How Well Do You Know the National Electrical Code?
In honor of Electrical Safety Month, we’re spending May highlighting ways that professional electricians can protect themselves in their line of work. Published in 1897 by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the National Electrical Code® (NEC) — also commonly known as the NFPA 70 — is a major resource for electrical safety.
The purpose of the NEC is to create a uniform code to keep electricians safe. It is “the most complete set of electrical Code requirements that govern electrical installations in the interest of safety for persons and property” and the most widely adopted Code throughout the world (National Electrical Contractors Association). Learn more about the history of the NEC in our blog post, Shining A Light on the National Electrical Code.
Importance of the National Electrical Code
The National Electrical Code contains standards designed to reduce the risk of fire damage and personal injury from electrical systems, making it a pivotal guide to staying safe while working in the electrical field. The Code is routinely revised to stay current on changes and innovations in the industry, with a new version published every three years; the 2026 edition is slated for release in fall 2025.
While not a federal law, the NEC is commonly mandated in most state and local governments, alongside annual training required to keep an electrical license active. Visit the Independent Alliance of the Electrical Industry to learn more about each state’s requirements and NEC adoption.
Training options can take weeks to complete, but there are creative options available — such as one from City Electric Supply (CES). A branch in Georgia, CES Young Harris, hosts a one-day, eight-hour training course complete with food, product demos, interesting lessons, and even giveaways.
Quiz yourself
Before the next National Electrical Code is published, do a quick brush-up on your knowledge with our short pop quiz!
Get up to code
Did you know you can access the National Electrical Code on the go? Electricians can subscribe to NFPA LiNK for convenient, 24/7 access to the codes and standards required for the jobsite. Bookmark your most frequently used sections, search by keyword, and even filter the content by your given situation.
And don’t forget to stock up on gear, tools, and equipment that help you stay safe! City Electric Supply has industry-leading supplies designed for electrical safety. Check out insulated tools by Wiha, tamper-resistant outlets by Pass & Seymour by Legrand, high-quality wire and cable, and much more. Shop at www.cityelectricsupply.com or visit your local branch!