Seperation of Comms & Electrical Cabling

[Aussie Sam]

Thanks to Freddy for telling me about the forums!

I am currently doing a study on the regulatory environment for customer cabling (voice, data, security, elevator/lift) in the USA.

Part of my study is looking at the safety aspects of cabling work. My questions are:

1. Is there a requirement under the NEC for a minimum seperation between electrical and communications (not network) cable?

2. Is this seperation mandatory or encouraged?

3. What level of auditing / monitoring is done to ensure minimum seperation? By who?

4. Is the separation of cable under the relevant standard adhered to by installers to ensure safety and performance?

I am assuming the NECA/BICSI 568-2001 standard covers most of this but thought I would check it with the experts!

Thankyou

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Seperation of Comms & Electrical Cabling

1. Yes, Section 800.133(A) covers this requirement.

2. These are mandatory requirements but there are many exceptions to the main rules.

3. Most compliance issues are handled by an inspection official that works for the local building department. Some states have private inspection agencies, others have no inspection requiements at all.

4. Most installers do a good job of installing power and communications as two separate systems. I hardly ever see the two systems placed in the same box or enclosure, however, I do see the two systems share a racway or get installed in very close proximity to each other.