Brian Hall

NEC® Requirements, Explained The National Electrical Code® (NEC®) Section 408.4 requires panel schedules and circuit directories to include enough detail so that anyone—whether it’s a building occupant, maintenance worker, or service technician—can easily locate the correct overcurrent device for a given circuit or area. This requirement exists for one simple reason: clarity saves time, and time saves lives when working around electrical equipment. Panel Schedules vs. Circuit Directories:...

A better way to verify absence of voltage It’s easy to trust a familiar tool, especially one you use every day. But even the most reliable voltmeter can fail without warning, so it's important to know what to do if it happens. Risks of Voltmeter Failure A damaged lead, a wrong setting, or an internal fault can turn a routine task into a life-threatening situation. Many shocks, arc flashes, and electrocutions have occurred because a voltmeter gave a false “zero” reading — indicating the...

NEC 2026 Section 110.16 update series The 2026 edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC) introduces major updates to Section 110.16 – Arc-Flash Hazard Marking, broadening the range of electrical equipment that must display arc-flash hazard labels. a Guidant Power arc flash label Hazard Labels Now Required on a Wider Variety of Equipment In previous NEC editions, labeling was only required on service equipment or feeder-supplied equipment rated 1,000 amps or higher. Under NEC 2026 Section...