IEEE has released the 2017 National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), which reflects changes that have occurred in the industry and technology since the last version of the safety reference was published five years ago.

Updates to the NESC 2017 Edition reflect industry and technology changes over the past five years.The new version features revisions, reorganization, exceptions ,and added definitions for the continued protection of people during the installation, operation, and maintenance of electric supply, communication lines and associated equipment.

Among key updates to the 2017 code:

· Changes to accommodate new industry insulator ratings
· New requirements and exceptions for protecting workers with arc-rated clothing and equipment
· Revising the strength rules to require that all conductors be considered for damage due to Aeolian vibration
· Requiring a 40-inch vertical clearance from communication cables in the communication space if a luminaire is not effectively grounded.

A NESC workshop scheduled for Oct. 18-19, 2016, in San Antonio, Texas, will review changes in all sections of the code. Additional segments will address topics such as renewable energy generation and microgrids.

IEEE says it plans to offer a series of educational online courses based on the NESC 2017 Edition and introduce a mobile app for access to NESC content in the field.