Ecmweb 26132 Pool Lift On Beach Grejak Istock Getty Images Plus 1177653336

National Electrical Code

Pools, Tubs, Fountains, and Spas ― Part 8

Nov. 5, 2019

NEC requirements for electrically powered pool lifts

Article 680, Part VIII of the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the requirements for electrically powered pool lifts. Some highlights of this section include:

These lifts don't have to comply with other parts of Art. 780 [Sec. 780.80].
Many of the requirements in Part VIII reference the low-voltage contact limit [Sec. 680.2].
Lifts must be listed, labeled, and identified for pool and spa use [Sec. 680.81]. But there are three exceptions. These exceptions allow for low voltage operation. For example, if the battery of a battery powered lift must be removed and charged at another location then its charging process does not pose a shock hazard at the pool.
Lifts connected to the premises wiring system and operating above the low-voltage contact limit must be GFCI-protected [Sec. 680.82].
Bond the lifts per Sec. 680.27(5) and (7) (metal fittings and fixed metal parts, respectively). This bonding eliminates dangerous differences in potential between these metallic objects and other metal that might come in contact with people or water.
Switching devices must be at least five feet from the inside walls of a pool unless separated by a permanent barrier [Sec. 680.84].

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.