Updated electric code welcomed by industry.

The City updated its electric code by adopting some of the latest standards of the 2002 National Electric Code, making life easier for those in the electrical engineering industry.

"New York City had the first electrical code in the country." said Frank Lorenz, partner at AKS Engineering. "Before the city adopted the national code there were issues not dealt with. Now when the industry does something they know that it's conforming to the code, not just giving it our best shot."

In 2001, recognizing the need to bring the City's antiquated electrical code up-to-date, the City Council enacted Local Law 64 of 2001 adopting the NEC as the City's electrical code. The latest bill updates New York City's electrical code to bring it in line with the 2002 edition of the National Fire Protection Association's National Electrical Code, also known as the NEC.

"The legislation continues the modernization process begun with Local Law, 64 of 2001, giving New York City the most up-to-date technical standards in the country, while simultaneously contributing to the City's rebuilding efforts," said Mayor Michael Bloomberg. "Above all, this bill demonstrates the effectiveness and utility of public/private partnerships."

In addition, beginning this year and continuing every third year thereafter, the New York City Department of Buildings is required to submit to the City Council proposed amendments to the code based upon the latest edition of the NEC.

"I think the most important thing is that it requires the code to be reviewed and upgraded every three years," said Joseph D'Angelo, executive secretary, New York Electrical Contractor's Association.

Lorenz agrees.

"We now have the opportunity to take the advancements in technology of the nation and decide whether or not to approve them for New York City," said Lorenz.

Adopting national standards also makes it easier for electrical engineering firms from other states to work in the City.

Some specific amendments to the code may also allow builders to save money on electrical contracts.

"Essentially, it makes electrical installations for office space more economical," said Charles C. Copeland, PE, senior vice president, Goldman Copeland Associates PC. "You can now put more receptacles, more outlets on one circuit by using 20 amp instead of 15."

The number of lights for track lightening, however, has been reduced.

Specific changes to code can be obtained from the City and getting the latest copy of the National Electric Code is also recommended, said Copeland.

"They didn't accept the national code carte blanche," Copeland said. "They made it pertinent to New York City."

There is a six-month phase in period for the new code beginning Jan. 1, 2004. The new standards must be used as of July 1, 2004. Most companies are already using the new standards, said D'Angelo.