GFS’ own resident code expert, Geoff Raifsnider, just finished putting together this update on the latest changes to the National Electrical Code coming for the 2014 edition that paint booth operators should definitely be aware of.

2014 NEC Update

This past code revision cycle, an extensive effort was put forth by the technical committees responsible for NFPA 70, National Electric Code (NEC), NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials, and NFPA 34 Standard for Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes Using Flammable or Combustible Liquids to bring the documents together with regard to electrical area classifications and sources of ignition.

Article 516 of the 2014 edition of the NEC now includes extracted text and figures from the current (2011) editions of NFPA 33 and NFPA 34. Some of the more significant changes to the NEC with regards to spray application, dipping, coating, and printing processes using flammable combustible materials are:

• Updated definition of spray booth
• Added definition of a limited finishing workstation
• For closed-top, open-face and open-front spray booths the Class I, Division 2; Class I, Zone 2; Class II, Division 2; or Zone 22 locations extend 915 mm (3 ft) outside the booth or room from any opening
• Revised language for enclosed spray booth to clarify the electrical area classification of recirculation paths in a recirculating spray booth
• Revised language for enclosed spray booths to clarify that the fresh air supply plenum in non-recirculating spray booths is an unclassified area
• Added language and figure for electrical area classification in and around a limited finishing workstation
• Updated language for illumination and added figures from NFPA 33

GFS believes these changes will continue to provide the necessary guidance and protection the industry has come to expect from the NEC. While the adoption process of any new code or standard takes time, GFS will continue to offer equipment that meets or exceeds current industry codes or standards as soon as we are aware of their issue.

While the hard copy won’t be available until October 4, an electronic version (PDF) of the 2014 edition of NFPA® 70, National Electric Code® is currently available for purchase and download from the NFPA website (www.nfpa.org). In addition, as part of its commitment to enhancing public safety, NFPA provides free access for the public to its codes and standards online. You can view all NFPA codes and standards at http://www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.

Don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any questions regarding NEC and how it applies to your spray booth or finishing equipment. We’re happy to help in any way we can!