EC&M Code Conversations

Is the inspector really responsible for finding what's wrong with your electrical installation? In the latest Code Conversations, Paul Abernathy sits down with Ellen Parson and explains why electrical contractors should perform their own quality-control check before calling for an inspection — and how a simple pre-inspection walkthrough can prevent failed inspections, save time, and build better relationships with inspectors.

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 17" by Mark Lamendola. This episode continues with Art. 110 of the Code and discusses the requirements for systems operating over 1,000VAC or 1500VDC (nominal).

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss 2026 NEC changes related to an expanded requirement regarding arc flash hazard marking in other than dwelling units. Russ explains the major expansion to Sec. 110.16 and what changed with the arc-flash labeling requirements. He also explains why he thinks this might be the biggest change in the 2026 NEC.

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson sits down with Paul Abernathy, EC&M’s newest NEC expert.

Paul is the executive director and founder member of the Certified Master Electrical Code Professional (CMECP) program administered by the Electrical Code Academy, Inc., where he is CEO, president, and chairman of the board. He has served the electrical industry since 1986 in a variety of capacities, from licensed electrician to owner/operator of electrical contracting and electrical design/code consulting firms. He is a National Electrical Code expert, and he currently serves on NFPA 70 Code-Making Panels 5 and 17. He will be covering the latest NEC developments in regular contributions including Inspector Intel in the print magazine, monthly podcast episodes with Ellen, and monthly videos available on the EC&M YouTube channel and website.

In this first episode, Paul discusses his background and previews what NEC content listeners and readers can look forward to. Listen now!

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 16" by Mark Lamendola. This episode continues to explore Part II of Art. 110, honing in on Sect. 110.28 and the general requirements for enclosure types.

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss 2026 NEC changes related to manufacturers’ instructions. Russ breaks down everything you need to know regarding this Code change. 

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 15" by Mark Lamendola. This episode discusses Sec. 110.27, which covers the guarding of live parts.

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss Sec. 555.9 in the 2026 NEC, which introduces a new requirement around engineered electrical designs for pier distribution systems. Russ gives an overview of what this change entails and why it was added to the 2026 Code.

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 14" by Mark Lamendola. This episode discusses the dedicated space requirements of Sec. 110.26(E).

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss 2026 NEC changes related to a new requirement related to field marking of EVSE enclosures.