consumers, professional societies, trade unions, academia,
governmental agencies, national standards bodies, and other interests. The IEC is responsible
for issuing electrotechnical standards.
Standards are utilized as the technical basis or references in international contracts, tenders,
and trade. All electrotechnical categories are included in the IEC charter. Those technologies
include:
electronics, magnetics, electromagnetics, electroacoustics, multimedia, telecommunication,
and energy production and distribution, as well as associated general disciplines such as
terminology and symbols, electromagnetic compatibility, measurement and performance,
dependability, design and development, safety and the environment. [12]

IEC products [13] include the following two categories of publications:
International Consensus Products:
 International Standards (full consensus) (IS)
 Technical Specification [full consensus not (yet) reached] (TS)
 Technical Reports (information different from an IS or TS)
 Publicly Available Specifications
 Guides (non-normative publications)
Limited Consensus Products
 Industry Technical Agreement

 Technology Trend Assessment
An International Standard (IS) is defined as:
a document, established by consensus and approved by a recognized body, that provides, for
common and repeated use, rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or their results,
aimed at the achievement of the optimum degree of order in a given context. An international
standard is a standard adopted by an international standardizing/standards organization and
made available to the public. [14]

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