Mike Holt Enterprises Understanding the NEC

Keeping up with the requirements of the Code should be the goal of everyone involved in electrical safety. Following is what I feel is an important rule in the 2020 NEC®, complete with graphics and a video. I encourage you to use it as a training resource for your organization, and share it with your colleagues.

Marinas, Boatyards and Docking Facilities - Bonding of Noncurrent-Carrying Metal Parts [555.13]

The content below is extracted from Mike Holt's Changes to the National Electrical Code textbook, based on the 2020 NEC.

Many of the changes to the National Electrical Code that occur during the revision cycle are pretty mundane and not too significant. Often the change in a rule is an edit for clarity or a terminology change, and sometimes an existing rule is relocated from one section of the Code to another. Regardless of the type, these changes often highlight the significance and implications of that rule. Such is the case of a rule relocated to Article 555–Marinas, Boatyards, Floating Buildings, Docking Facilities, which requires the bonding of all noncurrent-carrying metal parts that are in contact with the water [555.13].

You may read this rule and think yourself, “OK, no big deal” and keep it moving, but do you really understand the intent of and how to be in compliance with this rule? To be sure, read the rule (twice even) and watch this video as our expert panel hones down on not only the intent of the rule, but also, what it might take to ensure a compliant electrical installation.

Click here or on the thumbnail to the left to view or download the PDF of this rule to follow as you watch the video. (1 page, 53 KB)
Click on the image above to watch the video

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We'd love to hear from you about this series, and the ways you're using it. Send us your comments and feedback by clicking on Post a Comment below. Look out for the next part in this series a month from now, and please share with your colleagues.

This content is extracted from Mike Holt's Changes to the National Electrical Code, based on the 2020 NEC Program.

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Mike Holt Enterprises, 3604 Parkway Boulevard, Ste 3, Leesburg, FL 34748
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Comments

  • I think it is wrong to connect the #8awg Bond wire to the GROUND BUS in the panelboard. Providing a low-impedance path from metal non-current carrying objects (ladders, boat lifts) in the water GREAT idea. But to have the possible introduction of stray currents that do exist on the GEC (caused by an open or poor connection on the service neutral) might this #8awg bonding connection become a better path, thru the water, for return current? The Art. 680.26 (A), (B) states do not connect this wire to the panel or service.

    FREDERICK STUMPF  November 25 2020, 1:34 pm EST
    Reply to this comment

    • Reply from: Mike Holt   November 25 2020, 2:06 pm EST
    Excellent point!
    Reply to Mike Holt

  • Great video and description of the unintended consequences! I cringe to think about the number of docks parts and metal ladders that are or may become more likely to electrocute swimmers - because of the NEC required bonding to the electrical system. The criteria needs to evolve quickly to either (low voltage or no voltage) at these floating time bombs. The cost for a 12VDC lift motor is approximately identical to the cost of a 120Vac lift motor - so there's no excuse other than ignorance.

    Doug Dorr  November 24 2020, 2:50 pm EST
    Reply to this comment

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