inspection

[paul renshaw]

I currently work for a Utility Company. We are in the process of adding two new turbine generators. An outside contractor is handling all the work. This building is an addition to our current generator facility, and houses the generators, and all accessory equipment. A local inspector says this building needs to have an electrical inspection. I read article 90 to say this building is not covered by the scope of the NEC. There is an ongoing debate over this. It seems pretty cut and dry to me. Am I missing something?

 

[bphgravity]

Re: inspection

If the building is an integral part of the generating process, I agree with your determination. It sounds like an NESC issue.

However, you bring up an interesting point. I imagine the structure will still be required to meet minimum building code requirments. With that in mind, what code is enforced and who does the enforcement? Do utility companies use independent engineers or inspection agencies for this purpose? In other words, who is the ouside contractor's AHJ?

 

[paul renshaw]

Re: inspection

The sole purpose of the building is for the generators and their equipment. The town has building inspectors that will enforce the building codes, and the electrical inspections(NEC) are performed by an outside agency. I think after reviewing art. 90, the town may not require an electrical inspection on this type of building. We have done our own work without inspections in buildings that meet the criteria in art 90 before. I even called and checked with them in the past(and got their blessing) but this is a different inspector.