The Article 525 of the National Electrical Code, also known as NEC, discusses the necessary requirements for circuses, carnivals, fairs and the likes. It provides assistance and guidelines about the portable wiring equipment and wiring in and on all structures that can be seen within their featured rides and establishments. Read on to know about NEC Rules.
NEC Rules for Carnivals, Fairs and Circuses
Carnivals, fairs and circuses are just among the favorite places of families to bond. To ensure that these are safe from potential electrical danger, the NEC has ensured that operators adhere to the standards.
Portable structures, defined as units designed to be moved, including but not limited to amusement rides, attractions, concessions, tents, trailers, trucks, and similar units, are required to follow the aforementioned rule.
These locations are typically powered by a fused disconnect that supplies a termination box. These should comply with Section 525-15 for construction and placement and must be protected against overcurrent in accordance with Article 240. These are also not allowed to have receptacles within or run out of them without the presence of a fuse or breaker protection. This is a violation of Section 525-15(c), which states, “receptacles shall have overcurrent protection installed within the box. The overcurrent protection shall not exceed the ampere rating of the receptacle, except as permitted in Article 430 for motor loads.”
For cords and cables that are used outside, these should comply with NEC 525-13 that states “Where flexible cords or cables are used and are not subject to physical damage, they shall be permitted to be listed for hard usage. When used outdoors, flexible cords and cables shall also be listed for wet locations and shall be sunlight resistant.” Section 523-13(f) discusses the protection of cords, stating “Flexible cords or cables run on the ground, where accessible to the public, shall be covered with approved nonconductive mats. Cables and mats shall be arranged so as not to present a tripping hazard.” Lastly, Section 523-13(d) states that “Flexible cords or cables shall be continuous without splice or tap between boxes or fittings. Cord connectors shall not be laid on the ground unless listed for wet locations.”
A new requirement was added to test grounding equipment:
The continuity of the grounding conductor system used to reduce electrical shock hazards as required by 406.3(C) [Receptacles – Methods of Grounding], 250.114 [Equipment Grounding – Equipment connected by Cord and Plug], 250.138 [Methods of Equipment Grounding – Cord-and-plug-connected Equipment], and 527.4(D) [Temporary Wiring -Receptacles] must be verified each time the portable electrical equipment is connected. Figure 525-1
Know more about the NEC Rules
To read more about the NEC Rules, don’t forget to visit the National Fire Protection Association’s site. They provide helpful assistance and knowledge resource for fire, electrical and related hazards.