About the NEC®

NFPA 70®, National Electrical Code® (NEC®), sets the foundation for electrical safety in residential, commercial, and industrial occupancies around the world. It is consistently reviewed and updated with input from active professionals in the field to help you stay ahead of the curve and, more importantly, safer on the job.

The 2023 edition features significant alterations to modernize the code to present-day standards, including updated requirements for all electrical systems—both residential and commercial—and new articles for never-before covered systems and equipment, including Class 4 fault-managed circuits.

NEC® enforcement and use

Learn more about NEC® usage requirements, usage status by location, and the support of the Electrical Code Coalition, which works to increase focus and emphasis on electrical safety for people and property through direct and full usage and uniform enforcement of the latest edition of the NEC.

Electrical codes and standards

The NFPA® family of codes and standards that deal with electrical issues are as dynamic as the subjects they address—including NFPA 70®, National Electrical Code® (NEC®), NFPA 70B, Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, and NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®. These extensive documents reflect changing industry needs and evolving technologies, and are supported by research and development, as well as the practical experience and input of your peers in the field. This commitment to keeping you current also manifests in brand new products like NFPA 78, Guide on Electrical Inspections, which covers the minimum criteria to aid in organizing and conducting electrical inspections, as well as NFPA 1078, Standard for Electrical Inspector Professional Qualifications, which identifies minimum job performance requirements for electrical inspectors.

Electrical certification programs

Today’s electrical employees and contractors are increasingly required to show evidence of their professional competency. Certifications leave no question as to your skill and knowledge in this quickly and constantly changing field, and help you to stand out in a crowded job market among strong competition. NFPA® offers a family of certifications in support of our electrical standards, such as NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®; NFPA 110, Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems; and NFPA 111, Standard on Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems. Whatever your area of specialty in the electrical field, NFPA certifications can help you prove your knowledge, proficiency, and professionalism. To learn more about group certification programs for your organization, call 617-984-7509 or email us.

Electrical news and resources

To do your job with the highest level of skill and confidence, you need the latest electrical industry news and information. Keep up with these valuable NFPA® resources, including our blog feed, monthly newsletter, research reports, and members-only Electrical Section.