sparkyguy545
Member
This may have been addressed elsewhere but I couldn't find it. If so, I appologize.
Other than a pure liability issue, is there any clear way to define when it become necessary to upgrade unclassified gear installed within a space which is Classified under current Codes?
Specifically, we often perform design at facilities which were constructed long before current Codes were in force that currently list these environments as Classified. Many of these areas have non-classified gear everywhere. e.g. I've found porcelain screw-base ceiling lamps with pull-chains in C1D1GD areas. When remodeling or adding improvements, our Owner's think I've lost my mind by requiring a NEMA 7 control panel next to a NEMA 1 box containing a FVNR starter (not to mention the huge difference in cost). However, that particular box is no less of a liability to explode than if it was installed on new construction. I understand the existing conditions are "grandfathered" and allowed to remain until replacement is required, but what about "new" equipment going into the same space. If it is never upgraded, the unsafe situtation will be perpetuated forever.
IMHO: Any equipment which is added OR upgraded should comply with the current Codes in force, regardless of the other equipment within the space. Eventually, all the existing (unclassified) equipment will be replaced and/or upgraded. Yes? No? I recognize that the method I've suggested will create a strange "mix" of Classified and Unclassified gear within the space for a number of years as it "evolves" to fully meet Code requirements. Is there ANY language in ANY of the NFPA docs which support either position? Opinions and comments greatly appreciated.
Other than a pure liability issue, is there any clear way to define when it become necessary to upgrade unclassified gear installed within a space which is Classified under current Codes?
Specifically, we often perform design at facilities which were constructed long before current Codes were in force that currently list these environments as Classified. Many of these areas have non-classified gear everywhere. e.g. I've found porcelain screw-base ceiling lamps with pull-chains in C1D1GD areas. When remodeling or adding improvements, our Owner's think I've lost my mind by requiring a NEMA 7 control panel next to a NEMA 1 box containing a FVNR starter (not to mention the huge difference in cost). However, that particular box is no less of a liability to explode than if it was installed on new construction. I understand the existing conditions are "grandfathered" and allowed to remain until replacement is required, but what about "new" equipment going into the same space. If it is never upgraded, the unsafe situtation will be perpetuated forever.
IMHO: Any equipment which is added OR upgraded should comply with the current Codes in force, regardless of the other equipment within the space. Eventually, all the existing (unclassified) equipment will be replaced and/or upgraded. Yes? No? I recognize that the method I've suggested will create a strange "mix" of Classified and Unclassified gear within the space for a number of years as it "evolves" to fully meet Code requirements. Is there ANY language in ANY of the NFPA docs which support either position? Opinions and comments greatly appreciated.