FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the difference between the NESC® and the NEC®?
• Do communications utilty workers and power utility workers need to follow the NESC® or OSHA rules?
• What is the difference between a "Code book" and a "handbook"?

What is the difference between the NESC® and the NEC®?

The National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) governs the construction, operation, and maintenance of utility lines, substations, and generating plants. It covers both electric power and communication lines from the generating plant to the customer's meter. The NESC® used primarily by utility employees.

The National Electrical Code® (NEC®) governs the customer's installation after the meter: homes, factories, industrial facilities, etc. The NEC® is used primarily by homeowners, electrical contractors, and electrical designers.

Do communications utilty workers and power utility workers need to follow the NESC® or OSHA rules?

Both.

The National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) has been adopted in some form by each state in the United States except California. It contains work rules for power and communication utilty workers. It also contains rules for power and communication poles, lines, and equipment.

OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) is a branch of the U.S. Department of Labor. The OSHA standards cover the responsibilities for employers and for employees in the United States, including power and communication workers. Each employee should be knowledgeable of the OSHA requirements that cover the work that employee is engaged in. Employees may not work closer than 10 ft to energized electrical lines and equipment without training and knowledge of the electrical hazards involved.

What is the difference between a "Code book" and a "handbook"?

A "Code book" such as The National Electrical Safety Code is a standard which governs installation, construction, and maintenance of equipment and lines. The Code is written in technical and legal language and can be difficult to apply.

A "handbook" such as McGraw-Hill's National Electrical Safety Code Handbook contains descriptions, graphics, and photos that explain the requirements of the Code and how it is applied. The handbook helps you to understand the requirements of the Code.

Since the actual requirements are in the Code book and aids to understanding the Code are contained in the handbook, we recommend purchasing both.