NFPA 79 1

[markerman]

Hello,

I work for a OEM that produces our products in Japan. I'm looking for answers on NFPA 79 in regards to the feasibility of manufacturing our products in compliance to NFPA 79. From what I understand, this standard can be interperited differently depending on location, and auditors have to observe local codes etc. Also, I understand that the State of Ohio has implemented this Standard into some of their State Laws. Can someone provide me some feed back on these....or point me in the right direction?

 

[zappedagain]

If it helps you can view NFPA 79 on-line:

http://www.nfpa.org/onlinepreview/online_preview_document.asp?id=7907

John D

 

[amptramp]

Fundamentally NFPA standards including NFPA 79 are national in scope. The interpretation of the standard does not depend on the locale - the code is the code and the intent is the intent; however, jurisdictions may modify the standards (typically by adding regulation) at their discretion. This leads to AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) variability in "interpretation". I would not expect (and have not seen) modifications by locale to NFPA 79 as it is a machine design standard as opposed to an electrical installation standard like the NEC (NFPA 70). I have designed many machines according to NFPA 79 (and other relevant standards like UL508A) without regard to installation locale.

The NEC, though, is routinely modified by jurisdiction. For example, the NEC is typically adopted by many states as the standard for electrical installations; however, many states "modify" the NEC by amending supplemental regulation.

Here is a link to an example of amendments to the NEC by the State of North Carolina.

 

[markerman]

Thanks amptramp!

Thanks for the info and the link. I have always heard "but we already comply with the NEC". It sounds like being compliant to the NFPA 79 Standard could be very costly upfront. I've heard horror stories about having to re-wire a machine at installation....but is re-wiring a machine that drastic when 1 in 40 machines sold a customer may or may not demand a NFPA 79 type audit? This expense is usually passed on to the end user right? Or expressed necessary at time of quotation. Any info you have on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

marker

 

[markerman]

also amptramp....

I appreciate the link to the pdf. I read through it. What I don't get is that NFPA 79 now includes "industrial machines" 600W or less. So all my products are 110.....but it still falls under this NFPA 79 Standard. What I have gathered from all I have read is your best bet (as a manufacturer) is to proceed cautiously and if asked to quote a NFPA 79 compliant machine.....add the additional costs into quotation.