CHAPTER 5 - Common Threads

Abstract

Electricity is utilized for power, lighting, and control in manufacturing, equipment, and facilities. It operates motors, appliances, pumps and compressors, refrigeration equipment, tools, cranes, lighting, HVAC equipment, welding machines, computers, battery chargers, UPS systems, and other equipment. The panel boards, disconnect switches, circuit breakers and fuses, and other power distribution equipment used to feed electrical equipment, could be utilized in any plant, commercial building, or industrial facility including petroleum, chemical, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, utilities, and ship building. Electrical codes, standards, and recommended practices governing the use of that power distribution and control equipment is a common thread to all occupancies. Low-voltage power distribution and lighting equipment and materials would be one common thread to all occupancies. Emergency generators, UPS systems, battery/battery charger systems, emergency lighting systems, fire detection and alarms, security systems, and lightning protection are all examples that have codes, standards, and recommended practices common threads in different occupancies. Some common thread codes, standards, and recommended practices are voluntary, consensus developed by industry groups, professional, and standards originating organizations. Others have been promulgated by governmental agencies having the regulatory authority to mandate their implementation. Some were created for public safety, while others have been promulgated for employee safety. Some have been established for fire prevention while others may have been created to prevent electrical shock and personal injury.