The NEC has grown organically since inception. Initially, it was not much more than a pamphlet. Now it is more than 900 pages in the loose-leaf version. The fact it is organized at all is testament to the hard work, dedication, and foresight of the code-making panels.
The NEC has grown over the years because it is a continuous work in progress (even between revision cycles), adapting to changes in methods, materials, and applications. Try to imagine a Rip Van Winkle NEC expert who awakens after 21 years (seven code cycles). That person would have a lot of studying to do to become an expert again, yet he would not be completely lost because the structure of the NEC would not have changed much.
Rip should start with Art. 90, which gives a good overview. However, he would probably start with Art. 100 to catch up on new definitions. It is a mistake to consider Art. 100 something you need only if you don’t understand a particular term — because it’s unlikely you know that you misunderstand it.
About the Author
Mark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.