Above and beyond code

"There are frequently good reasons for actions we take, as individuals and groups, and these reasons are occasionally  not well explained, but more is better or because that's the way it is, are not adequate justification for an action"  Tony De Leo

In the past few days, in conversation with two different local electrical contractors, they raised the issue that the our PUD has enacted rules and requirements for new electrical service connections above and beyond the current NEC codes.  In addition, they relayed that, when addressing this issue with the PUD, their comments and requests for determinations were dismissed without what they felt was appropriate review.

I am sure that there is a good reason our PUD raised the standards above those of other utilities.   However, these contractors put their lives and reputations on the line with each and every job and I cannot believe that they would do anything that would jeopardize their customer's safety or the quality of their work.  After all, their income and futures are at stake.

Maybe these standards should remain in place, or maybe they should be reviewed, but, in any event, our PUD should communicate better with the contractors and customers and be open to their thoughts and professional opinions.  I am no expert on electrical codes or procedures, but, when professionals in the field express issues, I listen.

Congratulations to the Rhody runners!!!  To me, anyone who finishes is a winner!!
Tony