- Location
- Windsor, CO NEC: 2017
- Occupation
- Hospital Master Electrician
About the title? Don't ask. I once started a thread about the topic, from a different angle, and didn't see much there to clinch it one way or another.
The first thread was along the lines of "If the engineer drafts plans above code, does it fall on the AHJ to enforce the above-code standard?"
This time, I want to hear what happens if the engineer accidentally writes in a code violation.
The reason I have started this thread is that there is a broad difference of opinion about what an EC (or a JW, or an apprentice) is liable for, if they follow prints. For example, one guy I know believes that the person who literally lays hands on it bears little liability, and that the engineer and inspector bear a large responsibility. I feel differently.
Edit to add: This does have some relevance, because on occasion I get teased for trying to "re-engineer" the prints. I will notice a violation (without standing around looking for it, these things find me), and suddenly, we have a headache. If no one had noticed, who is to blame? End of edit.
There have been very good comments in the past on this, but I think they're scattered around quite a bit, I was hoping to have a end-all discussion here that addresses these issues head-on. Thanks for all replies.
The first thread was along the lines of "If the engineer drafts plans above code, does it fall on the AHJ to enforce the above-code standard?"
This time, I want to hear what happens if the engineer accidentally writes in a code violation.
- Scenario 1: Violation drafted, EC catches in field, after violation is implemented, but prior to inspection. The engineer agrees it is a violation. Does the PE accept a change order?
- Scenario 2: Violation drafted, EC catches in field prior to inspection. Engineer does not agree it is a violation. AHJ defers to engineer's judgment. 11 months later, equipment catches fire or shocks people. Who takes the blame?
- Scenario 3: Violation drafted, EC does not notice, and performs violation. Inspector does not notice either. Equipment catches fire or shocks someone in 11 months. Who takes the blame?
The reason I have started this thread is that there is a broad difference of opinion about what an EC (or a JW, or an apprentice) is liable for, if they follow prints. For example, one guy I know believes that the person who literally lays hands on it bears little liability, and that the engineer and inspector bear a large responsibility. I feel differently.
Edit to add: This does have some relevance, because on occasion I get teased for trying to "re-engineer" the prints. I will notice a violation (without standing around looking for it, these things find me), and suddenly, we have a headache. If no one had noticed, who is to blame? End of edit.
There have been very good comments in the past on this, but I think they're scattered around quite a bit, I was hoping to have a end-all discussion here that addresses these issues head-on. Thanks for all replies.
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