CH. XIII] REGULATIONS FOR WIRING 499 



lated definite rules for wiring, insulation and the character and 

 construction of fittings, the installation of apparatus and of light- 

 ing plants, etc. This national code of rules, with all authorized 

 modifications found desirable from time to time, is published in 

 pamphlet form by the National Board of Fire Underwriters for the 

 guidance of those having electric wiring to do and apparatus to 

 install. This board also publishes a list of electric apparatus and 

 fittings which conform to this code. The two pamphlets can be 

 secured by any one interested by sending five cents in stamps to 

 cover postage, to the National Board of Fire Underwriters, 135 

 William St., New York City, N. Y. 



General precautions : In wiring or changing wires and in work- 

 ing about the arc lamp, rheostat, etc., the current should always be 

 turned off at a switch which will render all the wires and apparatus 

 to be changed in any way entirely without voltage ("dead"), so 

 that no matter what is done there is no danger of receiving a shock 

 or of short-circuiting. 



If "live wires" must be worked with, use the asbestos-patch 

 gloves, and wrap the naked wires in asbestos paper so that it will 

 be impossible to bring naked wires in contact. Remember also 

 that a concrete floor, if at all moist, makes an excellent "ground" 

 for the wires, and if a person stands on the moist floor with the 

 wires in his hands the current is liable to pass through his body to 

 the ground. It is safer to use a dry board or rubber mat on the 

 concrete floor to stand on, or to wear rubbers. 



692. Municipal regulations for wiring, etc. In addition to 

 the regulations of the National Board of Fire Underwriters, it 

 frequently happens that there are special regulations by the 

 municipality concerning the number and character of the general 

 lights in a theater, etc., and also the source of the electricity for the 

 arc lamp and for the general lights. There may also be special 

 regulations for the number and color of exit lights and the source 

 of the current for supplying them. It is necessary then to know, 

 not only the latest regulations of the National Fire Underwriters, 

 but the regulations of the city or state where the electric plant is 

 installed. 



