Colour Code

[stagert]

We are not wiring Airplanes.



I really doubt that, most of us in the field have seen white, green or bare used incorrectly and the uses of those colors has long been a code matter.

Also the NEC is not a design manual, a set color code would be just another step in a direction it should not be going.

If as you say testing is paramount what is the added safety benefit by a mandated color code?

I too have seen things in the field that make me cringe. That doesn't make them right or acceptable. If electricians were held liable, as A & P mechanics are, there would be less of these occurrences. If the AHJ had suspended or revoked the license of those making these installations we'd all be safer.
Specifications, and enforced compliance to them, save lives.
The NEC may not be a 'design manual' but it already lists many specifications we're required to comply with. That's why states 'adopt' the code.
Having worked with military and civilian specifications for 3 decades, I don't understand WHY the NEC shouldn't be heading in that direction. We are licensed professionals.
I see nothing wrong in adopting a standard wire color code nor do I see it as lessening the safety factor. Using a seat belt is not an excuse for unsafe driving.
( But don't get me started on the relevant value of 'our' safety belts versus what could be! )

 

[fin]

What About Brown, Purple, Yellow

 

[fin]

Brown Purple Yellow Anyone?

 

[brian john]

I've seen it in Houston

 

[e57]

I really dont have a choice...

SF code:

210.5(C). Add the following new section:
(C) Ungrounded Conductors. Underground conductor insulation shall be color coded as follows:
See Section 200.7 for limitations on re- identification of white or gray conductors.
(1) 120/240 volt 3-wire circuits - ?A? phase black, ?B? phase red; 120/208 volt 4-wire 3-phase wye circuits - ?A? phase black, ?B? phase red, ?C? phase blue; 120/240 volt 3-phase delta circuits - ?A? phase black, ?B? (high leg) phase purple, ?C? phase red; 277/480 volt 4-wire 3-phase wye circuits - ?A? phase brown, ?B? phase orange, ?C? phase yellow; ungrounded conductors for other voltages shall be identified by different color coding, marking tape, tagging, or other approved means.
(2) Conductors for switch legs may be ofa different color than the ungrounded circuit conductor when suitably identified at pull, junction and outlet boxes with marking tape, tagging or other equally effective means. The color green, white or grey shall not be used for identification.
(3) Conductor insulation shall contain the applicable color pigment for circuit wire #14 AWG through #10 AWG. Ungrounded conductors #8 AWG and larger and ungrounded conductors of any size in cable assemblies may be suitably identified at pull, junction and outlet boxes with marking tape, tagging or other equally effective means.
Exception: Extensions of existing non-color- coded wiring systems need not be color coded.

Same for service and feeders.