2020 Code Revision and Interpretation Committee Code Interpretation - Buildings

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2020 Code Revision and Interpretation Committee Code Interpretation (Last Updated: February 27, 2023)

In an effort to help the electrical industry make a smooth transition into the new Electrical Code and ensure the continuity in the performance of electrical work, the Department of Buildings will be posting code interpretations on its website. Listed below are new code-related questions and corresponding interpretations by the Code Committee. The users of this list should have available the 2008 edition of the NEC and the associated NYC Amendments to the 2008 NEC , as well as (Local Law 39/11) that went into effect on March 1, 2012.

All interpretations are based on the 1999 NEC and associated NY City amendments.

Whenever there are a few sections referenced, the first one is the "lead section", and the rest are secondary sections. All the secondary sections are referenced with the purpose of offering additional clarifications.

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Click a topic, or press the enter key on a topic, to reveal its answer.

Chapter 1: General (Section 110.1 to 110.79)

Article 110 – (10/5/2020)

Recently on some jobs requiring the installation of a fire alarm system fused disconnect switch the electrical contractors faced the following conditions and questioned how to appropriate address them as per the requirements that applies to the primary power connection of a fire alarm system. Unfortunately, this cannot be asked or answered in a Yes or No format as stated above and was not located in the code on how to address by several of us.

When the main electrical service room in an existing buildings no longer has any wall or other available mounting space, is not large enough to support the construction of a center island or is not big enough meet the spacing clearing allowances if the was room was big enough to do so, what is an acceptable location, alternative location and way to install the fire alarm fused disconnect switch so that it is code compliant and meets any electrical room required ratings?

This is a design problem that is encountered in existing electrical equipment room. You may retain the services of a registered design professional for assistance. The Department doesn’t provide consulting services.

Section 110.2 – (8/3/2020)

We are working on development of a recessed luminaire. The associated lens we are developing consists of polystyrene. I have read through the NYC Electrical code but found no particulars about lens composition.

Are we allowed to provide a recessed lighting luminaire with polystyrene lens in New York, or are we limited to glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate? If a polystyrene lens is allowed, is it determined by ceiling type, and if so, what are said parameters? Does this change with a surface mount luminaire?

No, listed luminaires are permitted to be installed in NYC, when suitable for the environment is installed in and complies with applicable NYC Energy Conservation Codes power density.

Section 110.2(A) – (6/1/2020)

The NEC defers to the authority having jurisdiction (in this case NYC DOB) in Article 100 regarding acceptance of listed material. NYCEC 2011 references "listed" materials and equipment in Article 100.2.A provision but does not clearly define the term.

1) Does all equipment in NYC need to be Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) listed & labeled?

2)Does an OTCR review of equipment suffice in lieu of NRTL listing & labeling?

3) Where there is no applicable listing standard (i.e. medium voltage generators), will NRTL field evaluation & report be acceptable?

4A) Where a UL891 listed & labeled switchboard is modified, will an NRTL field evaluation & report on the modifications be acceptable?

4B) Will a bus tap (for example #10 THHN cable lug added to existing joint bolt per phase for fire alarm) to an existing service switchboard performed by a licensed electrical contractor void the existing NRTL listing (typically UL891)?

5) Where equipment such as medium voltage non-segregated bus is not NRTL labeled, will an International Electrical Testing Association (NETA) report & label be accepted in lieu of NRTL listing & labeling?

1) NYC Electrical Code section 110.2 requires that all equipment to be listed and suitable for intended use. NRTLs are acceptable listing and labeling body to NYC.

2) No. OTCR provide review for material compliance only and is not a testing laboratory.

3) Relevant field evaluation by an approved lab to the Department is acceptable.

4A) Yes.

4B) All field modifications must be evaluated before requesting the Department’s inspection; unless a provision was provided by the manufacturer and was part of the listed equipment in question.

5) No. NETA is not an approved testing lab.

Section 110.2(B) and 1RCNY 4000-01 – (4/3/2020)

We have a solar PV rooftop project in NYC, to be connected to the grid.
We're interconnecting at 208VAC and below 1000 kVA.
Based on the NYC RCNY 4000-01 rule and the statement below:

"Electrical Plan Review is required for electrical installations 1000 Kilo-Volt Amperes (KVA) or greater, or new or revised installations above 600 volts, and must be submitted to DOB by a New York State Licensed and Registered Professional Engineer or a New York State Licensed and Registered Architect"

Will our installation require Electrical Review?

No. Where both the total electrical service and PV system capacity are under 1000kVA each, plan review is not required.

Chapter 2: Wiring and Protection (Code Section 200.1 to 285.28)

Section 210.21 – (2/4/2020)

1) Is busway subject to tap rules since section 240.21 in Part II addresses conductors only?

2) Is busway when connected to the secondary of Delta/ Wye transformer considered transformer secondary conductors and subject to subsection 240.21(C)?

1) Busway is a conductor type and where busways are tapped or when reduced in ampacity, they shall be protected in accordance with 368.17(B) and (C) and section 240.21.

2) Yes.

Section 210.5 – (4/3/2020)

Existing hotel guest room, with permanent eletric cooking, are undergoing renovations requiring rewiring of receptacles on each guest unit. Each guest room unit is served by a dedicated panelette serving lighting, receptacles, cooking and HVAC loads within each guest unit. Receptacles are being provided on each side of a rated demising wall between guest units, and will be fed from panelette from the guest room unit the respective receptacle is serving. The branch circuit conductors to each receptacle are being routed in a cavity on one side of rated demising wall by means of rigid metal conduit (EMY, RGC, etc.) or metal clad (MC) cabling per attached sketch. Is the installation of raceways from different guest unit panelettes, in a shared cavity on one side of the rated demising wall between units, permissible by Electrical code, provided the receptacle outlet box penetrations through the demising wall are fire-stopped by an approved means to maintainf the fire rating of the demising all? (See attached plan).

Installation as described is acceptable where it complies with section 300.21 and NYC BC Section 713.3.2.

Subsection 210.52 – (4/3/2020)

This is a new construction high rise building in Manhattan with high end residential apartments, there is a peninsula dividing the kitchen from the living room area.

Does this installation violate 210.52?

In my professional opinion the installation is code compliant and we are meeting the code intent of having sufficient receptacle coverage at living room area, and we are also in compliance with 210.52(C)(3) in which we have a receptacle at each peninsula under the counter or on the wall above the peninsula.

See attached letter with photos of the peninsula for your reference. All apartments in the building have the same kitchen layout and are identical. (See attached photos).

Yes, your installation is in accordance with 210.52. Under counter GFCI receptacle outlet satisfies 210.52(A)(1) and (2) for General Provision, either the wall mounted receptacle outlet or under counter receptacle satisfies 210.52(C)(3).

Section 210.52 – (12/1/2020)

We are looking for interpretation on receptacle placement requirements in Section 210.52.

If we have a kitchen island where one side of the island is the kitchen and the other side is the living room, is a receptacle required on the face of the island facing the living room to meet wall space requirement in Section 210.52 - Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets?

An additional receptacle will be placed on the shorter end of the kitchen island to meet Section 210.52 (C)(2) - Island Countertop Spaces.

Please see attached sketch for the receptacle in question.

Yes. The receptacle on the long side of the peninsula facing the living is required for spaces required by 210.52(A)(2)(3).

Section 225.30 – (8/3/2020)

Article 225.30 refrences requierments for a premises that has more than one building or structure, my question is when the scenerio is opposite, one structure built on several tax lots with seperate addresses for each lot, is it allowed to have one main service for the whole structure and have each lot being served by one feeder from the main service.

No. Unless a restrictive declaration for the shared use of the electrical system has been filed and approved with the Department.

Section 240.21 – (2/4/2020)

When you tap a feeder and have a meter cabinet in series of the run, do you have to count the length of the bus bars inside of the meter cabinet or you only count the length of the conductors?

No. The length of the equipment’s bus bars do not count as part of the tap conductors, but the tap rules must be followed.

Sections 240.21 – (8/3/2020)

I’m looking for some clarification. Does this installation violate 240.21? Clearly this is not a tap as per the NEC definitions is A conductor, other than a service conductor, that has overcurrent protection ahead of its point of supply that exceeds. The value permitted for similar conductors that are protected as described elsewhere in 240.4. My argument is article 230.90 (A)(1) Exp 3, specifically states Two to six circuit breakers or sets of fuses shall be permitted as the overcurrent device to provide the overload protection. The sum of the ratings of the circuit breakers or fuses shall be permitted to exceed the ampacity of the service conductors, provided the calculated load does not exceed the ampacity of the service conductors.

The above exception depicts and clarifies the installation I have below please see attached photos. The conductors in the picture that land directly on the bus in the service switch that is rated for use as service equipment are directly coming from the utility size number 2 copper conductors.

Described installation is a service and the tap rules in 240.21 are not applicable.

Section 240.21 & 408.36 – (2/4/2020)

A 1200 Amp rated Panelboard is feed with (3) sets of 400kcmil CU conductors which is tapped from (3) sets of 600kcmil CU. conductors which is feed from a 1000 amp overcurrent protective device.

A) is this considered a tap as per 240.21 and as per 408.36 requires this panelboard to have a main overcurrent protective device?

B) This is not considered a tap since the (3) sets of 400kcmil CU. conductors are rated for 1000 amps and are protected by the primary overcurrent protective device?

A) This is not tap conductors; see definition of tap conductors in 240.2 and conductors are to be protracted according to their ampacity in 240.4.

B) Yes, see answer above.

Section 250.119 – (6/1/2020)

When there are two systems of different voltages in a building does the Equipment Grounding Conductor have to be distinguished in a similar manner to the other conductors. Can both systems have a green wire or does one have to be Green and the other Green with a Yellow stripe or one bare and the other insulated.

Equipment Grounding conductors from different services or separately derived systems are not required to have different outer finish other than what is required by 250.119

Article 250.146 & 300.12 - (2/4/2020)

In a concrete structure building where an electrical nonmetallic tubing type ENT is installed inside the concrete deck and connects into a metal floor box, then an MC cable is installed using a listed MC connector at the panelboard or from an outlet box and the insulated equipment grounding conductor (EGC) is connected to the metal enclosure, then the MC cable is fished thru the ENT and runs to the floor box and the EGC is connected to the floor box and also to the receptacle.

Is that code compliant, because the EGC is connected to all the metal parts and the MC cable armor is connected to the point where it receives its power, and the rest of the MC cable is fished inside the ENT?

No. The installation is in violation of sections 300.10 and 300.12. Where installation utilizes fitting to bond the end of MC cable to the metal floor box, then the installation is acceptable.

Chapter 3: Wiring Methods and Materials (Code Section 300.1 to 398-104)

Subsection 300.14 – (8/3/2020)

I have a question in regard to a finish receptacle would you say these are code complaint I have attached some pictures it. (See attach).

No. See ECRIC’s June 4th, 2019, Section 314.20.

Subsection 314.29 – (10/5/2020)

See attached elevation from project electrician, electrician is proposing 2 adjacent wiretroughs. 1 trough will have a top cover and one will have a bottom cover. Bottom cover will be within 7 inches from finished floor so the 600 MCM aluminum wire contained within would not be able to be removed However the cable could be removed from the adjacent box. Does the proposed installation meet the intent of 314.29 and the definition of accessible (as applied to wiring methods)?

Yes, the installation is considered accessible per section 314.29 and also shall comply with 376.23(B), Metallic Wireways Used as Pull Boxes, and shall not extend beyond other electrical equipment more than 6” in accordance with 110.26(A)(3).

Section 352.6 – (10/5/2020)

Are PVC conduit fittings (condulets and couplings) complying with 352.6 required to be identified for PV Rigid Schedule 40 or 80? Are listed PVC fittings suitable for both schedule 40 and 80?

Yes, listed PVC fittings are suitable for schedule-40 and schedule-80 PVC.

Section 352.10 – (2/4/2020)

Please see the attached picture of mockup installation of lighting for an outdoor water front (salt water) open air roof structure as part of a park. We would like to use PVC conduit for lighting branch circuit within the existing roof structure. We want to install the conduit installed in between the existing structure joists to deter public access. Threaded steel conduit would not be feasible between the joist due to tight spacing. It would be more likely to be exposed to damage if run under the joist. Also, we have a concern of galvanized steel conduit rusting due to prolonged and continuous saltwater exposure. We want to use PVC conduit. This is allowed by 352.10 (B), however it is not feasible to concrete encase this conduit as it seems is required by NYC Amendment 352.10 (J). Since this is an outdoor installation that is not readily accessible and could not create any issues with fumes if burned in the outdoor setting, would PVC conduit be allowed?

The installation, as described and shown in your attachment is acceptable in NYC where material is listed for outdoor, the environment where it’s being used and complies with the requirement of Article 352.

Chapter 4: Equipment for General Use (Code Section 400.1 to 490.74)

Article 404.11 & 240.83(D) – (2/4/2020)

The attached are circuit breakers replacement for the Federal Pacific Stab-Lok style circuit breaker. The cut sheet indicates that the product is a suitable replacement for the aforementioned FP product. My question does the SWD Rated device permits the protection for all branch circuits outlets? (See attach).

The SWD rating applies to circuit breakers that are used as a switch to control fluorescent lights.

Section 406.4(E) - (2/4/2020)

As shown in the photo, is it allowed to install a receptacle outlet on the top of a surface or window sill (the window is not operable), which is located behind the kitchen counter top to serve as the required receptacles for the counters?(See attached photo).

No. NYC Electrical Code section 406.4(E) purohits receptacles in countertops and similar work surfaces to be installed in face-up position.

Section 406.11 - (10/5/2020)

Article 406.11 reads "In all areas specified in 210.52, all 125V,15A & 20A receptacles shall be listed Tamper Resistant receptacles. Article 210.52 states "This section provides requirements for 125V, 15A & 20A receptacle outlets. The receptacles required by this section shall be bi in addition to any receptacle that is:

1) Part of a luminaire or appliance, or

2) Controlled by a wall switch in accordance with 210.70(A)(1 ),Exception No.1,or

3) Located within cabinets or cupboards, or

4) Located more than 1.7 m (5 1/2 ft.)above the floor

4A) Would receptacles installed above 7' for window shades need to be Tamper Resistant since they are in addition to receptacles required by 210.52 and are installed for specific use and are not readily accessible.

4B) Would receptacles installed in a removable panel in a vanity/cabinet for a fixture driver need to be Tamper Resistant since they are in addition to receptacles required by 210.52 and are intended for a specific use and not readily accessible.

4C) Would receptacles installed in a NID (network interface device) box with a latch locked cover in an apartment closet need to be Tamper Resistant since they are in addition to receptacles required by 210.52 and are installed for specific use and are not readily accessible.

A) Yes. the current NYC electrical code 406.11 addresses spaces and there are no exceptions.

B) Yes.

C) No. 2011 NYC electrical code, section 210.52 does not specify closets as one of the required areas. Hence, section 406.11 is not applicable to such areas.

Section 450.3(B) & 700.9(D)(1)(3) - (8/3/2020)

A) Please provide clarification concerning low voltage control start wires form ATS's to Emergency Generator as below:
Most High Ruse Buildings have at least Three ATS's: Dedicated Fire Alarm ATS, Dedicated Fire Pump ATS and Emergency Lights/Elevator ATS.
Advise which Low Voltage Control Start Wiring configuration is acceptable as per 700.9(D)(3) section below assuming three ATS's mentioned above are installed:

Low Voltage Control Start Wiring can be daisy chained between all ATS’s with dedicated Electrical Conduit for control mires between ATS's and then One Dedicated Electrical Conduit housing pair of low voltage wires for Start run to Emergency Generator.

Each ATS mush have a pair of low voltage control start wires run directly from each ATS to Emergency Generator but can share Electrical Conduit housing only control star wires to the Emergency Generator (a pair of low voltage control start wires for each ATS).

Each ATS must have a dedicated Low Voltage Control Wire Electrical Conduit run from Each ATS to the Emergency Generator. This would result in three dedicated low voltage Electrical Conduit Runs - one from each ATS to the Emergency Generator terminating at the emergency generator Control Board.

II) Circuit Wring 700.9 Wiring, Emergency System. ID Fire Protection (3) Generator Control Wiring. Control conductors installed between the transfer equipment and the emergency generator shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring and shall meet the conditions of 700.9(D)(A).

B) Can one AC power step down transformer such as with 277 volts on the primary side with a disconnect switch on that side feed more than one disconnect switch on the secondary side such as the fire alarm equipment control and booster power supply etc. as opposed one designated transformer with a disconnect switch for each fire alarm piece of equipment? Or in other words the use of one set down transformer for several different pieces of fire alarm equipment keeping in mind that the transformer is properly sized up for it.

C) Can the stepdown transformer be located in a tenant's space as opposed to the electrical room and if so what are the imitations such as distance etc.? Please provide any other items or details that may apply here to reduce the need for any further questions related to this subject that may apply. An expedited response would be greatly appreciated here. Thank you for your time and be sale.

See Section 450.3(B) &760.41 – (8/3/2020), and Section 700.9(D)(1)(3) – (8/3/2020).

Section 450.3(B) & 760.41 – (8/3/2020)

Can one AC power step down transformer such as with 277 volts on the primary side with a disconnect switch on that side feed more than one disconnect switch on the secondary side such as the fire alarm equipment control and booster power supply etc. as opposed one designated transformer with a disconnect switch for each fire alarm piece of equipment? Or in other words the use of one set down transformer for several different pieces of fire alarm equipment keeping in mind that the transformer is properly sized up for it.

Can the stepdown transformer be located in a tenants’ space as opposed to the electrical room and if so what are the imitations such as distance etc.?

Up to six secondary overcurrent Devices are permitted in accordance with subsection 450.3(B) and Table 450.3(B).

No. Fire Aram equipment shall be protected and shall not be accessible to unqualified personals.

Chapter 5: Special Occupancies (Code Section 500.1 to 590.7)

Section 517.40(C)(3) – (12/1/2020)

The company I hold the license for has been tasked with providing temporary emergency receptacles for covid related relief. The facility is a psychiatric rehabilitation center, and will be used as a covid healthcare facility in the upcoming months.

It is my understanding per 517.30(C)(3), all emergency branch circuits must be mechanically protected, and hospital grade MC would not be acceptable. Being this project is an emergency and will be a temporary (unknown exact time frame), would hospital grade MC be acceptable to use for emergency circuits?

Electrical installations that are subject to the requirement in 517.30(C)(3) and under the purview of NYC Electrical Code, shall comply with the requirement including the Mechanical Protection. There are no exceptions or allowance due to the temporary nature of the installation.

Chapter 6: Special Equipment (Code Section 600.1 to 695.14)

Article 690 – (2/4/2020)

Is a Master Electrician License required for the complete installation of Solar Photovoltaic – linking individual modules, hardware, racking, mounting brackets, grounding, installation of wires, conduits, apparatus, devices and fixtures. Please see attachments of New York State and other jurisdiction documentations.

Yes. The installation of Photo Voltaic Equipment and associated wiring are electrical work as defined in NYC Electrical Administration section 27-3004 and shall be performed by a master electrician or special electrician as required by NYC Electrical Administrative section 27-3017.a.1. Please note under later codes, the requirement has been clarified. See 2011 NEC 690.4(E) and 2014 NEC 690.4(C) for reference.

Yes.

Yes, unless the pump fits the definition of limited service fire pump.

Section 620.37(A) – (6/1/2020)

Does the code allow me to run EMT inside an elevator shaft for the smoke detector at the top of the shaft?

Yes. See 620.37(A).

Section 620.37(A) – (6/1/2020)

On a modernization of an elevator:

A pit light and receptacle outlet exist in the pit supplied from a basement panel board.

In this modernization the engineer calls for this same pit light and receptacle to have its branch circuit relocated to the elevator machine room panel.

The new design also calls for these branch circuits conductors to be routed along with and to occupy the same wireway as the elevator controls from the elevator machine room down the elevator shaft hoistway to feed the pit light and receptacle at the bottom of the elevator shaft.

Is this installation code compliant with 620.37(A)?

If not why?

Is a master electrician required to install this branch circuit, pit light and receptacle?

Is the elevator mechanic employed by the elevator company allowed to install this branch wire together with his elevator control wires occupying the same wireway?

Is the pit light the same as lighting the hoistway?

620.37(a) mentions lighting the hoistway and pit sump pump as wiring that can be inside the hoistway or am I misreading this code rule?

In 620.37(a) the engineer seems to think that the branch circuit for

lighting

the hoistway is the same as a

pit light

and can be located inside the hoistway and in the same wireway with elevator control wires.

Is the engineer correct?

Section 620.37(A) governs what wiring is permitted to be installed in the spaces described by the section. The proposed installation described above shall be permitted by section 620.36 when all the conditions in the section are met.

See No. 1answer above.

Yes. See NYC Electrical Code Administrative section 27-3017.

No. NYC Electrician Licensee or someone under the licensee’s direct supervision must install all wiring described above.

Pit light and receptacle are covered under section 620.24 and is not meant to illuminate the hoistway.

We only provide NYC electrical code interpretation.

Section 645.5(D) – (8/3/2020)

620.37 Allows wiring for fire detection system to be located in the hoistway.

NOTE: Questions are specific to NEC 2008 Code, applying 2011 Amendments for NYC.

1. A newly constructed Data Center is installing a raised floor to be used as an air flow plenum, and they wish to install Starline busway within the floor plenum to be used for electrical distribution to Information Technology equipment positioned above. Article 300.22 (C)(1) of the code suggests that a totally enclosed, non-ventilated, insulated busway having no provisions for plug-in connections, would be allowable. Further to this, Article 645.5 (D) "Under Raised Floors", suggests that power cables, cord and plug connections, and receptacles associated with information technology equipment shall be permitted under raised floors, presuming conditions (1)-(6) are met.

Regarding the use of Starline busway, if plug-in units are to be field installed into the busway system prior to use, and the busway channel is then fully enclosed with a metal cover, providing a completely covered system, would this be acceptable for use in this under-floor application, noting that the plug-in units offer connectivity via cord and plug connection? Please refer to the included two (2) diagrams to further depict the system described.

NOTE: Busway installations, as described above, have been previously installed within raised floor Data Center environments in other major metropolitan cities, when used in conjunction with metal covers (closure strip) that, when installed, completely enclose the busway system.

Answer 1 and 2, only wiring for signal or communication including fire alarm that are used directly in connection with the elevator (cab) are permitted. Wiring for signal or communication or fire alarm passing thru the elevator shaft are not permitted.

No. Your product, Busway, does not meet the wiring methods or cable types listed in subsection 645.5(D), mainly 645.5(D)(5).

Section 690.31(E) – (12/1/2020)

Can a PV disconnect be mounted in a remote location from the area which the conductors enter the structure using Exception 690.31(e) of the 2008 NEC / 2011 NYC amendments?

Yes.

Section 695.3(A)(1) & 695.4(B)(3)(4) – (10/5/2020)

For an existing building and service
As per the attached power riser diagram:

Can fire pump service switch be installed in fire pump room as per NYC Electrical Code section 695.3 (a) (1) and as shown on attached power riser diagram.

Can fire pump service switch be installed outside the electrical room as per attached power riser diagram and as per NYC Electrical Code section 695.4 (b) (3) (4) is 12” sufficient to comply with "be located sufficiently remote from other building or other fire pump source disconnecting means …” (See attached diagram)

Yes. The installation of Photo Voltaic Equipment and associated wiring are electrical work as defined in NYC Electrical Administration section 27-3004 and shall be performed by a master electrician or special electrician as required by NYC Electrical Administrative section 27-3017.a.1. Please note under later codes, the requirement has been clarified. See 2011 NEC 690.4(E) and 2014 NEC 690.4(C) for reference.

Yes. Subsection 230.72(B) permits the remote installation of the fire pump service disconnecting mean.

No. See answer above for the appropriate code section.

Section 695.4(B)(1) – (6/1/2020)

Design includes a 7.5 HP sprinkler booster pump and a 2 HP pressure maintenance pump. Power to pressure maintenance pump is from a tap off the motor-feeder serving the sprinkler booster pump. Design indicates a 200A fuse protecting the motor-feeder. 2008 National Electrical Code section 695.4 (B) (1) indicates:

(1) Overcurrent Device Selection. The overcurrent protective device(s) shall be selected or set to carry indefinitely the sum of the locked-rotor current of the fire pump motor(s) and the pressure maintenance pump motor(s) and the full-load current of the associated fire pump accessory equipment when connected to this power supply. The next standard overcurrent device shall be used in accordance with 240.6. The requirement to carry the locked-rotor currents indefinitely shall not apply to conductors or devices other than overcurrent devices in the fire pump motor circuit(s)

However, the NYC Amendment (695.4 (B)(1)) indicates:

(B) Disconnecting Means and Overcurrent Protection.

(1) Utility Service. Fire pumps and limited service fire pumps shall have overcurrent protection selected as to allow the operation of the fire pump for as long as the fire pump remains capable of
running, except where direct connection is made in accordance with 695.4(AX3) Exception 1:
(1) Fire Pump. Fire pump overcurrent protection shall be selected at between 300 percent and 600 percent of motor full load current.
(2) Limited Service Fire Pump. Limited service fire pumps shall be protected by overcurrent devices selected at 150 percent of motor full load current. The next larger available device size may be used where selection results in a non-standard device size.
(3) Disconnecting means shall be listed to accept the selected overcurrent device with no modification.

And does not mention the pressure maintenance pump.
What is the minimum and maximum overcurrent protection permitted for the motor-feeder?
Screenshot of riser diagram below: (attached)

Please note that Article 695 is not applicable to pressure maintaining pump, see 695.1.

NYC Fire Pump calculation!

Overcurrent Protection Device

7.5 HP= 24.2 amps FLA
2HP= 7.5 amps FLA

Max FP OCPD size at 6 times = (24.2 FLA x 6) +7.5 FLA = 153.9 amps, you can select 150 amps fuse
(NYC EC does not permit next size up when 6 times the FLA is exceeded)
Min PF OCPD size at 3 times = (24.2 FLA x 3) +7.5 FLA = 80.1 amps fuse, a 90 amps fuse is permitted

Conductor

7.5 HP = 24.2 FLA amps x 1.25% = 30.25 amps
2 HP = 7.5 FLA amps

Total = 37.75 amps from 60 deg #8 AWG is the minimum conductor size.
Ground is sized by 250.122 for 90amp fuse is #8 AWG, and #6 for the 150 amps fuse, but since the EGC doesn’t have to be larger than Phase conductor, then #8 AWG is permitted for EGC.

Please note that NYC EC section 90.1(B) requires additional necessary measure to be provided when in certain instances when the code does not provide adequate protection.

Section 695.4(B)(3)(4) – (4/3/2020)

The current 2011 NYC electrical code requires fire pump circuit conductors to be protected by 2-hour fire rated construction or a 2-hour fire resistant circuit, except where conductors are located in the electrical service room where they originate.

In an existing building built under old electrical code the existing fire pumps, the fire pump circuit conductors (both, the normal and emergency power supply) are not fire-resistant circuits and are not protected with 2-hour fire rated construction. The scope of current alteration in the building is to replace most of the equipment inside the electric service room. This includes the service switches, step-up transformer, and the distribution switchboard.

The existing circuits or feeders originating from the service room would remain unchanged. The fire pump feeders would be intercepted in a box immediately outside of the service room and reconnected to new service switches inside the electrical room.

It is necessary to intercept the fire pump feeders since the locations of service switches will not match existing locations. The existing switches supplying fire pumps were part of switchboards, while new switches will comply with current code and be separated from other distribution switches. The purpose of this request for determination is to verify or confirm that the fire pump circuit conductors not affected by the alteration may remain as installed.

Protection of fire pump circuits were introduced in the1985 update of the 1968 Building Code, and a Building Bulletin was added to the NYC Electrical Code at that time. If the subject fire pump circuit installation was permitted before 1985 and the scope of electrical for the fire pump circuit is to be reconnected, then the current installation is permitted to remain. The provision of 695.4(B)(3)(4) shall apply.

Section 695.6 & 605.14(E) – (6/1/2020)

Section 695.6 Power Wiring, (B) Circuit Conductors, (1) Fire Pumps: there is one option for “concrete encased’ and two options for a 2-hour fire resistance rating, therefore the “concrete encased’ is considered equal to a 2-hour fire resistance rating.

Question #1: Based on section 695.6 (B) (1), do you agree that the “encased concrete” referenced in (1) is equivalent to options (2) and (3), both of which reference a 2-hour fire resistance rating? YES ____ NO ____

SECTION 695.14, from NYC 2011 NEC 2008 Amendments No. 39 reads as follows: Subsection 695.14(E): - (E) Electric Fire Pump Control Wiring Methods. All electric motor driven fire pump control wiring shall be in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible metal conduit or Type MI cable. Since the statement includes the word “OR” between the conduit options and Type MI Cable, from a professional evaluation standpoint they are assumed to be equal.

Question #2: Since the word “OR” is included between, “rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible metal conduit” and “Type MI Cable” do you agree with the professional interpretation of the NY City Code intention that options on either side of the word “OR” are to be equal? YES ____ NO ____
Installing contractors and Designers of Record are concluding that the Fire Alarm Systems are considered part of the “Electric Fire Pump Control Wiring,” governed by Section 695.14(E). Fire Alarm downstream circuits are governed by Section 760.53 which require “CI-NYC certified fire alarm cable” which maintains a 2-hour fire resistance rating.

Question #3: Based on the above would you agree with my professional position that Subsection 695.14(E): - should be revised, or interpreted to read as follows: (E) Electric Fire Pump Control Wiring Methods. All electric motor driven fire pump control wiring, "including Fire Alarm Systems", shall be in "encased concrete" rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible metal conduit "with a 2-hour fire resistance rating" or Type MI cable. (edits to the original are in " ") YES ___ NO ___ See Question #4 in the Supporting Documents attached.

Question #4: New York State Guidelines for Corporate Entities for Professional Practice, Section VIII, Section 7210, requires all business entities providing professional engineering in the State of New York obtain a “Certificate of Authorization” to provide Engineering in New York State.
New York City’s Electrical Code does not specifically state the need for a Certificate of Authority to provide engineering, or be the Designer of Record, within their design and drawing submittals.
This can be addressed by, at minimum, requiring the engineering firm which submits a Construction Permit request to NY City, must have a NY State certified Certificate of Authority to provide engineering in the State of New York.
This would allow for engineering firms, with a Professional Engineer (PE) on staff, to complete the design and be the Designer of Record, without maintaining a Certificate of Authority to perform engineering. Ensuring the design satisfies the NY City Electrical Code could be by a separate engineering firm, which does maintain a NY State certified Certificate of Authority to provide engineering in the State of New York. Do you agree? YES ___ NO ___

No. Concrete encasement doesn’t provide fire rating. It permits the wiring to be considered outside of the building. Only listed assemblies in accordance with Chapter 17 of NYC Building Code provide fire rating.

All wiring methods mentioned under 695.14(E) are acceptable for wiring between the FP controller and the FP motor

No. see answers above.

This question is under the purview of NYS and should be forwarded to NYS for reply.

Section 695.6(B) – (10/5/2020)

Confirmation is respectfully requested that feeders from the (4) diesel-engine driven generators’ output enclosures to the paralleling switchgear need not comply with the same requirements as fire pump feeders, as outlined in Article 695.6.B of the New York City 2011 Electrical Code. Article 695.6.B requires the fire pump supply conductors on the load side of the final disconnecting means and overcurrent device follow these requirements.

The two fire pumps for the project both are fed from a paralleling switchgear line-up, which parallels the (4) diesel engine driven generators, upon a failure of any engine or its associated feeder the load would automatically transfer to the other engines. The emergency source of each fire pump ATS is served from a main bus tap and provided with an external fused disconnect switch located within the same room as the paralleling switchgear. Additionally, the feeders from each generator output enclosure will comply with Article 700.9.D.1 (installed in spaces or areas fully protected by an approved automatic fire suppression system.) Attachments:

SKE-1 Emergency Power System One Line Diagram (See attached Diagram)

Generator conductors are not protected as required by 240.4 and 445.12, generator conductors shall be installed in accordance with 230.6 as required by NYC EC 700.10(B) and 701(B)(2).

Chapter 7: Special Conditions (Code Section 700.1 to 770.182)

Articles 700,701, and 702 – (6/1/2020)

One can upgrade a legally required load to an emergency load by following Article 700 wiring requirements for that load. We cannot upgrade an optional standby load to Article 700 though we can upgrade it a legally required load by following the requirements of Article 701 (see ECRIC minutes of April 2nd, 2014). My question concern circuits for heat tracing for sprinkler piping to prevent the system from freezing. I am not sure how to initially classify this so I can determine where I can wire it from.

Automatic sprinkler system is a type of Fire Protection System and shall be designed and installed to be protected from any damages including water freezing. The freeze protection method is a design preference.

Section 700.9(B) – (4/3/2020)

This building is a 20 story apartment building in Jamaica, Queens. There is a 4000A service and a 350kW generator. An 800A breaker on the generator feeds a generator distribution panel which contains four breakers. Each breaker feeds an ATS. One feeds Emergency Lighting, one feeds Elevators, and two feed Optional Standby loads.

Is it code compliant to have EM, SB, and LRSB loads fed from the same distribution panel?

In the event that this is not code compliant, can fiberglass barriers be installed in between each breaker to isolate the feeders from one another?

No.

Yes, when work is performed by an approved vendor

Section 700.9(B) – (4/3/2020)

This building is a 30 story apartment building in Manhattan. There is a 4000A service and a 350kW generator. An 800A breaker on the generator feeds Optional Standby ATS, and another 800A breaker feeds Emergency + Legally Required Standby ATS. This ATS feeds a distribution panel which serves both Emergency + Legally Required Standby loads. Is it necessary to provide a separate ATS for Emergency and another ATS for Legally Required Standby with individual feeds from the generator, or can both be served by one generator breaker with one feed for the EM+LRSB?

No. Separation shall be at the alternate power source (generator) with individual ATSs for the different branches. The meeting adjourned at 12:00 PM.

Section 700.9(D)(1) – (2/4/2020)

Per the 2008 NEC section 700.9 (D)(1), emergency feeders need some means of fire protection if there are assembly occupancies of not less than 1000 persons. Is a means of fire protection required if there are multiple assembly occupancies that do not exceed 1000 persons independently but do exceed 1000 persons together?

If a means of fire protection is required, are emergency feeders running on the exterior of the building required to be fire rated if properly protected in from the elements per 2008 NEC section 700.9 (C)?

No. Your described installation does not require fire protection as described and the building is less than 75 ft. in height.

No. The compliance with 700.9(C) does not necessary mandate fire protection when the design and installation comply with all requirements in the section.

Section 700.9(D)(1)(3) – (8/3/2020)

Please provide clarification concerning low voltage control start wires form ATS’s to Emergency Generator as below:

Most High-Rise Buildings have at least Three ATS’s: Dedicated Fire Alarm ATS, Dedicated Fire Pump ATS and Emergency Lights/Elevator ATS.

Please advise which Low Voltage Control Start Wiring configuration is acceptable as per 700.9(D)(3) section below assuming three ATS’s mentioned above are installed:

Low Voltage Control Start Wiring can be daisy chained between All ATS’s with dedicated Electrical Conduit for control wires between ATS’s and then One Dedicated Electrical Conduit housing pair of low voltage wires for Start run to Emergency Generator.

Each ATS must have a pair of low voltage control start wires run directly from each ATS to Emergency Generator but can share Electrical Conduit housing only control start wires to the Emergency Generator (a pair of low voltage control start wires for each ATS).

Each ATS must have a dedicated Low Voltage Control Wire Electrical Conduit run from Each ATS to the Emergency Generator. This would result in three dedicated low voltage Electrical Conduit Runs – one from each ATS to the Emergency Generator terminating at the Emergency Generator Control Board.

II. Circuit Wiring
700.9 Wiring, Emergency System.
(D) Fire Protection
(3) Generator Control Wiring. Control conductors installed between the transfer equipment and the emergency generator shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring and shall meet the conditions of 700.9(D)(1).

Your scenarios are not inclusive of the different electrical systems and equipment that might be present in a typical high-rise building;

Fire Pump when required or provided with alternate power source, the Generator Control Wiring shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring and shall be protected against fire using one of the three methods listed in subsection 695.14(F). Please note that the additional fire protection methods in 700.9(D)(1) are not all acceptable.

ATSs that serves emergency loads as defined by NYC Building Code provided against fire as required by Building Code and not including fire protection equipment shall be permitted to daisy-chained together and shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring. Such ATSs’ Generator Control Wiring shall be protected in accordance with section 700.9(D).

ATS serving the Fire Alarm equipment shall be kept entirely independent of all other wiring in the same manner that PLFA and NPLFA are kept entirely independent of all other wiring. Fire protection shall match the circuit survivability required for PLFA circuits.

ATSs for Legally Required Standby Systems and Optional Standby Systems shall eb permitted to be daisy-chained and installed together or with other circuits. Note that Optional Standby ATS and equipment are not permitted in the same room with Article 700 and 701, see NYC BC, Chapter 27.

Exception to No. 4; Where an ATS is service Fire Service Elevator or Occupant Evacuation Elevator, the requirement of the Fire Pump Generator Control Wiring shall apply. See NYC BB, Chapter 30.

Section 700.27 - (6/1/2020)

The NYC Elec. Code Section 700.27 states:

"Emergency system(s) overcurrent devices shall be selectively coordinated in the overcurrent range with all supply side overcurrent protective devices."

NEC 2008 Section 700.27 also includes 2 exceptions to the coordination requirements, these are:

"(1) Between transformer primary and secondary overcurrent protective devices, where only one overcurrent protective device or set of overcurrent protective devices exists on the transformer secondary,
(2) Between overcurrent protective devices of the same size (ampere rating) in series."
The wording of the NYCEC amendment implies that the 2 exclusions stated in the NEC have been removed.
Do the 2 exceptions stated in the NEC also apply to the NYEC?

Yes. The NYC amendment did not delete the exceptions for section 700.27.

Section 760.3(F) - (4/3/2020)

My question pertains to the use of Fiber Optics cabling for indoor connections between fire alarm control panels, commonly referred to in NYC as Data Gathering Panels or DGPs.

My references are: The 2014 NYC Building code (Chapter 9), Appendix Q (Rule 3616-04), and the 2011 NYC Electrical Code

Question 1: Is it permitted to use Fiber Optics indoors to connect fire alarm systems (Data Gathering Panels or DGPs) together assuming the fire alarm control panels are UL-listed to do such and the connections meet 760.3 (F)?

Question 2: If permitted; other than 760.3 (F), is there any code that would limit the use of such installation?

Question 3: Is there a temperature requirement for Ferber Optic cable?

Your question was answered previously. Please refer to the Section 760.3(F) - August 6, 2014.

ADMINISTRATIVE: General Requirements

Building Code, Section 2702.1.7.2.1 – (10/5/2020)

Per our interpretation of BC 2702.1.7.2.1, equipment associated with the emergency power system shall be allowed to be installed inside the ATS room, however, we would lie clarification on the following:

Can a step-down transformer installed in the feeder connected from the emergency generator and energizing the line side of the Fire Alarm System ATS be installed in the same room as the Fire Alarm System ATS? (See attached sketch)

Below is a screen shot from the NYC BC Chapter 27

2702.1.7.2.1 Automatic transfer device room. Equipment located within the automatic transfer device room shall be limited to equipment associated with the emergency or standby power systems. Piping within the room shall be limited to sprinkler piping.

Yes. Transformer installed in compliance with 760.41(D)(1) and (4) shall be permitted to occupy the Automatic Transfer Device(s) Room with Fire Alarm ATS and other associated emergency (Article) and standby (Article 701) equipment.

Building Code, Section 2702.1.7.2.1 – (10/5/2020)

NYC 2014 Building Code Section 2702.1.7.2.1 Automatic Transfer Device Room states the following - "Equipment located within the automatic transfer device room shall be limited to equipment associated with the emergency or standby power systems. Piping within the room shall be limited to sprinkler piping."

For the dedicated 2-hour rated room containing life safety system ATS(s) serving egress lighting, fire alarm, etc., is it permissible for a step-down transformer (and associated transformer secondary side fused disconnect switch) connected to the life safety emergency generator which in turn serves the line side of the life safety system ATS permitted to be located in the same room as the life safety system ATS? See attached for partial riser diagram of system configuration in question.

Yes. Transformer installed in compliance with 760.41(D)(1) and (4) shall be permitted to occupy the Automatic Transfer Device(s) Room with Fire Alarm ATS and other associated emergency (Article) and standby (Article 701) equipment.

General – Administrative provision – (8/3/2020)

A NYC master electrical business owner that is also the licensee, passes away. The business must hire a new licensed representative. The licensed rep candidate is told that if he agrees to transfer his license to this company, the Licensing Division will require him to sign an affidavit that he accepts responsibility for the deceased licensee's open jobs and they will become his jobs.

Question: Is this true? If yes*, please cite specific section and wording. Thank you very much.

(If possible, please reply via email.)

The individual joining the firm can do it without taking the jobs. If the new license decides to take on the responsibility, the new license can. He just submits a letter to DOB Licensing Unit after the individual approved for the changeover stating that the induvial will be responsible for all the deceased’s open jobs.

Copies of the NYC 2011 Electrical Code (only the amendments to the NEC 2008 Electrical Code) and the New York City Electrical Code (the amendments and the NEC 2008 Electrical Code) can be purchased at the CityStore.

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