WAC

296-24-956 Electrical.

296-24-95601 Definitions applicable to WAC 296-24-956 through 296-24-985.

296-24-95603 Electric utilization systems.

296-24-95605 General requirements.

296-24-95607 Wiring design and protection.

296-24-95609 Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

296-24-95611 Specific purpose equipment and installations.

296-24-95613 Hazardous (classified) locations.

296-24-95615 Special systems.

296-24-95617 Reserved.

206-24-95699 Appendices. Appendix A - Reference documents.

296-24-960 Working on or near exposed energized parts.

296-24-965 Safety-related work practices.

296-24-970 Training.

296-24-975 Selection and use of work practices.

296-24-980 Safeguards for personnel protection.

296-24-985 Use of equipment

WAC 296-24-956 Electrical. 

This section addresses electrical safety requirements that are necessary for the practical safeguarding of employees in their workplaces.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 82-08-026 (Order 82-10), 296-24-956, filed 3/30/82.]

WAC 296-24-95601 Definitions applicable to WAC 296-24-956 through 296-24-985. 

Unless the context indicates otherwise, words used in this section shall have the meaning given.

(1) Acceptable. An installation or equipment is acceptable to the director of labor and industries, and approved within the meaning of this section:

(a) If it is accepted, or certified, or listed, or labeled, or otherwise determined to be safe by a nationally recognized testing laboratory; or

(b) With respect to an installation or equipment of a kind which no nationally recognized testing laboratory accepts, certifies, lists, labels, or determines to be safe, if it is inspected or tested by another federal agency, or by a state, municipal, or other local authority responsible for enforcing occupational safety provisions of the National Electrical Code, and found in compliance with the provisions of the National Electrical Code as applied in this section; or

(c) With respect to custom-made equipment or related installations which are designed, fabricated for, and intended for use by a particular customer, if it is determined to be safe for its intended use by its manufacturer on the basis of test data which the employer keeps and makes available for inspection to the director and his/her authorized representatives. Refer to federal regulation 29 CFR 1910.7 for definition of nationally recognized testing laboratory.

(2) Accepted. An installation is "accepted" if it has been inspected and found by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to conform to specified plans or to procedures of applicable codes.

(3) Accessible. (As applied to wiring methods.) Capable of being removed or exposed without damaging the building structure of finish, or not permanently closed in by the structure or finish of the building. (See "concealed" and "exposed.")

(4) Accessible. (As applied to equipment.) Admitting close approach; not guarded by locked doors, elevation, or other effective means. (See "readily accessible.")

(5) Ampacity. Current-carrying capacity of electric conductors expressed in amperes.

(6) Appliances. Utilization equipment, generally other than industrial, normally built in standardized sizes or types, which is installed or connected as a unit to perform one or more functions such as clothes washing, air conditioning, food mixing, deep frying, etc.

(7) Approved. Acceptable to the authority enforcing this section. The authority enforcing this section is the director of labor and industries. The definition of "acceptable" indicates what is acceptable to the director and therefore approved within the meaning of this section.

(8) Approved for the purpose. Approved for a specific purpose, environment, or application described in a particular standard requirement.

Suitability of equipment or materials for a specific purpose, environment or application may be determined by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or other organization concerned with product evaluation as part of its listing and labeling program. (See "labeled" or "listed.")

(9) Armored cable. Type AC armored cable is a fabricated assembly of insulated conductors in a flexible metallic enclosure.

(10) Askarel. A generic term for a group of nonflammable synthetic chlorinated hydrocarbons used as electrical insulating media. Askarels of various compositional types are used. Under arcing conditions the gases produced, while consisting predominantly of noncombustible hydrogen chloride, can include varying amounts of combustible gases depending upon the askarel type.

(11) Attachment plug (plug cap) (cap). A device which, by insertion in a receptacle, establishes connection between the conductors of the attached flexible cord and the conductors connected permanently to the receptacle.

(12) Automatic. Self-acting, operating by its own mechanism when actuated by some impersonal influence, as, for example, a change in current strength, pressure, temperature, or mechanical configuration.

(13) Bare conductor, see "conductor."

(14) Bonding. The permanent joining of metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path which will assure electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct safely any current likely to be imposed.

(15) Bonding jumper. A reliable conductor to assure the required electrical conductivity between metal parts required to be electrically connected.

(16) Branch circuit. The circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s).

(17) Building. A structure which stands alone or which is cut off from adjoining structures by fire walls with all openings therein protected by approved fire doors.

(18) Cabinet. An enclosure designed either for surface or flush mounting, and provided with a frame, mat, or trim in which a swinging door or doors are or may be hung.

(19) Cable tray system. A cable tray system is a unit or assembly of units or sections, and associated fittings, made of metal or other noncombustible materials forming a rigid structural system used to support cables. Cable tray systems include ladders, troughs, channels, solid bottom trays, and other similar structures.

(20) Cablebus. Cablebus is an approved assembly of insulated conductors with fittings and conductor terminations in a completely enclosed, ventilated, protective metal housing.

(21) Center pivot irrigation machine. A center pivot irrigation machine is a multimotored irrigation machine which revolves around a central pivot and employs alignment switches or similar devices to control individual motors.

(22) Certified. Equipment is "certified" if it (a) has been tested and found by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to meet nationally recognized standards or to be safe for use in a specified manner, or (b) is of a kind whose production is periodically inspected by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, and (c) it bears a label, tag, or other record of certification.

(23) Circuit breaker.

(a) (600 volts nominal, or less.) A device designed to open and close a circuit by nonautomatic means and to open the circuit automatically on a predetermined overcurrent without injury to itself when properly applied within its rating.

(b) (Over 600 volts, nominal.) A switching device capable of making, carrying, and breaking currents under normal circuit conditions, and also making, carrying for a specified time, and breaking currents under specified abnormal circuit conditions, such as those of short circuit.

(24) Class I locations. Class I locations are those in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitible mixtures. Class I locations include the following:

(a) Class I, Division 1. A Class I, Division 1 location is a location:

(i) In which hazardous concentrations of flammable gases or vapors may exist under normal operating conditions; or

(ii) In which hazardous concentrations of such gases or vapors may exist frequently because of repair or maintenance operations or because of leakage; or

(iii) In which breakdown or faulty operation of equipment or processes might release hazardous concentrations of flammable gases or vapors, and might also cause simultaneous failure of electric equipment.

Note: This classification usually includes locations where volatile flammable liquids or liquefied flammable gases are transferred from one container to another; interiors of spray booths and areas in the vicinity of spraying and painting operations where volatile flammable solvents are used; locations containing open tanks or vats of volatile flammable liquids; drying rooms or compartments for the evaporation of flammable solvents; locations containing fat and oil extraction equipment using volatile flammable solvents; portions of cleaning and dyeing plants where flammable liquids are used; gas generator rooms and other portions of gas manufacturing plants where flammable gas may escape; inadequately ventilated pump rooms for flammable gas or for volatile flammable liquids; the interiors of refrigerators and freezers in which volatile flammable materials are stored in open, lightly stoppered, or easily ruptured containers; and all other locations where ignitible concentrations of flammable vapors or gases are likely to occur in the course of normal operations.

(b) Class I, Division 2. A Class I, Division 2 location is a location:

(i) In which volatile flammable liquids or flammable gases are handled, processed, or used, but in which the hazardous liquids, vapors, or gases will normally be confined within closed containers or closed systems from which they can escape only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems, or in case of abnormal operation of equipment; or

(ii) In which hazardous concentrations of gases or vapors are normally prevented by positive mechanical ventilation, and which might become hazardous through failure or abnormal operations of the ventilating equipment; or

(iii) That is adjacent to a Class I, Division 1 location, and to which hazardous concentrations of gases or vapors might occasionally be communicated unless such communication is prevented by adequate positive-pressure ventilation from a source of clean air, and effective safeguards against ventilation failure are provided.

Note: This classification usually includes locations where volatile flammable liquids or flammable gases or vapors are used, but which would become hazardous only in case of an accident or of some unusual operating condition. The quantity of flammable material that might escape in case of accident, the adequacy of ventilating equipment, the total area involved, and the record of the industry or business with respect to explosions or fires are all factors that merit consideration in determining the classification and extent of each location.

Piping without valves, checks, meters, and similar devices would not ordinarily introduce a hazardous condition even though used for flammable liquids or gases. Locations used for the storage of flammable liquids or a liquefied or compressed gases in sealed containers would not normally be considered hazardous unless also subject to other hazardous conditions.

Electrical conduits and their associated enclosures separated from process fluids by a single seal or barrier are classed as a Division 2 location if the outside of the conduit and enclosures is a nonhazardous location.

back to top

 

(25) Class II locations. Class II locations are those that are hazardous because of the presence of combustible dust. Class II locations include the following:

(a) Class II, Division 1. A Class II, Division 1 location is a location:

(i) In which combustible dust is or may be in suspension in the air under normal operating conditions, in quantities sufficient to produce explosives or ignitible mixtures; or

(ii) Where mechanical failure or abnormal operation of machinery or equipment might cause such explosive or ignitible mixtures to be produced, and might also provide a source of ignition through simultaneous failure of electric equipment, operation of protection devices, or from other causes; or

(iii) In which combustible dusts of an electrically conductive nature may be present.

Note: This classification may include areas of grain handling and processing plants, starch plants, sugar-pulverizing plants, malting plants, hay-grinding plants, coal pulverizing plants, areas where metal dusts and powders are produced or processed, and other similar locations which contain dust producing machinery and equipment (except where the equipment is dust-tight or vented to the outside). These areas would have combustible dust in the air, under normal operating conditions, in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitible mixtures. Combustible dusts which are electrically nonconductive include dusts produced in the handling and processing of grain and grain products, pulverized sugar and cocoa, dried egg and milk powders, pulverized spices, starch and pastes, potato and woodflour, oil meal from beans and seed, dried hay, and other organic materials which may produce combustible dusts when processed or handled. Dusts containing magnesium or aluminum are particularly hazardous and the use of extreme caution is necessary to avoid ignition and explosion.

(b) Class II, Division 2. A Class II, Division 2 location is a location in which:

(i) Combustible dust will not normally be in suspension in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitible mixtures; and dust accumulations are normally insufficient to interfere with the normal operation of electrical equipment or other apparatus; or

(ii) Dust may be in suspension in the air as a result of infrequent malfunctioning of handling or processing equipment, and dust accumulations resulting therefrom may be ignitible by abnormal operation or failure of electrical equipment or other apparatus.

Note: This classification includes locations where dangerous concentrations of suspended dust would not be likely but where dust accumulations might form on or in the vicinity of electric equipment. These areas may contain equipment from which appreciable quantities of dust would escape under abnormal operating conditions or be adjacent to a Class II Division 1 location, as described above, into which an explosive or ignitible concentration of dust may be put into suspension under abnormal operating conditions.

(26) Class III locations. Class III locations are those that are hazardous because of the presence of easily ignitible fibers or flyings but in which such fibers or flyings are not likely to be in suspension in the air in quantities sufficient to produce ignitible mixtures. Class III locations include the following:

(a) Class III, Division 1. A Class III, Division 1 location is a location in which easily ignitible fibers or materials producing combustible flyings are handled, manufactured, or used.

Note: Such locations usually include some parts of rayon, cotton, and other textile mills; combustible fiber manufacturing and processing plants; cotton gins and cottonseed mills; flax-processing plants; clothing manufacturing plants; woodworking plants, and establishments; and industries involving similar hazardous processes or conditions.

Easily ignitible fibers and flyings include rayon, cotton (including cotton linters and cotton waste), sisal or henequen, istle, jute, hemp, tow, cocoa fiber, oakum, baled waste kapok, Spanish moss, excelsior, and other materials of similar nature.

(b) Class III, Division 2. A Class III, Division 2 location is a location in which easily ignitible fibers are stored or handled, except in process of manufacture.

(27) Collector ring. A collector ring is an assembly of slip rings for transferring electrical energy from a stationary to a rotating member.

(28) Concealed. Rendered inaccessible by the structure or finish of the building. Wires in concealed raceways are considered concealed, even though they may become accessible by withdrawing them. (See "accessible. (As applied to wiring methods."))

(29) Conductor.

(a) Bare. A conductor having no covering or electrical insulation whatsoever.

(b) Covered. A conductor encased within material of composition or thickness that is not recognized as electrical insulation.

(c) Insulated. A conductor encased within material of composition and thickness that is recognized as electrical insulation.

(30) Conduit body. A separate portion of a conduit or tubing system that provides access through a removable cover(s) to the interior of the system at a junction of two or more sections of the system or at a terminal point of the system. Boxes such as FS and FD or larger cast or sheet metal boxes are not classified as conduit bodies.

(31) Controller. A device or group of devices that serves to govern, in some predetermined manner, the electric power delivered to the apparatus to which it is connected.

(32) Cooking unit, counter-mounted. A cooking appliance designed for mounting in or on a counter and consisting of one or more heating elements, internal wiring, and built-in or separately mountable controls. (See "oven, wall-mounted.")

(33) Covered conductor. See "conductor."

(34) Cutout. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) An assembly of a fuse support with either a fuseholder, fuse carrier, or disconnecting blade. The fuseholder or fuse carrier may include a conducting element (fuse link), or may act as the disconnecting blade by the inclusion of an nonfusible member.

(35) Cutout box. An enclosure designed for surface mounting and having swinging doors or covers secured directly to and telescoping with the walls of the box proper. (See "cabinet.")

(36) Damp location. See "location."

(37) Dead front. Without live parts exposed to a person on the operating side of the equipment.

(38) Device. A unit of an electrical system which is intended to carry but not utilize electric energy.

(39) Dielectric heating. Dielectric heating is the heating of a nominally insulating material due to its own dielectric losses when the materials is placed in a varying electric filed.

(40) Disconnecting means. A device, or group of devices, or other means by which the conductors of a circuit can be disconnected from their source of supply.

(41) Disconnecting (or isolating) switch. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) A mechanical switching device used for isolating a circuit or equipment from a source of power.

(42) Dry location. See "location."

(43) Electric sign. A fixed, stationary, or portable self-contained, electrically illuminated utilization equipment with words or symbols designed to convey information or attract attention.

(44) Enclosed. Surrounded by a case, housing, fence or walls which will prevent persons from accidentally contacting energized parts.

(45) Enclosure. The case or housing of apparatus, or the fence or walls surrounding an installation to prevent personnel from accidentally contacting energized parts, or to protect the equipment from physical damage.

(46) Equipment. A general term including material, fittings, devices, appliances, fixtures, apparatus, and the like, used as a part of, or in connection with, an electrical installation.

(47) Equipment grounding conductor. See "grounding conductor, equipment."

(48) Explosion-proof apparatus. Apparatus enclosed in a case that is capable of withstanding an explosion of a specified gas or vapor which may occur within it and of preventing the ignition of a specified gas or vapor surrounding the enclosure by sparks, flashes, or explosion of the gas or vapor within, and which operates at such an external temperature that it will not ignite a surrounding flammable atmosphere.

(49) Exposed. (As applied to live parts.) Capable of being inadvertently touched or approached nearer than a safe distance by a person. It is applied to parts not suitably guarded, isolated, or insulated. (See "accessible" and "concealed.")

(50) Exposed. (As applied to wiring methods.) On or attached to the surface or behind panels designed to allow access. (See "accessible. (As applied to wiring methods."))

(51) Exposed. (For the purpose of WAC 296-24-95615(5), communications systems.) Where the circuit is in such a position that in case of failure of supports or insulation, contact with another circuit may result.

(52) Externally operable. Capable of being operated without exposing the operator to contact with live parts.

(53) Feeder. All circuit conductors between the service equipment, or the generator switchboard of an isolated plant, and the final branch-circuit overcurrent device.

(54) Fitting. An accessory such as a locknut, bushing, or other part of a wiring system that is intended primarily to perform a mechanical rather than an electrical function.

(55) Fuse. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) An overcurrent protective device with a circuit opening fusible part that is heated and severed by the passage of overcurrent through it. A fuse comprises all the parts that form a unit capable of performing the prescribed functions. It may or may not be the complete device necessary to connect it into an electrical circuit.

(56) Ground. A conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental, between an electrical circuit or equipment and the earth, or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth.

(57) Grounded. Connected to earth or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth.

(58) Grounded, effectively. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) Permanently connected to earth through a ground connection of sufficiently low impedance and having sufficient ampacity that ground fault current which may occur cannot build up to voltages dangerous to personnel.

(59) Grounded conductor. A system or circuit conductor that is intentionally grounded.

(60) Grounding conductor. A conductor used to connect equipment or the grounded circuit of a wiring system to a grounding electrode or electrodes.

(61) Grounding conductor, equipment. The conductor used to connect the noncurrent-carrying metal parts of equipment, raceways, and other enclosures to the system grounded conductor and/or the grounding electrode conductor at the service equipment or at the source of a separately derived system.

(62) Grounding electrode conductor. The conductor used to connect the grounding electrode to the equipment grounding conductor and/or to the grounded conductor of the circuit at the service equipment or at the source of a separately derived system.

(63) Ground-fault circuit-interrupter. A device whose function is to interrupt the electric circuit to the load when a fault current to ground exceeds some predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the overcurrent protective device of the supply circuit.

(64) Guarded. Covered, shielded, fenced, enclosed, or otherwise protected by means of suitable covers, casings, barriers, rails, screens, mats, or platforms to remove the likelihood of approach to a point of danger or contact by persons or objects.

(65) Health care facilities. Buildings or portions of buildings and mobile homes that contain, but are not limited to, hospitals, nursing homes, extended care facilities, clinics, and medical and dental offices, whether fixed or mobile.

(66) Heating equipment. For the purposes of WAC 296-24-95611(7), the term "heating equipment" includes any equipment used for heating purposes if heat is generated by induction or dielectric methods.

(67) Hoistway. Any shaftway, hatchway, well hole, or other vertical opening or space in which an elevator or dumbwaiter is designed to operate.

(68) Identified. Identified, as used in reference to a conductor or its terminal, means that such conductor or terminal can be readily recognized as grounded.

(69) Induction heating. Induction heating is the heating of a nominally conductive material due to its own I2R losses when the material is placed in a varying electromagnetic field.

(70) Insulated conductor. See "conductor."

(71) Interrupter switch. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) A switch capable of making, carrying, and interrupting specified currents.

(72) Irrigation machine. An irrigation machine is an electrically driven or controlled machine, with one or more motors, not hand portable, and used primarily to transport and distribute water for agricultural purposes.

(73) Isolated. Not readily accessible to persons unless special means for access are used.

(74) Isolated power system. A system comprising an isolating transformer or its equivalent, a line isolation monitor, and its ungrounded circuit conductors.

(75) Labeled. Equipment is "labeled" if there is attached to it a label, symbol, or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory which, (a) makes periodic inspections of the production of such equipment, and (b) whose labeling indicates compliance with nationally recognized standards or tests to determine safe use in a specified manner.

(76) Lighting outlet. An outlet intended for the direct connection of a lampholder, a lighting fixture, or a pendant cord terminating in a lampholder.

(77) Line-clearance tree trimming. The pruning, trimming, repairing, maintaining, removing, or clearing of trees or cutting of brush that is within 10 feet of electric supply lines and equipment.

(78) Listed. Equipment is "listed" if it is of a kind mentioned in a list which, (a) is published by a nationally recognized laboratory which makes periodic inspection of the production of such equipment, and (b) states such equipment meets nationally recognized standards or has been tested and found safe for use in a specified manner.

(79) Location.

(a) Damp location. Partially protected locations under canopies, marquees, roofed open porches, and like locations, and interior locations subject to moderate degrees of moisture, such as some basements, some barns, and some cold-storage warehouses.

(b) Dry location. A location not normally subject to dampness or wetness. A location classified as dry may be temporarily subject to dampness or wetness, as in the case of a building under construction.

(c) Wet location. Installations underground or in concrete slabs or masonry in direct contact with the earth, and locations subject to saturation with water or other liquids, such as vehicle-washing areas, and locations exposed to weather and unprotected.

(80) Medium voltage cable. Type MV medium voltage cable is a single or multiconductor solid dielectric insulated cable rated 2000 volts or higher.

(81) Metal-clad cable. Type MC cable is a factory assembly of one or more conductors, each individually insulated and enclosed in a metallic sheath of interlocking tape, or a smooth or corrugated tube.

(82) Mineral-insulated metal-sheathed cable. Type MI mineral-insulated metal-sheathed cable is a factory assembly of one or more conductors insulated with a highly compressed refractory mineral insulation and enclosed in a liquidtight and gastight continuous copper sheath.

(83) Mobile x-ray. X-ray equipment mounted on a permanent base with wheels and/or casters for moving while completely assembled.

(84) Nonmetallic-sheathed cable. Nonmetallic-sheathed cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors having an outer sheath of moisture resistant, flame-retardant, nonmetallic material. Nonmetallic sheathed cable is manufactured in the following types:

(a) Type NM. The overall covering has a flame-retardant and moisture-resistant finish.

(b) Type NMC. The overall covering is flame-retardant, moisture-resistant, fungus-resistant, and corrosion-resistant.

(85) Oil (filled) cutout. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) A cutout in which all or part of the fuse support and its fuse link or disconnecting blade are mounted in oil with complete immersion of the contacts and the fusible portion of the conducting element (fuse link), so that arc interruption by severing of the fuse link or by opening of the contacts will occur under oil.

(86) Open wiring on insulators. Open wiring on insulators is an exposed wiring method using cleats, knobs, tubes, and flexible tubing for the protection and support of single insulated conductors run in or on buildings, and not concealed by the building structure.

(87) Outlet. A point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment.

(88) Outline lighting. An arrangement of incandescent lamps or electric discharge tubing to outline or call attention to certain features such as the shape of a building or the decoration of a window.

(89) Oven, wall-mounted. An oven for cooking purposes designed for mounting in or on a wall or other surface and consisting of one or more heating elements, internal wiring, and built-in or separately mountable controls. (See "cooking unit, counter-mounted.")

(90) Overcurrent. Any current in excess of the rated current of equipment or the ampacity of a conductor. It may result from overload (see definition), short circuit, or ground fault. A current in excess of rating may be accommodated by certain equipment and conductors for a given set of conditions. Hence the rules for overcurrent protection are specific for particular situations.

(91) Overload. Operation of equipment in excess of normal, full load rating, or of a conductor in excess of rated ampacity which, when it persists for a sufficient length of time, would cause damage or dangerous overheating. A fault, such as a short circuit or ground fault, is not an overload. (See "overcurrent.")

(92) Panelboard. A single panel or group of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single panel; including buses, automatic overcurrent devices, and with or without switches for the control of light, heat, or power circuits; designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed in or against a wall or partition and accessible only from the front. (See "switchboard.")

(93) Permanently installed decorative fountains and reflection pools. Those that are constructed in the ground, on the ground, or in a building in such a manner that the pool cannot be readily disassembled for storage and are served by electrical circuits of any nature. These units are primarily constructed for their aesthetic value and not intended for swimming or wading.

(94) Permanently installed swimming pools, wading and therapeutic pools. Those that are constructed in the ground, on the ground, or in a building in such a manner that the pool cannot be readily disassembled for storage whether or not served by electrical circuits of any nature.

(95) Portable x-ray. X-ray equipment designed to be hand-carried.

(96) Power and control tray cable. Type TC power and control tray cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors, with or without associated bare or covered grounding conductors under a nonmetallic sheath, approved for installation in cable trays, in raceways, or where supported by a messenger wire.

(97) Power fuse. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) See "fuse."

(98) Power-limited tray cable. Type PLTC nonmetallic-sheathed power limited tray cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors under a nonmetallic jacket.

(99) Power outlet. An enclosed assembly which may include receptacles, circuit breakers, fuseholders, fused switches, buses and watt-hour meter mounting means; intended to supply and control power to mobile homes, recreational vehicles or boats, or to serve as a means for distributing power required to operate mobile or temporarily installed equipment.

(100) Premises wiring system. That interior and exterior wiring, including power, lighting, control, and signal circuit wiring together with all of its associated hardware, fittings, and wiring devices, both permanently and temporarily installed, which extends from the load end of the service drop, or load end of the service lateral conductors to the outlet(s). Such wiring does not include wiring internal to appliances, fixtures, motors, controllers, motor control centers, and similar equipment.

(101) Qualified person. One familiar with the construction and operation of the equipment and the hazards involved.

Note 1: Whether an employee is considered to be a "qualified person" will depend upon various circumstances in the workplace. It is possible and, in fact, likely for an individual to be considered "qualified" with regard to certain equipment in the workplace, but "unqualified" as to other equipment. (See WAC 296-24-970 for training requirements that specifically apply to qualified persons.)

Note 2: An employee who is undergoing on-the-job training and who, in the course of such training, has demonstrated an ability to perform duties safely at his or her level of training and who is under the direct supervision of a qualified person is considered to be a qualified person for the performance of those duties.

(102) Raceway. A channel designed expressly for holding wires, cables, or busbars, with additional functions as permitted in this part. Raceways may be of metal or insulating material, and the term includes rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible metal conduit, flexible metallic tubing, flexible metal conduit, electrical metallic tubing, underfloor raceways, cellular concrete floor raceways, cellular metal floor raceways, surface raceways, wireways, and busways.

(103) Readily accessible. Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections, without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, chairs, etc. (See "accessible.")

(104) Receptacle. A receptacle is a contact device installed at the outlet for the connection of a single attachment plug. A single receptacle is a single contact device with no other contact device on the same yoke. A multiple receptacle is a single device containing two or more receptacles.

(105) Receptacle outlet. An outlet where one or more receptacles are installed.

(106) Remote-control circuit. Any electric circuit that controls any other circuit through a relay or an equivalent device.

(107) Sealable equipment. Equipment enclosed in a case or cabinet that is provided with a means of sealing or locking so that live parts cannot be made accessible without opening the enclosure. The equipment may or may not be operable without opening the enclosure.

(108) Separately derived system. A premises wiring system whose power is derived from generator, transformer, or converter winding and has no direct electrical connection, including a solidly connected grounded circuit conductor, to supply conductors originating in another system.

(109) Service. The conductors and equipment for delivering energy from the electricity supply system to the wiring system of the premises served.

(110) Service cable. Service conductors made up in the form of a cable.

(111) Service conductors. The supply conductors that extend from the street main or from transformers to the service equipment of the premises supplied.

(112) Service drop. The overhead service conductors from the last pole or other aerial support to and including the splices, if any, connecting to the service-entrance conductors at the building or other structure.

(113) Service-entrance cable. Service-entrance cable is a single conductor or multiconductor assembly provided with or without an overall covering, primarily used for services and of the following types:

(a) Type SE, having a flame-retardant, moisture-resistant covering, but not required to have inherent protection against mechanical abuse.

(b) Type use, recognized for underground use, having a moisture-resistant covering, but not required to have a flame-retardant covering or inherent protection against mechanical abuse. Single-conductor cables having an insulation specifically approved for the purpose do not require an outer covering.

(114) Service-entrance conductors, overhead system. The service conductors between the terminals of the service equipment and a point usually outside the building, clear of building walls, where joined by tap or splice to the service drop.

(115) Service entrance conductors, underground system. The service conductors between the terminals of the service equipment and the point of connection to the service lateral. Where service equipment is located outside the building walls, there may be no service-entrance conductors, or they may be entirely outside the building.

(116) Service equipment. The necessary equipment, usually consisting of a circuit breaker or switch and fuses, and their accessories, located near the point of entrance of supply conductors to a building or other structure, or an otherwise defined area, and intended to constitute the main control and means of cutoff of the supply.

(117) Service raceway. The raceway that encloses the service-entrance conductors.

(118) Shielded nonmetallic-sheathed cable. Type SNM, shielded nonmetallic-sheathed cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors in an extruded core of moisture-resistant, flame-resistant nonmetallic material, covered with an overlapping spiral metal tape and wire shield and jacketed with an extruded moisture-resistant, flame-resistant, oil-resistant, corrosion-resistant, fungus-resistant, and sunlight-resistant nonmetallic material.

(119) Show window. Any window used or designed to be used for the display of goods or advertising material, whether it is fully or partly enclosed or entirely open at the rear and whether or not it has a platform raised higher than the street floor level.

(120) Sign. See "electric sign."

(121) Signaling circuit. Any electric circuit that energizes signaling equipment.

(122) Special permission. The written consent of the authority having jurisdiction.

(123) Storable swimming or wading pool. A pool with a maximum dimension of fifteen feet and a maximum wall height of three feet and is so constructed that it may be readily disassembled for storage and reassembled to its original integrity.

(124) Switchboard. A large single panel, frame, or assembly of panels which have switches, buses, instruments, overcurrent and other protective devices mounted on the face or back or both. Switchboards are generally accessible from the rear as well as from the front and are not intended to be installed in cabinets. (See "panelboard.")

(125) Switches.

(a) General-use switch. A switch intended for use in general distribution and branch circuits. It is rated in amperes, and it is capable of interrupting its rated current at its rated voltage.

(b) General-use snap switch. A form of general-use switch so constructed that it can be installed in flush device boxes or on outlet box covers, or otherwise used in conjunction with wiring systems recognized by this part.

(c) Isolating switch. A switch intended for isolating an electric circuit from the source of power. It has no interrupting rating, and it is intended to be operated only after the circuit has been opened by some other means.

(d) Motor-circuit switch. A switch, rated in horsepower, capable of interrupting the maximum operating overload current of a motor of the same horsepower rating as the switch at the rated voltage.

(126) Switching devices. (Over 600 volts, nominal.) Devices designed to close and/or open one or more electric circuits. Included in this category are circuit breakers, cutouts, disconnecting (or isolating) switches, disconnecting means, interrupter switches, and oil (filled) cutouts.

(127) Transportable x-ray. X-ray equipment installed in a vehicle or that may readily be disassembled for transport in a vehicle.

(128) Utilization equipment. Utilization equipment means equipment which utilizes electric energy for mechanical, chemical, heating, lighting, or similar useful purpose.

(129) Utilization system. A utilization system is a system which provides electric power and light for employee workplaces, and includes the premises wiring system and utilization equipment.

(130) Ventilated. Provided with a means to permit circulation of air sufficient to remove an excess of heat, fumes, or vapors.

(131) Volatile flammable liquid. A flammable liquid having a flash point below 38 degrees C (100 degrees F) or whose temperature is above its flash point.

(132) Voltage (of a circuit). The greatest root-mean-square (effective) difference of potential between any two conductors of the circuit concerned.

(133) Voltage, nominal. A nominal value assigned to a circuit or system for the purpose of conveniently designating its voltage class (as 120/240, 480Y/277, 600, etc.). The actual voltage at which a circuit operates can vary from the nominal within a range that permits satisfactory operation of equipment.

(134) Voltage to ground. For grounded circuits, the voltage between the given conductor and that point or conductor of the circuit that is grounded; for undergrounded circuits, the greatest voltage between the given conductor and any other conductor of the circuit.

(135) Watertight. So constructed that moisture will not enter the enclosure.

(136) Weatherproof. So constructed or protected that exposure to the weather will not interfere with successful operation. Rainproof, raintight, or watertight equipment can fulfill the requirements for weatherproof where varying weather conditions other than wetness, such as snow, ice, dust, or temperature extremes, are not a factor.

(137) Wet location. See "location."

(138) Wireways. Wireways are sheet-metal troughs with hinged or removable covers for housing and protecting electric wires and cable and in which conductors are laid in place after the wireway has been installed as a complete system.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order 94-07), 296-24-95601, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; 91-24-017 (Order 91-07), 296-24-95601, filed 11/22/91, effective 12/24/91; 88-23-054 (Order 88-25), 296-24-95601, filed 11/14/88; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-24-95601, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 82-08-026 (Order 82-10), 296-24-95601, filed 3/30/82.]

WAC 296-24-95603 Electric utilization systems.

(1) Scope.

(a) Covered. The provisions of WAC 296-24-95603 through 296-24-985 cover electrical installations and utilization equipment installed or used within or on buildings, structures, and other premises including:

(i) Yards;

(ii) Carnivals;

(iii) Parking and other lots;

(iv) Mobile homes;

(v) Recreational vehicles;

(vi) Industrial substations under 750 volts. Chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, shall apply to industrial substations of 750 volts or more;

(vii) Conductors that connect the installations to a supply of electricity; and

(viii) Other outside conductors on the premises.

(b) Not covered. The provisions of WAC 296-24-95603 through 296-24-985 do not cover:

(i) Installations in ships, watercraft, railway rolling stock, aircraft, or automotive vehicles other than mobile homes and recreational vehicles.

(ii) Installations underground in mines.

(iii) Installations of railways for generation, transformation, transmission, or distribution of power used exclusively for operation of rolling stock or installations used exclusively for signaling and communication purposes.

(iv) Installations of communication equipment under the exclusive control of communication utilities, located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations.

(v) Installations under the exclusive control of electric utilities for the purpose of communication or metering; or for the generation, control, transformation, transmission, and distribution of electric energy located in buildings used exclusively by utilities for such purposes or located outdoors on property owned or leased by the utility or on public highways, streets, roads, etc., or outdoors by established rights on private property.

(2) Extent of application.

(a) The requirements contained in the sections listed below shall apply to all electrical installations and utilization equipment, regardless of when they were designed or installed:

Sections:

WAC 296-24-95605		(2)	Examination, installation, and use of equipment.
"	"	(3)	Splices.
"	"	(4)	Arcing parts.
"	"	(5)	Marking.
"	"	(6)	Identification of disconnection means.
"	"	(7)(b)	Guarding of live parts.
WAC 296-24-95607		(5)(a)(i)	Protection of conductors and equipment
"	"	(5)(a)(iv)	Location in or on premises.
"	"	(5)(a)(v)	Arcing or suddenly moving parts.
"	"	(6)(a)(ii)	2-Wire DC systems to be grounded.
"	"	(6)(a)(iii) and (iv)	AC systems to be grounded.
"	"	(6)(a)(v)	AC systems 50 to 1000 volts not required to be grounded.
"	"	(6)(c)	Grounding connections.
"	"	(6)(d)	Grounding path.
WAC 296-24-95607		(6)(e)(iv) (A)through(D)	Fixed equipment required to be grounded.
"	"	(6)(e)(v)	Grounding of equipment connected by cord and plug.
"	"	(6)(e)(vi)	Grounding or nonelectrical equipment.
"	"	(6)(f)(i)	Methods of grounding fixed equipment.
WAC 296-24-95609		(7)(a)(i) and (ii)	Flexible cords and cables, uses.
"	"	(7)(a)(iii)	Flexible cords and cables prohibited.
"	"	(7)(b)(ii)	Flexible cords and cables, splices.
"	"	(7)(b)(iii)	Pull at joints and terminals of flexible cords and cables.
WAC 296-24-95613			Hazardous (classified) locations.

(b) Every electric utilization system and all utilization equipment installed after March 15, 1972, and every major replacement, modification, repair, or rehabilitation, after March 15, 1972, of any part of any electric utilization system or utilization equipment installed before March 15, 1972, shall comply with the provisions of WAC 296-24-956 through 296-24-985.

Note: "Major replacements, modifications, repairs, or rehabilitations" include work similar to that involved when a new building or facility is built, a new wing is added, or an entire floor is renovated.

(c) The following provisions apply to electric utilization systems and utilization equipment installed after April 16, 1981:

WAC 296-24-95605		(8)(d)(i) and (ii)	Entrance and access to work space (over 600 volts)
WAC 296-24-95607		(5)(a)(vi)(b)	Circuit breakers operated vertically.
"	"	(5)(a)(vi)(C)	Circuit breakers used as switches.
"	"	(6)(g)(ii)	Grounding of systems of 1000 volts or more supplying portable or mobile equipment.
WAC 296-24-95609		(10)(f)(ii)(B)	Switching series capacitors over 600 volts.
WAC 296-24-95611		(3)(b)	Warning signs for elevators and escalators.
"	"	(9)	Electrically controlled irrigation machines.
"	"	(10)(e)	Ground-fault circuit interrupters for fountains.
WAC 296-24-95615		(1)(a)(ii)	Physical protection of conductors over 600 volts.
"	"	(3)(b)	Marking of Class 2 and Class 3 power supplies.
"	"	(4)	Fire protective signaling circuits.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 91-24-017 (Order 91-07), 296-24-95603, filed 11/22/91, effective 12/24/91; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-24-95603, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 82-08-026 (Order 82-10), 296-24-95603, filed 3/30/82.]

WAC 296-24-95605 General requirements.

(1) Approval. The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this section shall be acceptable only if approved.

(2) Examination, installation, and use of equipment.

(a) Examination. Electrical equipment shall be free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees. Safety of equipment shall be determined using the following considerations:

(i) Suitability for installation and use in conformity with the provisions of this part. Suitability of equipment for an identified purpose may be evidenced by listing or labeling for that identified purpose.

(ii) Mechanical strength and durability, including, for parts designed to enclose and protect other equipment, the adequacy of the protection thus provided.

(iii) Electrical insulation.

(iv) Heating effects under conditions of use.

(v) Arcing effects.

(vi) Classification by type, size, voltage, current capacity, specific use.

(vii) Other factors which contribute to the practical safeguarding of employees using or likely to come in contact with the equipment.

(b) Installation and use. Listed or labeled equipment shall be used or installed in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling.

(3) Splices. Conductors shall be spliced or joined with splicing devices suitable for the use or by brazing, welding, or soldering with a fusible metal or alloy. Soldered splices shall first be so spliced or joined as to be mechanically and electrically secure without solder and then soldered. All splices and joints and the free ends of conductors shall be covered with an insulation equivalent to that of the conductors or with an insulating device suitable for the purpose.

(4) Arcing parts. Parts of electric equipment which in ordinary operation produce arcs, sparks, flames, or molten metal shall be enclosed or separated and isolated from all combustible material.

(5) Marking. Electrical equipment may not be used unless the manufacturer's name, trademark, or other descriptive marking by which the organization responsible for the product may be identified is placed on the equipment. Other markings shall be provided giving voltage, current, wattage, or other ratings as necessary. The marking shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.

(6) Identification of disconnecting means and circuits. Each disconnecting means required by this part for motors and appliances shall be legibly marked to indicate its purpose, unless located and arranged so the purpose is evident. Each service, feeder, and branch circuit, at its disconnecting means or overcurrent device, shall be legibly marked to indicate its purpose, unless located and arranged so the purpose is evident. These markings shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.

(7) 600 volts, nominal, or less.

(a) Working space about electric equipment. Sufficient access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electric equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.

(i) Working clearances. Except as required or permitted elsewhere in this chapter, the dimension of the working space in the direction of access to live parts operating at 600 volts or less and likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while alive may not be less than indicated in Table S-1. In addition to the dimensions shown in Table S-1, workspace may not be less than 30 inches wide in front of the electric equipment. Distances shall be measured from the live parts if they are exposed, or from the enclosure front or opening if the live parts are enclosed. Concrete, brick, or tile walls are considered to be grounded. Working space is not required in back of assemblies such as dead-front switchboards or motor control centers where there are no renewable or adjustable parts such as fuses or switches on the back and where all connections are accessible from locations other than the back.

TABLE S-1--Working Clearances

¹Minimum clear distances may be 2 feet 6 inches for installations built prior to effective date of this section.

²Conditions (a), (b), (c), are as follows: (a) Exposed live parts on one side and no live or grounded parts on the other side of the working space, or exposed live parts on both sides effectively guarded by suitable wood or other insulating material. Insulated wire or insulated busbars operating at not over 300 volts are not considered live parts. (b) Exposed live parts on one side and grounded parts on the other side (c) Exposed live parts on both sides of the workspace (not guarded as provided in condition (a)) with the operator between.

(ii) Clear spaces. Working space required by this part may not be used for storage. When normally enclosed live parts are exposed for inspection or servicing, the working space, if in a passageway or general open space, shall be suitably guarded.

(iii) Access and entrance to working space. At least one entrance of sufficient area shall be provided to give access to the working space about electric equipment.

(iv) Front working space. Where there are live parts normally exposed on the front of switchboards or motor control centers, the working space in front of such equipment may not be less than 3 feet.

(v) Illumination. Illumination shall be provided for all working spaces about service equipment, switchboards, panelboards, and motor control centers installed indoors.

(vi) Headroom. The minimum headroom of working spaces about service equipment, switchboards, panelboards, or motor control centers shall be 6 feet 3 inches.

Note: As used in this section, a motor control center is an assembly of one or more enclosed sections having a common power bus and principally containing motor control units.

(b) Guarding of live parts.

(i) Except as required or permitted elsewhere in this section, live parts of electric equipment operating at 50 volts or more shall be guarded against accidental contact by approved cabinets or other forms of approved enclosures, or by any of the following means:

(A) By location in a room, vault, or similar enclosure that is accessible only to qualified persons.

(B) By suitable permanent, substantial partitions or screens so arranged that only qualified persons will have access to the space within reach of the live parts. Any openings in such partitions or screens shall be so sized and located that persons are not likely to come into accidental contact with live parts or to bring conducting objects into contact with them.

(C) By location on a suitable balcony, gallery, or platform so elevated and arranged as to exclude unqualified persons.

(D) By elevation of 8 feet or more above the floor or other working surface.

(ii) In locations where electric equipment would be exposed to physical damage, enclosures or guards shall be so arranged and of such strength as to prevent such damage.

(iii) Entrances to rooms and other guarded locations containing exposed live parts shall be marked with conspicuous warning signs forbidding unqualified persons to enter.

(8) Over 600 volts, nominal.

(a) General. Conductors and equipment used on circuits exceeding 600 volts, nominal, shall comply with all applicable provisions of subsections (1) through (7) of this section and with the following provisions which supplement or modify those requirements. The provisions of (b), (c) and (d) of this subsection do not apply to equipment on the supply side of the service conductors.

(b) Enclosure for electrical installations. Electrical installations in a vault, room, closet or in an area surrounded by a wall, screen, or fence, access to which is controlled by lock and key or other approved means, are considered to be accessible to qualified persons only. A wall, screen, or fence less than 8 feet in height is not considered to prevent access unless it has other features that provide a degree of isolation equivalent to an 8 foot fence. The entrances to all buildings, rooms, or enclosures containing exposed live parts or exposed conductors operating at over 600 volts, nominal, shall be kept locked or shall be under the observation of a qualified person at all times.

(i) Installations accessible to qualified persons only. Electrical installations having exposed live parts shall be accessible to qualified persons only and shall comply with the applicable provisions of (c) of this subsection.

(ii) Installations accessible to unqualified persons. Electrical installations that are open to unqualified persons shall be made with metal-enclosed equipment or shall be enclosed in a vault or in an area, access to which is controlled by a lock. If metal-enclosed equipment is installed so that the bottom of the enclosure is less than 8 feet above the floor, the door or cover shall be kept locked. Metal-enclosed switchgear, unit substations, transformers, pull boxes, connection boxes, and other similar associated equipment shall be marked with appropriate caution signs. If equipment is exposed to physical damage from vehicular traffic, suitable guards shall be provided to prevent such damage. Ventilating or similar openings in metal-enclosed equipment shall be designed so that foreign objects inserted through these openings will be deflected from energized parts.

(c) Workspace about equipment. Sufficient space shall be provided and maintained about electric equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment. Where energized parts are exposed, the minimum clear workspace may not be less than 6 feet 6 inches high (measured vertically from the floor or platform), or less than 3 feet wide (measured parallel to the equipment). The depth shall be as required in Table S-2. The workspace shall be adequate to permit at least a 90-degree opening of doors or hinged panels.

(i) Working space. The minimum clear working space in front of electric equipment such as switchboards, control panels, switches, circuit breakers, motor controllers, relays, and similar equipment may not be less than specified in Table S-2 unless otherwise specified in this part. Distances shall be measured from the live parts if they are exposed, or from the enclosure front or opening if the live parts are enclosed. However, working space is not required in back of equipment such as deadfront switchboards or control assemblies where there are no renewable or adjustable parts (such as fuses or switches) on the back and where all connections are accessible from locations other than the back. Where rear access is required to work on deenergized parts on the back of enclosed equipment, a minimum working space of 30 inches horizontally shall be provided.

TABLE S-2--Minimum Depth of Clear Working Space in Front of Electric Equipment

¹Minimum depth of clear working space in front of electric equipment with a nominal voltage to ground above 25,000 volts may be the same as for 25,000 volts under conditions (a), (b) and (c) for installations built prior to April 16, 1981. 

²Conditions (a), (b) and (c) are as follows: (a) Exposed live parts on one side and no live or grounded parts on the other side of the working space, or exposed live parts on both sides effectively guarded by suitable wood or other insulating materials. Insulated wire or insulated busbars operating at not over 300 volts are not considered live parts. (b) Exposed live parts on one side and grounded parts on the other side. Concrete, brick, or tile walls will be considered as grounded surfaces. (c) Exposed live parts on both sides of the workspace not guarded as provided in condition (a) with the operator between.

(ii) Illumination. Adequate illumination shall be provided for all working spaces about electric equipment. The lighting outlets shall be so arranged that persons changing lamps or making repairs on the lighting system will not be endangered by live parts or other equipment. The points of control shall be so located that persons are not likely to come in contact with any live part or moving part of the equipment while turning on the lights.

(iii) Elevation of unguarded live parts. Unguarded live parts above working space shall be maintained at elevations not less than specified in Table S-3.

TABLE S-3--Elevation of Unguarded Energized Parts Above Working Space

Note: Minimum elevation may be 8 feet 0 inches for installations built prior to April 16, 1981, if the nominal voltage between phases is in the range of 601-6600 volts.

(d) Entrance and access to workspace. (See WAC 296-24-95603 (2)(c).)

(i) At least one entrance not less than 24 inches wide and 6 feet 6 inches high shall be provided to give access to the working space about electric equipment. On switchboard and control panels exceeding 48 inches in width, there shall be one entrance at each end of such board where practicable. Where bare energized parts at any voltage or insulated energized parts above 600 volts are located adjacent to such entrance, they shall be suitably guarded.

Permanent ladders or stairways shall be provided to give safe access to the working space around electric equipment installed on platforms, balconies, mezzanine floors, or in attic or roof rooms or spaces.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order 94-07), 296-24-95605, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-24-95605, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 82-08-026 (Order 82-10), 296-24-95605, filed 3/30/82.]

WAC 296-24-95607 Wiring design and protection.

(1) Use and identification of grounded and grounding conductors.

(a) Identification of conductors. A conductor used as a grounded conductor shall be identifiable and distinguishable from all other conductors. A conductor used as an equipment grounding conductor shall be identifiable and distinguishable from all other conductors.

(b) Polarity of connections. No grounded conductor may be attached to any terminal or lead so as to reverse designated polarity.

(c) Use of grounding terminals and devices. A grounding terminal or grounding-type device on a receptacle, cord connector, or attachment plug may not be used for purposes other than grounding.

(2) Outlet devices. Outlet devices shall have an ampere rating not less than the load to be served.

(3) Outside conductors, 600 volts, nominal, or less. Subdivisions (a), (b), (c) and (d) of this subsection apply to branch circuit, feeder, and service conductors rated 600 volts, nominal, or less and run outdoors as open conductors. Subdivision (e) of this subsection applies to lamps installed under such conductors.

(a) Conductors on poles. Conductors supported on poles shall provide a horizontal climbing space not less than the following:

(i) Power conductors below communication conductors--30 inches.

(ii) Power conductors alone or above communication conductors: 300 volts or less--24 inches; more than 300 volts--30 inches.

(iii) Communication conductors below power conductors with power conductors 300 volts or less--24 inches; more than 300 volts--30 inches.

(b) Clearance from ground. Open conductors shall conform to the following minimum clearances:

(i) 10 feet--above finished grade, sidewalks, or from any platform or projection from which they might be reached.

(ii) 12 feet--over areas subject to vehicular traffic other than truck traffic.

(iii) 15 feet--over areas other than those specified in item (b)(iv) of this subsection that are subject to truck traffic.

(iv) 18 feet--over public streets, alleys, roads, and driveways.

(c) Clearance from building openings. Conductors shall have a clearance of at least 3 feet from windows, doors, porches, fire escapes, or similar locations. Conductors run above the top level of a window are considered to be out of reach from that window and, therefore, do not have to be 3 feet away.

(d) Clearance over roofs. Conductors shall have a clearance of not less than 8 feet from the highest point of roofs over which they pass, except that:

(i) Where the voltage between conductors is 300 volts or less and the roof has a slope of not less than 4 inches in 12, the clearance from the roofs shall be at least 3 feet; or

(ii) Where the voltage between conductors is 300 volts or less and the conductors do not pass over more than 4 feet of the overhang portion of the roof and they are terminated at a through-the-roof raceway or approved support, the clearance from the roofs shall be at least 18 inches.

(e) Location of outdoor lamps. Lamps for outdoor lighting shall be located below all live conductors, transformers, or other electric equipment, unless such equipment is controlled by a disconnecting means that can be locked in the open position or unless adequate clearances or other safeguards are provided for relamping operations.

(4) Services.

(a) Disconnecting means.

(i) General. Means shall be provided to disconnect all conductors in a building or other structure from the service-entrance conductors. The disconnecting means shall plainly indicate whether it is in the open or closed position and shall be installed at a readily accessible location nearest the point of entrance of the service-entrance conductors.

(ii) Simultaneous opening of poles. Each service disconnecting means shall simultaneously disconnect all ungrounded conductors.

(b) Services over 600 volts, nominal. The following additional requirements apply to services over 600 volts, nominal.

(i) Guarding. Service-entrance conductors installed as open wires shall be guarded to make them accessible only to qualified persons.

(ii) Warning signs. Signs warning of high voltage shall be posted where other than qualified employees might come in contact with live parts.

(5) Overcurrent protection. Over 600 volts, nominal. Feeders and branch circuits over 600 volts, nominal, shall have short-circuit protection.

(6) Grounding. Subdivisions (a) through (g) of this subsection contain grounding requirements for systems, circuits, and equipment.

(a) Systems to be grounded. The following systems which supply premises wiring shall be grounded:

(i) All 3-wire DC systems shall have their neutral conductor grounded.

(ii) Two-wire DC systems operating at over 50 volts through 300 volts between conductors shall be grounded unless:

(A) They supply only industrial equipment in limited areas and are equipped with a ground detector; or

(B) They are rectifier-derived from an AC system complying with items (a)(iii), (a)(iv), and (a)(v) of this subsection; or

(C) They are fire-protective signaling circuits having a maximum current of 0.030 amperes.

(iii) AC circuits of less than 50 volts shall be grounded if they are installed as overhead conductors outside of buildings or if they are supplied by transformers and the transformer primary supply system is ungrounded or exceeds 150 volts to ground.

(iv) AC systems of 50 volts to 1000 volts shall be grounded under any of the following conditions, unless exempted by item (a)(v) of this subsection:

(A) If the system can be so grounded that the maximum voltage to ground on the ungrounded conductors does not exceed 150 volts;

(B) If the system is nominally rated 480Y/277 volt, 3-phase, 4-wire in which the neutral is used as a circuit conductor;

(C) If the system is nominally rated 240/120 volt, 3-phase, 4-wire in which the midpoint of one phase is used as a circuit conductor; or

(D) If a service conductor is uninsulated.

(v) AC systems of 50 volts to 1000 volts are not required to be grounded under any of the following conditions:

(A) If the system is used exclusively to supply industrial electric furnaces for melting, refining, tempering, and the like.

(B) If the system is separately derived and is used exclusively for rectifiers supplying only adjustable speed industrial drives.

(C) If the system is separately derived and is supplied by a transformer that has a primary voltage rating less than 1000 volts, provided all of the following conditions are met:

(I) The system is used exclusively for control circuits;

(II) The conditions of maintenance and supervision assure that only qualified persons will service the installation;

(III) Continuity of control power is required; and

(IV) Ground detectors are installed on the control system.

(D) If the system is an isolated power system that supplies circuits in health care facilities.

(b) Conductors to be grounded. For AC premises wiring systems the identified conductor shall be grounded.

(c) Grounding connections.

(i) For a grounded system, a grounding electrode conductor shall be used to connect both the equipment grounding conductor and the grounded circuit conductor to the grounding electrode. Both the equipment grounding conductor and the grounding electrode conductor shall be connected to the grounded circuit conductor on the supply side of the service disconnecting means, or on the supply side of the system disconnecting means or overcurrent devices if the system is separately derived.

(ii) For an ungrounded service-supplied system, the equipment grounding conductor shall be connected to the grounding electrode conductor at the service equipment. For an ungrounded separately derived system, the equipment grounding conductor shall be connected to the grounding electrode conductor at, or ahead of, the system disconnecting means or overcurrent devices.

(iii) On extensions of existing branch circuits which do not have an equipment grounding conductor, grounding-type receptacles may be grounded to a grounded cold water pipe near the equipment.

(d) Grounding path. The path to ground from circuits, equipment, and enclosures shall be permanent and continuous.

(e) Supports, enclosures, and equipment to be grounded.

(i) Supports and enclosures for conductors. Metal cable trays, metal raceways, and metal enclosures for conductors shall be grounded, except that:

(A) Metal enclosures such as sleeves that are used to protect cable assemblies from physical damage need not be grounded; or

(B) Metal enclosures for conductors added to existing installations of open wire, knob-and-tube wiring, and nonmetallic-sheathed cable need not be grounded if all of the following conditions are met:

(I) Runs are less than 25 feet;

(II) Enclosures are free from probable contact with ground, grounded metal, metal laths, or other conductive materials; and

(III) Enclosures are guarded against employee contact.

(ii) Service equipment enclosures. Metal enclosures for service equipment shall be grounded.

(iii) Frames of ranges and clothes dryers. Frames of electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, clothes dryers, and metal outlet or junction boxes which are part of the circuit for these appliances shall be grounded.

(iv) Fixed equipment. Exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment which may become energized shall be grounded under any of the following conditions:

(A) If within 8 feet vertically or 5 feet horizontally of ground or grounded metal objects and subject to employee contact.

(B) If located in a wet or damp location and not isolated.

(C) If in electrical contact with metal.

(D) If in a hazardous (classified) location.

(E) If supplied by a metal-clad, metal-sheathed, or grounded metal raceway wiring method.

(F) If equipment operates with any terminal at over 150 volts to the ground; however, the following need not be grounded:

(I) Enclosures for switches or circuit breakers used for other than service equipment and accessible to qualified persons only;

(II) Metal frames of electrically heated appliances which are permanently and effectively insulated from ground; and

(III) The cases of distribution apparatus such as transformers and capacitors mounted on wooden poles at a height exceeding 8 feet above ground or grade level.

(v) Equipment connected by cord and plug. Under any of the conditions described in subitems (e)(v)(A) through (e)(v)(C) of this subsection, exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts of cord-connected and plug-connected equipment which may become energized shall be grounded.

(A) If in hazardous (classified) locations (see WAC 296-24-95613).

(B) If operated at over 150 volts to ground, except for guarded motors and metal frames of electrically heated appliances if the appliance frames are permanently and effectively insulated from ground.

(C) If the equipment is of the following types:

(I) Refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners;

(II) Clothes-washing, clothes-drying and dishwashing machines, sump pumps, and electrical aquarium equipment;

(III) Hand-held motor-operated tools;

(IV) Motor-operated appliances of the following types: Hedge clippers, lawn mowers, snow blowers, and wet scrubbers;

(V) Cord-connected and plug-connected appliances used in damp or wet locations or by employees standing on the ground or on metal floors or working inside of metal tanks or boilers;

(VI) Portable and mobile x-ray and associated equipment;

(VII) Tools likely to be used in wet and conductive locations; and

(VIII) Portable hand lamps. Tools likely to be used in wet and conductive locations need not be grounded if supplied through an isolating transformer with an ungrounded secondary of not over 50 volts. Listed or labeled portable tools and appliances protected by an approved system of double insulation, or its equivalent, need not be grounded. If such a system is employed, the equipment shall be distinctively marked to indicate that the tool or appliance utilizes an approved system of double insulation.

(vi) Nonelectrical equipment. The metal parts of the following nonelectrical equipment shall be grounded: Frames and tracks of electrically operated cranes; frames of nonelectrically driven elevator cars to which electric conductors are attached; hand operated metal shifting ropes or cables of electric elevators, and metal partitions, grill work, and similar metal enclosures around equipment of over 750 volts between conductors.

(f) Methods of grounding fixed equipment.

(i) Noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment, if required to be grounded by this section, shall be grounded by an equipment grounding conductor which is contained within the same raceway, cable, or cord, or runs with or encloses the circuit conductors. For DC circuits only, the equipment grounding conductor may be run separately from the circuit conductors.

(ii) Electric equipment is considered to be effectively grounded if it is secured to, and in electrical contact with, a metal rack or structure that is provided for its support and the metal rack or structure is grounded by the method specified for the noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment in item (f)(i) of this subsection. For installations made before May 30, 1982, only, electric equipment is also considered to be effectively grounded if it is secured to, and in metallic contact with, the grounded structural metal frame of a building. Metal car frames supported by metal hoisting cables attached to or running over metal sheaves or drums of grounded elevator machines are also considered to be effectively grounded.

(g) Grounding of systems and circuits of 1000 volts and over (high voltage).

(i) General. If high voltage systems are grounded, they shall comply with all applicable provisions of subdivisions (a) through (f) of this subsection as supplemented and modified by the subdivision (g) of this subsection.

(ii) Grounding of systems supplying portable or mobile equipment. (See WAC 296-24-95603 (2)(c) and 296-800-280.) Systems supplying portable or mobile high voltage equipment, other than substations installed on a temporary basis, shall comply with the following:

(A) Portable and mobile high voltage equipment shall be supplied from a system having its neutral grounded through an impedance. If a delta-connected high voltage system is used to supply the equipment, a system neutral shall be derived.

(B) Exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts of portable and mobile equipment shall be connected by an equipment grounding conductor to the point at which the system neutral impedance is grounded.

(C) Ground-fault detection and relaying shall be provided to automatically deenergize any high voltage system component which has developed a ground fault. The continuity of the equipment grounding conductor shall be continuously monitored so as to deenergize automatically the high voltage feeder to the portable equipment upon loss of continuity of the equipment grounding conductor.

(D) The grounding electrode to which the portable or mobile equipment system neutral impedance is connected shall be isolated from and separated in the ground by at least 20 feet from any other system or equipment grounding electrode, and there shall be no direct connection between the grounding electrodes, such as buried pipe, fence, etc.

Grounding of equipment. All noncurrent-carrying metal parts of portable equipment and fixed equipment including their associated fences, housings, enclosures, and supporting structures shall be grounded. However, equipment which is guarded by location and isolated from ground need not be grounded. Additionally, pole-mounted distribution apparatus at a height exceeding 8 feet above ground or grade level need not be grounded.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-24-95607, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 91-24-017 (Order 91-07), 296-24-95607, filed 11/22/91, effective 12/24/91; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-24-95607, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 82-08-026 (Order 82-10), 296-24-95607, filed 3/30/82.]

WAC 296-24-95609 Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

(1) Wiring methods. The provisions of this section do not apply to the conductors that are an integral part of factory-assembled equipment.

(a) General requirements.

(i) Electrical continuity of metal raceways and enclosures. Metal raceways, cable armor, and other metal enclosures for conductors shall be metallically joined together into a continuous electric conductor and shall be so connected to all boxes, fittings, and cabinets as to provide effective electrical continuity.

(ii) Wiring in ducts. No wiring systems of any type shall be installed in ducts used to transport dust, loose stock or flammable vapors. No wiring system of any type may be installed in any duct used for vapor removal or for ventilation of commercial-type cooking equipment, or in any shaft containing only such ducts.

(b) Temporary wiring. Temporary electrical power and lighting wiring methods may be of a class less than would be required for a permanent installation. Except as specifically modified in this section, all other requirements of this part for permanent wiring shall apply to temporary wiring installations.

(i) Uses permitted, 600 volts, nominal or less. Temporary electrical power and lighting installations 600 volts, nominal, or less may be used only:

(A) During and for remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition of buildings, structures, or equipment, and similar activities;

(B) For experimental or development work; and

(C) For a period not to exceed 90 days for Christmas decorative lighting, carnivals, and similar purposes.

(ii) Uses permitted, over 600 volts, nominal. Temporary wiring over 600 volts, nominal, may be used only during periods of tests, experiments, or emergencies.

(iii) General requirements for temporary wiring.

(A) Feeders shall originate in an approved distribution center. The conductors shall be run as multiconductor cord or cable assemblies, or, where not subject to physical damage, they may be run as open conductors on insulators not more than 10 feet apart.

(B) Branch circuits shall originate in an approved power outlet or panelboard. Conductors shall be multiconductor cord or cable assemblies or open conductors. If run as open conductors they shall be fastened at ceiling height every 10 feet. No branch-circuit conductor may be laid on the floor. Each branch circuit that supplies receptacles or fixed equipment shall contain a separate equipment grounding conductor if run as open conductors.

(C) Receptacles shall be of the grounding type. Unless installed in a complete metallic raceway, each branch circuit shall contain a separate equipment grounding conductor and all receptacles shall be electrically connected to the grounding conductor.

(D) No bare conductors nor earth returns may be used for the wiring of any temporary circuit.

(E) Suitable disconnecting switches or plug connectors shall be installed to permit the disconnection of all ungrounded conductors of each temporary circuit.

(F) Lamps for general illumination shall be protected from accidental contact or breakage. Protection shall be provided by elevation of at least 7 feet from normal working surface or by a suitable fixture or lampholder with a guard.

(G) Flexible cords and cables shall be protected from accidental damage. Sharp corners and projections shall be avoided. Where passing through doorways or other pinch points, flexible cords and cables shall be provided with protection to avoid damage.

(c) Cable trays.

(i) Uses permitted.

(A) Only the following may be installed in cable tray systems:

(I) Mineral-insulated metal-sheathed cable (Type MI);

(II) Armored cable (Type AC);

(III) Metal-clad cable (Type MC);

(IV) Power-limited tray cable (Type PLTC);

(V) Nonmetallic-sheathed cable (Type NM or NMC);

(VI) Shielded nonmetallic-sheathed cable (Type SNM);

(VII) Multiconductor service-entrance cable (Type SE or USE);

(VIII) Multiconductor underground feeder and branch-circuit cable (Type UF);

(IX) Power and control tray cable (Type TC);

(X) Other factory-assembled, multiconductor control, signal, or power cables which are specifically approved for installation in cable trays; or

(XI) Any approved conduit or raceway with its contained conductors.

(B) In industrial establishments only, where conditions of maintenance and supervision assure that only qualified persons will service the installed cable tray system, the following cables may also be installed in ladder, ventilated trough, or 4 inch ventilated channel-type cable trays:

(I) Single conductor cables which are 250 MCM or larger and are Types RHH, RHW, MV, USE, or THW, and other 250 MCM or larger single conductor cables if specifically approved for installation in cable trays. Where exposed to direct rays of the sun, cables shall be sunlight-resistant.

(II) Type MV cables, where exposed to direct rays of the sun, shall be sunlight-resistant.

(C) Cable trays in hazardous (classified) locations shall contain only the cable types permitted in such locations.

(ii) Uses not permitted. Cable tray systems may not be used in hoistways or where subjected to severe physical damage.

(d) Open wiring on insulators.

(i) Uses permitted. Open wiring on insulators is only permitted on systems of 600 volts, nominal, or less for industrial or agricultural establishments and for services.

(ii) Conductor supports. Conductors shall be rigidly supported on noncombustible, nonabsorbent insulating materials and may not contact any other objects.

(iii) Flexible nonmetallic tubing. In dry locations where not exposed to severe physical damage, conductors may be separately enclosed in flexible nonmetallic tubing. The tubing shall be in continuous lengths not exceeding 15 feet and secured to the surface by straps at intervals not exceeding 4 feet 6 inches.

(iv) Through walls, floors, wood cross members, etc. Open conductors shall be separated from contact with walls, floors, and wood cross members, or partitions through which they pass by tubes or bushings of noncombustible, nonabsorbent insulating material. If the bushing is shorter than the hole, a waterproof sleeve of nonconductive material shall be inserted in the hole and an insulating bushing slipped into the sleeve at each end in such a manner as to keep the conductors absolutely out of contact with the sleeve. Each conductor shall be carried through a separate tube or sleeve.

(v) Protection from physical damage. Conductors within 7 feet from the floor are considered exposed to physical damage. Where open conductors cross ceiling joints and wall studs and are exposed to physical damage, they shall be protected.

(2) Cabinets, boxes, and fittings.

(a) Conductors entering boxes, cabinets, or fittings. Conductors entering boxes, cabinets, or fittings shall be protected from abrasion, and openings through which conductors enter shall be effectively closed. Unused openings in cabinets, boxes, and fittings shall also be effectively closed.

(b) Covers and canopies. All pull boxes, junction boxes, and fittings shall be provided with covers approved for the purpose. If metal covers are used they shall be grounded. In completed installations each outlet box shall have a cover, faceplate, or fixture canopy. Covers of outlet boxes having holes through which flexible cord pendants pass shall be provided with bushings designed for the purpose or shall have smooth, well-rounded surfaces on which the cords may bear.

(c) Pull and junction boxes for systems over 600 volts, nominal. In addition to other requirements in this section for pull and junction boxes, the following shall apply to these boxes for systems over 600 volts, nominal:

(i) Boxes shall provide a complete enclosure for the contained conductors or cables.

(ii) Boxes shall be closed by suitable covers securely fastened in place. Underground box covers that weight over 100 pounds meet this requirement. Covers for boxes shall be permanently marked "high voltage." The marking shall be on the outside of the box cover and shall be readily visible and legible.

(3) Switches.

(a) Knife switches. Single-throw knife switches shall be so connected that the blades are dead when the switch is in the open position. Single-throw knife switches shall be so placed that gravity will not tend to close them. Single-throw knife switches approved for use in the inverted position shall be provided with a locking device that will ensure that the blades remain in the open position when so set. Double-throw knife switches may be mounted so that the throw will be either vertical or horizontal. However, if the throw is vertical a locking device shall be provided to ensure that the blades remain in the open position when so set.

(b) Faceplates for flush-mounted snap switches. Flush snap switches that are mounted in ungrounded metal boxes and located within reach of conducting floors or other conducting surfaces shall be provided with faceplates of nonconducting, noncombustible material.

(4) Switchboards and panelboards. Switchboards that have any exposed live parts shall be located in permanently dry locations and accessible only to qualified persons. Panelboards shall be mounted in cabinets, cutout boxes, or enclosures approved for the purpose and shall be dead front. However, panelboards other than the dead front externally-operable type are permitted where accessible only to qualified persons. Exposed blades of knife switches shall be dead when open.

(5) Enclosures for damp or wet locations.

(a) Cabinets, cutout boxes, fittings, boxes, and panelboard enclosures in damp or wet locations shall be installed so as to prevent moisture or water from entering and accumulating within the enclosures. In wet locations the enclosures shall be weatherproof.

(b) Switches, circuit breakers, and switchboards installed in wet locations shall be enclosed in weatherproof enclosures.

(6) Conductors for general wiring. All conductors used for general wiring shall be insulated unless otherwise permitted in this section. The conductor insulation shall be of a type that is approved for the voltage, operating temperature, and location of use. Insulated conductors shall be distinguishable by appropriate color or other suitable means as being grounded conductors, ungrounded conductors, or equipment grounding conductors.

(7) Flexible cords and cables.

(a) Use of flexible cords and cables.

(i) Flexible cords and cables shall be approved and suitable for conditions of use and location. Flexible cords and cables shall be used only for:

(A) Pendants;

(B) Wiring of fixtures;

(C) Connection of portable lamps or appliances;

(D) Elevator cables;

(E) Wiring of cranes and hoists;

(F) Connection of stationary equipment to facilitate their frequent interchange;

(G) Prevention of the transmission of noise or vibration;

(H) Appliances where the fastening means and mechanical connections are designed to permit removal for maintenance and repair; or

(I) Data processing cables approved as a part of the data processing system.

(ii) If used as permitted in subitem (a)(i)(C), (a)(i)(F) or (a)(i)(H) of this subsection, the flexible cord shall be equipped with an attachment plug and shall be energized from an approved receptacle outlet.

(iii) Unless specifically permitted in item (a)(i) of this subsection, flexible cords and cables may not be used:

(A) As a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure;

(B) Where run through holes in walls, ceilings, or floors;

(C) Where run through doorways, windows, or similar openings;

(D) Where attached to building surfaces; or

(E) Where concealed behind building walls, ceilings, or floors.

(iv) Flexible cords used in show windows and showcases shall be Type S, SO, SJ, SJO, ST, STO, SJT, SJTO, or AFS except for the wiring of chain-supported lighting fixtures and supply cords for portable lamps and other merchandise being displayed or exhibited.

(b) Identification, splices, and terminations.

(i) A conductor of a flexible cord or cable that is used as a grounded conductor or an equipment grounding conductor shall be distinguishable from other conductors. Types SJ, SJO, SJT, SJTO, S, SO, ST, and STO shall be durably marked on the surface with the type designation, size, and number of conductors.

(ii) Flexible cords shall be used only in continuous lengths without splice or tap. Hard service flexible cords No. 12 or larger may be repaired if spliced so that the splice retains the insulation, outer sheath properties, and usage characteristics of the cord being spliced.

(iii) Flexible cords shall be connected to devices and fittings so that strain relief is provided which will prevent pull from being directly transmitted to joints or terminal screws.

(8) Portable cables over 600 volts, nominal. Multiconductor portable cable for use in supplying power to portable or mobile equipment at over 600 volts, nominal, shall consist of No. 8 or larger conductors employing flexible stranding. Cables operated at over 2,000 volts shall be shielded for the purpose of confining the voltage stresses to the insulation. Grounding conductors shall be provided. Connectors for these cables shall be of a locking type with provisions to prevent their opening or closing while energized.

Strain relief shall be provided at connections and terminations. Portable cables may not be operated with splices unless the splices are of the permanent molded, vulcanized, or other approved type. Termination enclosures shall be suitably marked with a high voltage hazard warning, and terminations shall be accessible only to authorized and qualified personnel.

(9) Fixture wires.

(a) General. Fixture wires shall be approved for the voltage, temperature, and location of use. A fixture wire which is used as a grounded conductor shall be identified.

(b) Uses permitted. Fixture wires may be used:

(i) For installation in lighting fixtures and in similar equipment where enclosed or protected and not subject to bending or twisting in use; or

(ii) For connecting lighting fixtures to the branch-circuit conductors supplying the fixtures.

(c) Uses not permitted. Fixture wires may not be used as branch-circuit conductors except as permitted for Class 1 power limited circuits.

(10) Equipment for general use.

(a) Lighting fixtures, lampholders, lamps, and receptacles.

(i) Fixtures, lampholders, lamps, rosettes, and receptacles may have no live parts normally exposed to employee contact. However, rosettes and cleat-type lampholders and receptacles located at least 8 feet above the floor may have exposed parts.

(ii) Handlamps of the portable type supplied through flexible cords shall be equipped with a handle of molded composition or other material approved for the purpose, and a substantial guard shall be attached to the lampholder or the handle.

(iii) Lampholders of the screw-shell type shall be installed for use as lampholders only. Lampholders installed in wet or damp locations shall be of the weatherproof type.

(iv) Fixtures installed in wet or damp locations shall be approved for the purpose and shall be so constructed or installed that water cannot enter or accumulate in wireways, lampholders, or other electrical parts.

(b) Receptacles, cord connectors, and attachment plugs (caps).

(i) Receptacles, cord connectors, and attachment plugs shall be constructed so that no receptacle or cord connector will accept an attachment plug with a different voltage or current rating than that for which the device is intended. However, a 20-ampere T-slot receptacle or cord connector may accept a 15-ampere attachment plug of the same voltage rating.

(ii) A receptacle installed in a wet or damp location shall be suitable for the location.

(c) Appliances.

(i) Appliances, other than those in which the current-carrying parts at high temperatures are necessarily exposed, may have no live parts normally exposed to employee contact.

(ii) A means shall be provided to disconnect each appliance.

(iii) Each appliance shall be marked with its rating in volts and amperes or volts and watts.

(d) Motors. This subdivision applies to motors, motor circuits, and controllers.

(i) In sight from. If specified that one piece of equipment shall be "in sight from" another piece of equipment, one shall be visible and not more than 50 feet from the other.

(ii) Disconnecting means.

(A) A disconnecting means shall be located in sight from the controller location. However, a single disconnecting means may be located adjacent to a group of coordinated controllers mounted adjacent to each other or a multimotor continuous process machine. The controller disconnecting means for motor branch circuits over 600 volts, nominal, may be out of sight of the controller, if the controller is marked with a warning label giving the location and identification of the disconnecting means which is to be locked in the open position.

(B) The disconnecting means shall disconnect the motor and the controller from all ungrounded supply conductors and shall be so designed that no pole can be operated independently.

(C) If a motor and the driven machinery are not in sight from the controller location, the installation shall comply with one of the following conditions:

(I) The controller disconnecting means shall be capable of being locked in the open position.

(II) A manually operable switch that will disconnect the motor from its source of supply shall be placed in sight from the motor location.

(D) The disconnecting means shall plainly indicate whether it is in the open (off) or closed (on) position.

(E) The disconnecting means shall be readily accessible. If more than one disconnect is provided for the same equipment, only one need be readily accessible.

(F) An individual disconnecting means shall be provided for each motor, but a single disconnecting means may be used for a group of motors under any one of the following conditions:

(I) If a number of motors drive special parts of a single machine or piece of apparatus, such as a metal or woodworking machine, crane, or hoist;

(II) If a group of motors is under the protection of one set of branch-circuit protective devices; or

(III) If a group of motors is in a single room in sight from the location of the disconnecting means.

(iii) Motor overload, short-circuit, and ground-fault protection. Motors, motor-control apparatus, and motor branch-circuit conductors shall be protected against overheating due to motor overloads or failure to start, and against short-circuits or ground faults. These provisions shall not require overload protection that will stop a motor where a shutdown is likely to introduce additional or increased hazards, as in the case of fire pumps, or where continued operation of a motor is necessary for a safe shutdown of equipment or process and motor overload sensing devices are connected to a supervised alarm.

(iv) Protection of live parts--all voltages.

(A) Stationary motors having commutators, collectors, and brush rigging located inside of motor end brackets and not conductively connected to supply circuits operating at more than 150 volts to ground need not have such parts guarded. Exposed live parts of motors and controllers operating at 50 volts or more between terminals shall be guarded against accidental contact by any of the following:

(I) By installation in a room or enclosure that is accessible only to qualified persons;

(II) By installation on a suitable balcony, gallery, or platform, so elevated and arranged as to exclude unqualified persons; or

(III) By elevation 8 feet or more above the floor.

(B) Where live parts of motors or controllers operating at over 150 volts to ground are guarded against accidental contact only by location, and where adjustment or other attendance may be necessary during the operation of the apparatus, suitable insulating mats or platforms shall be provided so that the attendant cannot readily touch live parts unless standing on the mats or platforms.

(e) Transformers.

(i) The following items cover the installation of all transformers except the following:

(A) Current transformers;

(B) Dry-type transformers installed as a component part of other apparatus;

(C) Transformers which are an integral part of an x-ray, high frequency, or electrostatic-coating apparatus;

(D) Transformers used with Class 2 and Class 3 circuits, sign and outline lighting, electric discharge lighting, and power-limited fire-protective signaling circuits; and

(E) Liquid-filled or dry-type transformers used for research, development, or testing, where effective safeguard arrangements are provided.

(ii) The operating voltage of exposed live parts of transformer installations shall be indicated by warning signs or visible markings on the equipment or structure.

(iii) Dry-type, high fire point liquid-insulated, and askarel-insulated transformers installed indoors and rated over 35kV shall be in a vault.

(iv) If they present a fire hazard to employees, oil-insulated transformers installed indoors shall be in a vault.

(v) Combustible material, combustible buildings and parts of buildings, fire escapes, and door and window openings shall be safeguarded from fires which may originate in oil-insulated transformers attached to or adjacent to a building or combustible material.

(vi) Transformer vaults shall be constructed so as to contain fire and combustible liquids within the vault and to prevent unauthorized access. Locks and latches shall be so arranged that a vault door can be readily opened from the inside.

(vii) Any pipe or duct system foreign to the vault installation may not enter or pass through a transformer vault.

(viii) Materials may not be stored in transformer vaults.

(f) Capacitors.

(i) All capacitors, except surge capacitors or capacitors included as a component part of other apparatus, shall be provided with an automatic means of draining the stored charge after the capacitor is disconnected from its source of supply.

(ii) Capacitors rated over 600 volts, nominal, shall comply with the following additional requirements:

(A) Isolating or disconnecting switches (with no interrupting rating) shall be interlocked with the load interrupting device or shall be provided with prominently displayed caution signs to prevent switching load current.

(B) For series capacitors (see WAC 296-24-95603 (2)(c)), the proper switching shall be assured by use of at least one of the following:

(I) Mechanically sequenced isolating and bypass switches;

(II) Interlocks; or

(III) Switching procedure prominently displayed at the switching location.

Storage batteries. Provisions shall be made for sufficient diffusion and ventilation of gases from storage batteries to prevent the accumulation of explosive mixtures.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order 94-07), 296-24-95609, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-24-95609, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 82-08-026 (Order 82-10), 296-24-95609, filed 3/30/82.]

WAC 296-24 Part L Continued