Are you starting a sign business, or considering starting one? If so, this new book will introduce you to many of the important facets involved in running a sign shop. Getting Started in the Sign Business ...
Because it's the first one to come to mind.
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Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is an independent, nonprofit, product-safety testing and certification organization. Each year, more than 17 billion UL marks are applied to products worldwide. Although UL is the most recognized name in testing labs, it's not the only one. If you are (or intend to be) an electric signmaker, you know that you need either UL or another recognized safety and testing organization's listing labels on your electric signs because your local zoning or inspection department will ask you to comply with certain National Electrical Code® standards. If you want to find other testing and certification organizations, the State of Washington's Department of Labor and Industry Website lists numerous accredited testing labs at www.ini.gov/scs/ electrical/testlab.htm.
When finding a testing lab, remember these three things: It must meet OSHA standard (the legal requirement is that the laboratory that performs the testing is a nationally recognized testing laboratory [NRTL]); it must meet National Electrical Code® (NEC) standards (Article 600); and it must be acceptable to the local zoning or inspection agency approving your sign.
An NRTL approval, however, isn't all that is necessary. Your local sign inspectors will consider many other factors. The City of Cincinnati, for example, considers the size and shape of the sign, as well as details of how the sign is to be supported, attached, anchored, connected and braced, including foundations for poles, sign sections, etc. The City also wants information on existing and proposed materials, and design-loading specifications (wind, soil-bearing capacity). Additionally, structural calculations or stamped engineering drawings may be required.
There's more, but most of you know that.
All electrical installations -- signs, homes, commercial buildings and horse barns -- must conform to applicable NEC requirements, local ordinances and instructions provided by equipment and component manufacturers. The National Fire Protection Assn. (NFPA), Quincy, MA, publishes the NEC, which is written and compiled by electrical engineers, electrical equipment manufacturers, insurance underwriters, fire fighters and other concerned experts.
The NEC contains specific rules and regulations to help safeguard persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity. First printed in 1897, the NEC is the bible of the electrical construction industry, and anyone involved in electrical work should obtain an up-to-date copy and refer to it often. Check www.nfpa.org/nec.
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