Question: UL code correlation database
I see that the 2006 White Book now includes an index that correlates the 2005 NEC to UL product categories, is there a UL code correlation database online that I can access?
Answer
The answer is yes; there is a UL code correlation database on UL.com. In the past several issues of the UL Question Corner, we discussed all the new features in the 2006 UL White Book that make it the companion tool to the NEC. One of those features is the Index of Product Categories Correlated to the 2005 NEC, the index is a code correlation index. UL took that data and incorporated that into an online version in a database form that correlates the 2005 NEC to UL product categories and also includes various building, mechanical and gas codes. If you are an electrical or a multi-discipline inspector, this database will be a onestop shop for determining which UL Listed products you should be looking for to determine compliance with the Code.
The UL Code Correlation Database is located on the Regulators page of UL.com by clicking on the UL Code Correlation Database button on the right hand side of the screen. The database can also be directly accessed atwww.ul.com/regulators/codelink.
The Code Correlation Database covers the following model codes: 2005 National Electrical Code (NEC), 2000, 2003 and 2006 International Building Code (IBC), UL Online Model Code Correlation Database 2003 and 2006 International Mechanical Code (IMC) and the 2003 and 2006 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). In the near future, the 2006 International Fire Code will also be added.
The database is simple to use:
1. Select the Model Code you would like to search from the drop down menu.
2. Enter the Code Section you are searching for or the UL Category Code. By entering the code section, you will see the UL product categories that apply to the specific code section. If you enter a UL category code instead of a code section, all the code sections will be shown that have been identified as pertaining to that category code.
In addition to the identification of the proper UL Product Category and Category Code, you will also be provided with the additional details, such as the identification of the standard that is used for certification and a link to the scope of the UL standard if applicable.
This database will be a big help to AHJs, plan reviewers, specifiers and designers by bringing a direct link between the Code and code-compliant product installations.
Let’s take an example of how it works. Suppose we are trying to locate transfer equipment for use in optional standby systems for NEC 702.6. First, locate the Model Code Correlation Database atwww.ul.com/regulators/codelink, then select the 2005 NEC from the Model Code pull down menu, then enter the Code Section 702.6 in the Code Section Number field and click submit.
The results show there are five UL product categories that may satisfy this Code requirement. Those are: Panelboards (QEUY), Enclosed Switches (WIAX), Automatic Transfer Switches for use in Optional Standby Systems (WPXT), Non Automatic Transfer Switches (WPYV), and Transfer Switches (WPTZ).
While the transfer switch categories may be obvious for compliance with Article 702, Panelboards (QEUY) and Enclosed Switches (WIAX) may not be so obvious. By clicking on the details link and then the Guide Information link for Panelboards (QEUY), we see that the Guide Information includes information regarding Article 702. This information states, “Some panelboards, constructed with interlocked main switching and overcurrent protective devices, have been investigated for use in optional standby systems in accordance with Article 702 of the NEC and are marked ‘Suitable for use in accordance with Article 702 of the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70,’ or, if provided within kit form, ‘Suitable for use in accordance with Article 702 of the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70 when provided with interlock kit Cat No. ____.’”
If we click on the details link for Enclosed Switches (WIAX) and then the Guide Information link we see the (WIAX) Guide Information also includes information regarding Article 702 suitability. The Guide Information states, “Some panelboards, constructed with interlocked main switching and overcurrent protective devices, have been investigated for use in optional standby systems in accordance with Article 702 of the NEC and are marked ‘Suitable for use in accordance with Article 702 of the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70,’ or, if provided within kit form, ‘Suitable for use in accordance with Article 702 of the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70 when provided with interlock kit Cat No. ____.”
The UL Model Code Correlation Database is just another tool UL provides to AHJs and installers to assist in determining code-compliant installations. If you have any questions on the UL Model Code Correlation Database, please contact Bob Eugene at Robert.Eugene@us.ul.com.
