MODULE 4 Electrical Codes and Fire Codes of The PH

Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY

Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
INSTRUCTIONAL MODULE
IM No.:BLDG1-1st-2021-2022
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Bayombong Campus
DEGREE PROGRAM BSCE COURSE NO. BLDG 1

SPECIALIZATION COURSE TITLE BUILDING SYSTEM DESIGN
YEAR LEVEL BSCE 3 TIME FRAME 5 HR WK NO. 4 IM NO. 4
I. UNIT TITLE/CHAPTER TITLE

1. Codes and Regulations
II. LESSON TITLE

Philippine Electrical Code (PEC)
Fire Code of the Philippines
III. LESSON OVERVIEW

The General Requirements of the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) and Fire Code of the
Philippines
IV. DESIRED LEARNING OUTCOMES

Identify and understand the general requirements of the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) and Fire
Code of the Philippines
V. LESSON CONTENT
A. PHILIPPINE ELECTRICAL CODE ( P E C )
PEC I - Electrical Installation inside buildings.
PEC II - Electrical Installation outside buildings.
- PEC consists of rules which are intended to make use of electricity safe for person and property.
TWO (2) CATEGORIES OF PEC RULES
1. Mandatory Rules - characterized by the use of the word “SHALL’’.
2. Advisory Rules - characterized by the use of the word “SHOULD” or are stated as recommendations
of that which is advised but not required.
OBJECTIVES
a) Safe Use of Electricity - to establish basic materials quality and electrical work standards for the
safe use of electricity for light, heat, power, communications, signaling and for other purposes.
b) Adequacy - Strict compliance with the provisions of this Code will ensure safety in electrical
installation and construction, but not necessarily efficient, convenient, or adequate for good service or
future expansion of electrical use.
 The use of PEC is mandated by R.A. 7920 (formerly R.A. 184 ), also known as the New Electrical
Engineering Law. Likewise, referral codes are also used which are mandated by their
corresponding laws.
1. P.D. 1096 - National Building Code
2. P.D. 1185 - Fire Code of the Philippines
3. Structural Code
“In accordance with Section 185, Fair Use of Copyrighted Work of Republic Act 8293, the copyrighted works included in this material may be reproduced for educational purposes
only and not for commercial distribution,”
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 R.A. 7920 - is an act providing for a more responsive and comprehensive regulation for the
practice, licensing and registration of electrical engineers and electricians.
Government Authorities who implement PEC
1. Office of the Building Official
2. Office of the City Electrician ( City Electrical Supervising Engineer )
3. Office of the Municipal Electrician ( Municipal Electrical Supervising Engineer)
4. Regional Office of the DOLE
SCOPE OF THE PEC

- PEC covers the electric conductors including optical fiber cable and installed within or on, to or from:
1. Public and private buildings
2. Electrical generating plants
3. Temporary and permanent substations
4. Industrial plants
5. Transformer stations
6. Railway switchyards
7. Yards, carnival, parking, etc.
8. Watercraft
9. Dockyards
10. Airfields
11. Quarries and mines
12. Mobile homes, travel trailers and recreational vehicles
13. Offshore facilities
14. Other premises which requires electrical installation except to those which are done in;
a) Aircraft
b) motor vehicles
c) railway rolling stocks
PERMITS AND INSPECTION CERTIFICATES
A permit is required before undertaking any electrical installation.
An inspection is also required after which certificate of final electrical inspection (CFEI) is issued by the
authority.
EXCEPTIONS
A permit is not required for;
1. The installation of electrical portable equipment rated not more than 1,200 VA.
2. Reconnection of disconnected service due to non-payment of electric bill or change of occupants for
a period of one year.
Requirements for Electrical Permit
a) An application form (DPWH form No. 77-001-E) shall be accomplished, signed and submitted by a
duly registered Professional Electrical Engineer. However, if the installation does not exceed 20 lighting
and/or receptacle outlets or 4000 volt-amperes, 230 volts, the application may be prepared, signed and
submitted by a duly registered electrical engineer or master electrician.
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b) The application shall include additionally, the name and signature and seal of the electrical practitioner
who will take charge of the installations as well as the signature of the owner or his authorized
representative.
c) Five (5) sets of plans and specifications bearing the signature and seal of the responsible Professional
Electrical Engineer shall be submitted together with the application. However, if the installation does not
exceed 20 lighting and or receptacle outlets or 4,000 VA, 230 V; five (5) sets of sketches and bill of
materials may be prepared signed and submitted by the responsible Registered Electrical Engineer or
Master Electrician. According to P.D. 1096, no plans is required for building made of indigenous materials
or which cost is not more than P15, 000.00.
ELECTRIC CIRCUITS IN BUILDING
- SERVICES
No. of Service
- A building or other structure served shall be supplied by only one service.
EXCEPTIONS
1. for fire pump where a separate service is required.
2. for emergency electrical system where a separate service is required.
3. Multiple-Occupancy building
4. Capacity Requirements. Two or more services shall be permitted:
a) Where the capacity requirements are in excess of 2,000 amperes at a supply voltage of 600 volts
or less; or
b) Where the load requirements of a single-phase installation are greater than the serving agency
normally supplies through one service; or
5. Building of Large Area (10,000 m2 or more Total Area).
6. For different voltage characteristics, such as for different voltage, frequencies, or phases, or for
different uses, such as for different rate schedules.
THE OVERHEAD SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTOR

- This is the overhead service conductor from the last pole or other aerial support to and including the
splices if any, connecting the service entrance conductors at the building or other structure.
SIZE AND RATING:
a) General. Service drop shall have sufficient ampacity to carry the load without a temperature
rise detrimental to the covering or insulation of the conductors and shall have adequate
mechanical strength.
b) Minimum Size. The conductors shall not be smaller than 8 mm2 copper, 14 mm2 aluminum
or copper-clad aluminum.
CLEARANCES:
a) Above Roofs. Conductors shall have a vertical clearance of not less than 2,500 mm from the roof
surface.
b) Vertical Clearance from Ground.
1. 3,100 mm - at the electric service entrance to buildings, or at the drip loop of the building
electric entrance, or above areas or sidewalks
2. 3,700 mm - for those areas listed in the 4,600 mm classification when the voltage is limited to
600 volts to ground.
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3. 4,600 mm - over residential property and driveways, and those commercial areas not subject
to truck traffic.
4. 5,500 mm - over public streets, alleys, roads, parking areas subject to truck traffic, driveways
on other than residential property, and other land transverse by vehicles such as cultivated,
grazing, forest, and orchard.
UNDERGROUND SERVICE-LATERAL CONDUCTOR

- This is the underground service conductor between the street main, including any risers at a pole or
other structure or from transformers, and the first point of any connection to the service-entrance
conductors in a terminal box or meter or other enclosure with adequate space, inside or outside the
building wall.
INSULATION
- Service-lateral conductor shall withstand exposure to atmospheric and other conditions of use without
detrimental leakage of current.
EXCEPTIONS
A grounded conductor shall be permitted to be uninsulated as follows:
a) Bare copper used in a raceway.
b) Bare copper for direct burial where bare copper is judged to be suitable for the soil conditions.
c) Bare copper for direct burial without regard to soil conditions where part of cable assembly identified
for underground use.
d) Aluminum or copper-clad aluminum without insulation or covering where part of a cable assembly
identified for underground use in a raceway or for direct burial.
SIZE AND RATING

a) General. Service lateral conductors shall have sufficient ampacity to carry the current for the load and
shall have adequate mechanical strength.
b) Minimum Size. The conductors shall not be smaller than 5.5 mm2copper or 8.0 mm2 aluminum or
copper-clad aluminum.Where two to six service disconnecting means in separate enclosures supply
separate loads from one service drop or lateral, one set of service entrance conductors shall be
permitted to supply each or several such service equipment enclosures.
EXCEPTION:
- For installations to supply only limited loads of a single branch circuit such as small polyphaser power,
controlled water heaters and the like, they shall not be smaller than 3.5 mm2 copper or 5.0 mm2aluminum
SERVICE ENTRANCE
- Service is defined as the portion of the supply which extends from the street main duct or transformer
to the service switch or switchboard of the building supply.
-it is the conductor and equipment for delivering energy from the electricity supply system to the wiring
system of the premises served.
TYPES:
1. Overhead Service Entrance
The most common type of service entrance employed by the power companies supplying electricity
which is either a 2, 3 or 4-wire connection. Generally, the overhead service cable between the building
property line and the supply point is supplied by electric company to a limit of 30 meters.
2. The Underground Service Entrance

The underground service entrance consists of a raceway conduit extending from the building to the
property line where it is tapped to the main. The type of cable recommended is the underground
service entrance cable commonly referred to as USE.
SERVICE - ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS
- No. of Service-Entrance Conductor Sets

Each service drop or lateral shall supply only one set of service-entrance conductors.
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EXCEPTIONS:
1. Buildings with more than one occupancy.
2. Where two to six service disconnecting means in a separate enclosures are grouped at one
location and supply separate loads from one service drop or lateral.
SIZE AND RATING:

- Service entrance conductors shall be of sufficient size to carry the computed loads.
Ungrounded conductors shall not be smaller than:
1. 100 A ---- For one family dwelling with six or more 2-wire branch circuits.
2. 60 A ---- For one family dwelling with an initial computed load of 10 kVA above.
3. 40 A ---- For other loads.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. For loads consisting of not more than 2 - wire branch circuits, 5.5 mm2copper or 8.0 mm2 aluminum
2. By special permission, for loads limited by demand or by the source of supply, 5.5 mm2 copper or
8.0 mm2 aluminum or copper-clad aluminum.
3. For limited loads of single branch circuit, 3.5 mm2 copper or 5.5 mm2aluminum or copper-clad
aluminum.
INSTALLATION OF SERVICE CONDUCTORS

Service entrance conductors shall be installed in accordance with the applicable requirements of this
Code covering the type of wiring method used and limited to the following methods:
1. Open-wiring on insulators
2. Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)
3. Intermediate Metallic Tubing (IMT)
4. Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)
5. Service-Entrance Cables
6. Wire ways
7. Busways
8. Auxiliary gutters
9. Rigid Non-Metallic Conduit (RNMC)
10. Cable Bus
11. Mineral-Insulated Metal-Sheeted Cable
12. Type MC Cables
PROTECTION:
Service entrance conductors subjected to physical damage shall be protected in any of the following
ways or methods:
1. By RMC
2. By IMC
3. By RNMC suitable for the location
4. By EMT
5. Type MC cable or other approved means
THE SERVICE EQUIPMENT-DISCONNECTING MEANS

GENERAL:
The service-disconnecting means shall be provided to disconnect all conductors in a building or other
structures from the service-entrance conductor.
NUMBER OF DISCONNECTING MEANS:

The service disconnecting means for each set or each subset of service entrance conductor shall consist
of not more than six switches or six circuit breakers mounted in a single enclosure, or in a switchboard.
LOCATION:
The service disconnecting means shall be installed either inside or outside the building or other structure
at a readily accessible location nearest the point of entrance of the service entrance conductor
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RATING:
The service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than the load to be carried. In no case
shall the rating be lower than specified through:
1. One circuit installation -- The service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than 15
amperes.
2. Two circuit installation -- The service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than 30
amperes.
3. One family dwelling -- The service disconnecting means shall have a rating of:
60 A -- where the initial computed loads is 10 kVA or more
100 A -- where the initial installations consist of six or more 2-wire branch circuit.
4. Others -- For all other installations, the service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not
less than 40 amperes.
NOTES:
The service disconnecting means shall simultaneously disconnect all ungrounded conductors and shall
be capable of being closed on a fault equal to or greater than the maximum available short-circuit current.
Service entrance conductor shall have a short-circuit protective device in each ungrounded conductors.
Fuses shall have an Interrupting Rating no less than the maximum available short circuit current in the
circuit at their supply terminals.
Circuit breakers shall be free to open in case the circuit is closed on an overload. Circuit breakers shall
have an interrupting rating not less than the maximum available short-circuit current at its supply
terminals.
FEEDERS AND MAIN

Essential considerations being adapted or followed.
1. On large installation, one feeder is provided for each floor.
2. In small installations, one or two feeders is satisfactory.
3. Feeder for motor must be separate and independent from the light circuits.
4. Feeders requiring more than 50 mm diameter conduit should not be used.
5. Feeders should be subdivided if there are several bends or offsets because a 50 mm conduit is the
largest that could be economically used.
6. Feeders radiating from the distributing panel should be provided each with a properly rated switch
and circuit breaker.
7. Good practice dictates that feeders and main shall be installed inside a conduit pipe as it carries high
voltage that should be well protected.
7 REQUIRED PARTS OF A STANDARD ELECTRICAL PLAN

A. GENERAL NOTES / SPECIFICATION
Specification written on electrical plan should indicate:
1. That the design is done in accordance with the P.E.C. and all electrical works shall comply with the
provisions of all authorities having jurisdiction on the use of electrical power.
2. The nature of the service including voltage, phase and frequency.
3. The type of approved wiring to use in installing service entrance, feeders, sub-feeders, branch circuit
conductors, remote control system, fire protection, signal and communication system.
4. All other aspects and details that the designer and the owner would want to be done in the actual
construction of the project.
EXAMPLE
1. Works here under shall comply with the latest edition of the P.E.C, the national building code,
municipal or city ordinances, office of the municipal or city electrician, & Meralco.
2. Type of services shall be 230 volts, 1 phase, 2 wire system, 60 hertz and there shall be only one
service drop to the building.
3. Method of wiring shall be EMT both exposed and embedded work with proper fitting and supports. In
cases where concealed conduits wiring is impracticable to use, metal moulding may be applied.
4. All materials and equipment shall be new and approved type for both location and purpose intended.
5. All lighting and convenience outlet circuit homeruns shall be wired with no less than 2 sq. mm and
3.5 sq. mm respectively, unless otherwise indicated on the plan.
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6. Lighting and power panel board shall be circuit breaker type surface or flushed mounted or as
indicated on the plan; door shall be provided with locked and milled key, a line circuit directory card
and holder shall be provided in interface or door.
7. Whenever required and necessary, full boxes and junction boxes of proper sizes shall be installed at
convenient and inconspicuous locations although such boxes are not shown on the plans nor
mentioned
1. in the specification.
8. All outdoor installation shall be weather proof type.
9. All electrical work shall be done under the direct and immediate supervision of a duly licensed
Electrical Engineer.
B. LEGEND AND SYMBOLS

The legend or symbols shall show symbols or configurations and figures of devices and equipment used.
Standard Electrical symbols can be obtained from the appendix - a of the Philippine Electrical
Code.
C. LOCATION PLAN
Location or site plan with proposed structures and owner’s land drawn to appropriate metric scale shall
show:
1. Bordering areas showing public or well-known streets.
2. Location of service drop, service equipment and nearest pole of the utility company furnishing
electrical energy.
3. Clearance of the path or run of service drops and service structure wires to adjacent existing or
proposed structures.
D. RISER DIAGRAM
The riser diagram consists of the schematic diagram of service entrance, feeders and branch circuits.
This indicates:
1. The number of branch circuits, the size of conductors, size of conduit and protection for each branch
circuit.
2. The sizes of feeders, its conduit and feeder’s protection.
3. The type of service, size of service entrance conductor, conduits and main protective device.
E. TITLE BLOCK:
Title block or nameplate of plans and drawings shall be a standard strip of 40 mm high at the bottom of
each sheet.
It shall contain the following:
1. Name and location of proposed installation, project, or watercraft;
2. Name, signature and address of owner/manager/operator;
3. Title of sheet and sheet number;
4. Scale used;
5. Name, signature and dry seal of professional electrical engineer together with registration number,
- Professional Tax Receipt (PTR) and Tax Identification Number (TIN);
6. Initial of draftsman; and
7. Date drawn or revised.
F. ELECTRICAL LIGHTING AND POWER LAYOUT

Electrical layout for each floor of the building shall indicate the location of:
1. Location of lighting outlets.
2. Location of convenience outlets.
3. Location of switches with their corresponding symbols.
4. Location of outlets for air conditioning units.
5. Location of telephone, intercom and master antenna television outlets.
6. Location of service equipment and/or disconnecting means.
7. Location of service kilowatt-hour meter.
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G. SCHEDULE OF LOADS AND COMPUTATIONS:
Schedule of loads in tabulated form shall indicate:
A. MOTOR LOADS:
1. Motor as numbered or identified in power layout.
2. Type of motor
3. HP/kW/kVA rating
4. Voltage rating
5. Full load current rating
6. Frequency rating
7. Number of phases
B. LIGHTING AND POWER LOADS:

1. Panel as numbered in the riser diagram.
2. Circuit designation number.
3. Number and lightning outlets in each circuits.
4. Number of switches in each circuit.
5. Number of convenience outlet
6. Voltage circuit
7. Fuse rating or trip rating of circuit protective device.
C. OTHER LOADS
1. Designation number on plan
2. Description loads
3. Classification of service duty
4. Rating in kilovolt ampere (KVA) or kilowatt (KW)
5. Phase loading indicating full load line current
6. Voltage rating
DESIGN COMPUTATION
Or design analysis where necessary shall be included on the drawings or may be submitted on separate
sheets of uniform size paper, shall allow:
1. Illumination design computations and tabulated lighting levels in lux critical areas in institutional,
1. Industrial recreational & commercial building.
2. Feed lines and protective devices of motors, electrical equipment and appliances indicating
types and ratings.
3. Sizes of branch circuit wires, Feeders and bus bars including protective devices.
4. Size and type of service entrance wires, race ways and equipment.
5. Setting / ratings of over current devices.
GROUNDING PROTECTION
A ground is an electrical connection which may either be intentional or accidental between an electric
circuit or equipment and the earth, or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth. The
purpose of grounding a circuit is to fix permanently a zero voltage point in the system. The grounded line
of a circuit should not be broken nor fused to maintain a solid and uninterrupted connection to the ground.
Grounding could be accomplished in the following manner:

1. Connection to a buried cold water main.
2. Connection to a rod or group of rods.
3. Connection to a buried ground plate.
THE PANELBOARD
A panel board is a single panel or group of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single
panel. This includes buses, automatic overcurrent protective devices, and with or without switches for the
control of light, heat or power circuit. It is designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed in or
against a wall or partition and accessible only from the front.
Principles applied in installing panel board
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1. The approach should be accessible and convenient.
2. The panel board must be centrally located to shorten the home wiring runs.
3. It must be installed near the load center. As in most cases, panel board is installed near the kitchen
and the laundry where heavy loads are expected.
MAIN- is the feeder interior wiring extending from service switch, generator bus, or converter bus to the
main distribution.
BRANCH CIRCUIT- is defined as the circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting
the circuit and the outlets. This means that the branch circuit is only the wiring between the circuit
overcurrent protection device such as fuses or circuit breaker and the outlets. However, it is a common
knowledge and practice that the branch circuit comprises the entire circuit including the outlet receptacles
and other wiring devices.
PROTECTION OF THE BRANCH CIRCUIT

Any current in excess of the rated current capacity of the equipment or the rated ampacity of the
conductor is called overcurrent.
The causes of overcurrent are:

1. Overload in the equipment conductors.
2. Short circuit or ground fault
As per PEC requirement, conductors shall be protected against overcurrent in accordance with their
ampacities (Art. 4.5.1.3)
Ampacity - is the current-carrying capacity of an electric conductor.
THE CIRCUIT BREAKER AND THE FUSE

A circuit breaker is an overcurrent protective device also designed to function as a switch. It is equipped
with an automatic tripping device to protect the branch circuit from overload and ground fault.
A fuse is also an overcurrent protective device with a circuit opening fusible element which opens when
there is an overcurrent in the circuit. It is considered as the simplest and the most common circuit
protective device used into the house wiring connection.
Advantages of circuit breaker over a fuse

1. The circuit breaker acts as a switch aside from its being an overcurrent device.
2. When there is an overcurrent, the circuit breaker trips automatically and after correcting the fault, it is
ready to be switched on again, unlike the fuse which has to be discarded and replaced after it is
busted.
Advantages of fuse over a circuit breaker

1. One of its major advantage is its reliability and stability. It can stay on its position for years and act
when called on to act as designed, unlike the circuit breaker which requires proper maintenance and
periodic testing to keep it into a tip-top condition.
2. The cost of a fuse is less than that of a circuit breaker.
Standard Ampere Ratings of Fuses and Inverse time circuit breakers

15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 45, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 125, 150, 200, 225, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600,
700, 800, 1000, 1200, 1600, 2000, 2500, 3000, 4000, 5000 and 6000
Fuses, circuit breakers or combinations shall not be connected in parallel.
Exception:
Circuit breakers or fuses, factory assembled in parallel, and approved as a unit.
Position of Knife Switches
a) Single-throw Knife Switches. Single-throw knife switches shall be so placed that gravity will
not tend to close them. Single-throw knife switches, approved for use in the inverted position,
shall be provided with a locking device that will ensure that the blades remain in the open
position when so set.
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b) Double-throw Knife Switches. Double-throw knife switches shall be permitted to be mounted
so that the throw will be either vertical or horizontal. Where the throw is vertical, a locking
device shall be provided to hold the blades in the open position when so set.
RECEPTACLES AND WIRING DEVICES

ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS AND INSULATORS
Electrical Conductors are substances that offer a very low resistance to current flow.
Insulators are substances that offer a very high resistance to current flow.
List of some good electrical conductors

1. Silver
2. Copper
3. Aluminum
4. Nickel
5. Brass
6. Zinc
7. Platinum
8. Iron
9. Tin
10. Lead
List of some insulating materials

1. Rubber
2. Porcelain
3. Varnish
4. Slate
5. Glass
6. Mica
7. Latex
8. Asbestos
9. Thermoplastics
10. Paper
11. Oils
12. Wax
13. Dry air
WIRES AND CABLES

Wires are those electrical conductors which are 8 mm2 (AWG no. 8) or smaller, while cables are those
larger than the wires. They are either solid or stranded.
Stranded wire - consists of a group of wires twisted to form metallic string. The total circular-mil area of
a stranded wire is found by multiplying the circular mil area of each strand by the total number of strand.
Cord is the term given to an insulated stranded wire.
CIRCULAR MIL. This is the unit of cross section in the American wire gauge. The term “mil” means one-
thousandth of an inch (0.001 in.). It is the area of a circular wire having a diameter of one mil. To find the
number of circular mils in a circle of a given diameter, we have to square the number of mils in the
diameter.
Area in circular mil = (diameter in mils) 2

1 inch = 1,000 mils
MCM = 1,000 circular mils
SQUARE MIL. It is the area of a square having its side equal to 1 mil.
Square mil = (sides) 2 = (1 mil) 2 = (0.001 in.)2 = 1 x 10-6 in.2
Square mil = 0.7854 x circular mils
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CONDUCTOR AREAS:
CONVERSION FACTOR
Square inch = square mil x 0.000001
Square mil = square inch x 1,000,000
Square mil = circular mils x 0.7854
Circular mil = square mils x 1.273
Millimeter = inches x 25.4
Square mm = circular mils x 0.0005067
COMMONLY USED PREFIXES

PREFIX UNIT SYMBOL
deci 1 x 10-2 d milli 1 x 10-3 m
micro 1 x 10-6 m
nano 1 x 10-9 n
pico 1 x 10-12 p
deka 1 x 101 da
hecto 1 x 102 h
kilo 1 x 103 k
Mega 1 x 106 M
Giga 1 x 109 G
COMMONLY USED ENGLISH-METRIC EQUIVALENTS

English to Metric Metric to English
LENGTH
1 in = 25.4 mm 1 mm = 0.0394 in
1 in = 2.54 cm 1 cm = 0.394 in
1 ft = 304.8 mm 1 cm = 0.033 ft
1 ft = 30.48 cm 1 m = 39.37 in
1 ft = 0.305 m 1 m = 3.28 ft
1 yd = 0.915 m 1 km = 3280.83 ft
1 mi = 1609.34 m 1 km = 0.621 mi
1 mi = 1.609 km
AREA
1 sq in = 645.16 sq mm 1 sq cm =0.155 sq in
1 sq in = 6.45 sq cm 1 sq cm = 0.0011 sq ft
1 sq ft = 929.03 sq cm 1 sq m = 10.764 sq ft
1 sq ft = 0.093 sq m 1 sq m = 1.2 sq yd
DIFFERENT TYPES OF CABLES

1. Armored Cable. This type of cable, the type AC is a fabricated assembly of insulated conductors
enclosed in flexible metal sheath. Armored cable is used in both exposed and concealed work.
2. Metal Clad Cable. Cable of the type MC is a factory assembled cable of one or more conductors,
each individually insulated and enclosed in a metallic sheath of interlocking tape, or a smooth or
corrugated tube. This type is used specifically for services, feeders, branch circuits, either exposed
or concealed and for indoor or outdoor work.
3. Mineral Insulated Cable. This type of cable, type MI, is a factory assembly of one or more conductors
insulated with a highly compressed refractory mineral insulation and enclosed in liquid-tight and gas-
tight continuous copper sheath. The type MI is used in dry, wet or continuously moist location as
service, feeders or branch circuit.
4. Nonmetallic Sheathed Cable. Types NM and NMC are factory assembled two or more insulated
conductors having a moisture-resistant outer sheath, flame-retardant and non-metallic material.
These types are used specifically for one or two dwelling not exceeding 3 storey buildings.
5. Shielded Nonmetallic Sheathed Cable. This type of cable, the type SNM, is a factory assembly of
two or more insulated conductors in an extruded core or moisture-resistant and flame-retardant
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material, covered with an overlapping spiral metal tape. This type is used in hazardous locations and
in cable trays or in raceways.
6. Service Entrance Cable. This is a single conductor or multi-conductor assembly provided with or
without an over-all covering, primarily used for services and of the types SE and USE.
7. Underground Feeder and Brach Circuit Cables. This type of cable, the type UF cable is a moisture-
resistant cable used for underground, including direct burial in the ground, as feeder or branch circuit.
8. Power and Control Tray Cable. Type TC cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated
conductors with or without associated bare or covered grounding under a metallic sheath. This is
used for installation in cable trays, raceways or where supported by a messenger wire.
9. Flat Cable Assemblies. This is an assembly of parallel conductors formed integrally with an
insulating material web designed specifically for field installation in metal surface raceway. Cables of
this type are the types FC.
10. Flat Conductor Cable. This type of cable, type FCC consists of three or more flat conductors placed
edge to edge, separated and enclosed within an insulating assembly. This used for general purpose,
appliance branch circuits and for individual branch circuits specifically on hard, smooth, continuous
floor surfaces, etc.
11. Medium Voltage Cables. MV cable is a single or multi-conductor solid dielectric insulated cable rated
2,001 volts or higher and is used for power systems up to 35,000 volts. The MV cables are of different
types and characteristics.
RACEWAYS
Raceways are channels designed for holding wires, cables or bus-bars, which are either made of metal
or insulating materials. The common types of raceways in household wiring are the a) conduits, b)
connectors, and c) others.
a) Conduits
Conduits, pipes or tubing are the most common electrical raceway.
According to the type of materials used, conduit maybe classified as either metallic such as
steel pipes or nonmetallic such as PVC, and the like.
According to its make, conduits maybe classified as: rigid metal, flexible metal, rigid nonmetal
and flexible nonmetal.
b) Connectors
A connector is a metal sleeve usually made of copper that is slipped over and secured to the
butted ends of conductors in making joint. A connector is also called a splicing sleeve.
c) Other Raceways
Aside from the conduits and connectors there are still numerous types and kinds of raceways,
among these are the a) conduit couplings, elbows and other fittings; b) conduit supports, such
as clamps, hangers,etc; c) cable trays, cablebus; d) metal raceways;e) nonmetal raceways.
OUTLETS, RECEPTACLES and other WIRING DEVICES OUTLETS.

An outlet is a point in the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment. The
kinds of outlets are: convenience outlet or attachment cap, lighting outlet, and receptacle outlet.
A convenience outlet or attachment cap is a device which by insertion in a receptacle, establishes

connection between the conductor of the flexible cord and the conductors connected permanently to the
receptacle.
A lighting outlet is an outlet intended for direct connection of a lamp holder, a lighting fixture, or a pendant
cord terminating in a lamp holder.
A receptacle outlet is an outlet where one or more receptacles are installed.
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TYPES OF WIRES
A. TYPES T, TW, THW
The most ordinary type of plastic insulated wire is the “type T”. It may be used only in dry locations.
Some manufactures no longer make the ordinary Type T, instead produce Type TW, which is identical in
appearance, but may be used in wet or dry locations. Also available is Type THW, is similar to Type TW
but withstand a greater degree of heat, and consequently has a higher ampacity rating in the larger sizes.
B. TYPES THHN, THWN

These are comparatively new types of wire, consisting of the basic Type THH and THW but with less
thermoplastic insulation, and with a final extruded jacket of nylon. Nylon has exceptional insulating
qualities and great mechanical strength, all of which results in a wire which is smaller in diameter than
ordinary Types T, TW, TW of corresponding size.
C. TYPE XHHW
In appearance, it resembles Types T, TW, THW but because of somewhat thinner layer of insulation, the
over-all diameter is smaller. The insulation is “cross-linked synthetic polymer,” which has an extraordinary
properties as to insulating value, heat resistance, and moisture resistance. It may be used in dry or wet
locations. While at present, it is an expensive wire, it would be no surprise if in due course of time, this
one single type will replace all the many types and subtypes of Type T or R now recognized by the Code.
D. RUBBER-COVERED WIRE
It consists of copper conductor, tinned to make it easier to remove the insulation, and for easy soldering.
Over the copper is a layer of rubber, the thickness of which depends on the size of the wire.
Then follows an outer fabric braid which is saturated with moisture-and-fire-resistant compounds; if it is
set on fire with a blowtorch, the flame dies out when the torch is removed.
E. OTHER TYPES
Other types such as the basic Type R, which is suitable for only in dry locations, is no longer being made.
The most ordinary kind is Type RHW, which may be used for dry or wet locations. Types RH and RHH
have insulation which withstands more heat and therefore have a higher ampacity in the larger size.
They may be used only in dry locations.
KINDS OF LOCATIONS
DAMP LOCATION
Partially protected locations under canopies, marquees, roofed open porches, and like locations, and
interior locations subjected to moderate degree of moisture, such as some basements, some barns, and
some cold-storage warehouses.
DRY LOCATION
A location not normally subject to dampness or wetness. A location classified as dry may be temporarily
subject to dampness or wetness, as in the case of a building under construction.
WET LOCATION
Installations underground or in concrete slabs or masonry in direct contact with the earth, and location
subject to saturation with water or other liquids, such as vehicle washing areas, and locations exposed
to weather and unprotected.
HAZARDOUS (CLASSIFIED) LOCATIONS

Locations where fire or explosion hazards may exist due to flammable gases or vapors, flammable liquids,
combustible dust, or ignitable fibers or flying.
1. Class I Locations. Class I locations are those in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be
present in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures.
a) Class I, Division 1. A Class I, Division 1 location is a location: I) in which ignitable

concentrations of flammable gases or vapors can exist under normal operating conditions; or
ii) in which ignitable concentrations of such gas vapors may exist frequently because of repair
or maintenance operations or because of leakage; or iii) in which breakdown or faulty
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operation of equipment or processes might release ignitable concentrations of flammable
gases or vapors, and might also cause simultaneous failure of electric equipment.
b) Class I, Division 2. A Class I, Division 2 location is a location: I) in which volatile flammable

liquids or flammable gases are handled, processes, or used, but in which the liquids, vapors,
or gases will normally be confines within closed containers or closed systems from which they
can escape only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems, or
in case of abnormal operation of equipment; or ii) in which ignitable concentrations of gases
or vapors are normally prevented by positive mechanical ventilation, and which might become
hazardous through failure or abnormal operation of the ventilating equipment; iii) that is
adjacent to Class I, Division 1 location, and to which ignitable concentrations of gases or
vapors might occasionally be communicated unless such communication is prevented by
adequate positive ventilation from a source of clean air, and effective safeguards against
ventilation failure are provided.
2. Class II Locations. Class II locations are those that are hazardous because of the presence of
combustible dust.
a) Class II, Division 1. A class II, Division 1 location is a location: I) in which combustible dust is in the
air normal operating conditions in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures; or
ii) where mechanical failure or abnormal operation of machinery or equipment might cause such
explosive or ignitable mixtures to be produced, and might also provide a source of ignition through
simultaneous failure of electric equipment, operation devices, or from other causes; or iii) in which
combustible dusts of an electrically conductive nature may be present in hazardous quantities.
b) Class II, Division 2. A Class II, Division 2 location is a location where combustible dust is not normally
in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures, and dust accumulations
are normally insufficient to interfere with the normal operation of electrical equipment or other
apparatus, but combustible dust may be in suspension in the air as a result of infrequent
malfunctioning of handling or processing equipment and where combustible dust accumulations on,
in, or in the vicinity of the electrical equipment may be sufficient to interfere with the safe dissipation
of heat from electrical equipment or may be ignitable by abnormal operation or failure of electrical
equipment.
3. Class III Locations. Class III locations are those that are hazardous because of the presence of easily
combustible fibers or flyings, but in which such fibers or flyings are not likely to be in suspension in the
air in quantities sufficient to produce ignitable mixtures.
a) Class III, Division 1. A Class III, Divisions 1 location is a location in which easily ignitable fibers or
materials producing combustible flyings are handled, manufactured, or used.
b) Class III, Division 2. A Class III, Division 2 location is a location in which easily ignitable fibers are
stored or handled.
B. FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES (RA 9514)

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9514
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1185 AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
SECTION 1. This Act shall be known as the “Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008”.
SECTION 2. It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety, promote economic development
through the prevention and suppression of all kinds, of destructive fires, and promote the
professionalization of the fire service as a profession. Towards this end, the State shall enforce all
laws, rules and regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures,
and promote accountability in the fire protection and prevention service.
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SECTION 3. Definition of Terms. ‑ As used in this Fire Code, the following words and phrases shall
mean and be construed as indicated:
Abatement ‑ any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard.
Administrator ‑ any person who acts as agent of the owner and manages the use of a
building for him.
Blasting Agent ‑ any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set off
explosives. 2009lawsprem
Cellulose Nitrate or Nitro Cellulose ‑ A highly combustible and explosive compound

produced by the reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.
Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin) ‑ any plastic substance, materials or compound having
cellulose nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base.
Combustible Flammable or Inflammable ‑ Descriptive of materials that are easily set on

fire.
Combustible Fiber ‑ Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton, oakum,
rags, waste cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw, Spanish moss, excelsior and other
similar materials commonly used in commerce.
Combustible Liquid ‑ any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8°C (100 °F).
Corrosive Liquid ‑ any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter or with
certain chemicals.
Curtain Board ‑ A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive materials attached to

and extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, to divide the underside of the
roof into separate compartments so that heat and smoke will be directed upwards to a roof
vent.
Cryogenic ‑ Descriptive of any material which by its nature or as a result of its reaction
with other elements produces a rapid drop in temperature of the immediate surroundings.
Damper ‑ A normally open device installed inside air duct system which automatically
closes to restrict the passage of smoke or fire.
Distillation ‑ The process of first raising the temperature in separate the more volatile from
the less volatile parts and then cooling and condensing the resulting vapor so as to
produce a nearly purified substance.
Duct System ‑ A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.
Dust ‑ A finely powdered substance which, when mixed with air in the proper proportion
and ignited will cause an explosion.
Electrical Arc ‑ An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by passage of an electric current
across a space between two conductors or terminals due to the incandescence of the
conducting vapor.
Ember ‑ A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned, and is still
oxidizing without the manifestation of flames.
Finishes ‑ Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective

purposes.
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Fire ‑ the active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of combustion.
Fire Trap ‑ A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it lacks
adequate exits or fire escapes.
Fire Alarm ‑ Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warn the
occupants of the building or firefighting elements of the presence or danger of fire to
enable them to undertake immediate action to save life and property and to suppress the
fire.
Fire Door ‑ A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or partitions.
Fire Hazard ‑ Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the
probability of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with
firefighting operations and the safeguarding of life and property.
Fire Lane ‑ the portion of a roadway or public-way that should be kept opened and
unobstructed at all times for the expedient operation of firefighting units.
Fire Protective and Fire Safety Device ‑ Any device intended for the protection of buildings
or persons to include, but not limited to, built-in protection system such as sprinklers and
other automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and combustion products
and other warning system components, personal protective equipment such as fire
blankets, helmets, fire suits, gloves and other garments that may be put on or worn by
persons to protect themselves during fire.
Fire Safety Constructions ‑ Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors,
windows, vents, means of egress etc. integral to and incorporated into a building or
structure in order to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the
building is evacuated. These features are also designed to achieve, among others, safe
and rapid evacuation of people through means of egress on construction which are sealed
from smoke or fire, the confinement of fire or smoke in the room or floor of origin and delay
their spread to other parts of the building by means of smoke sealed and fire resistant
doors, walls and floors. It shall also mean to include the treatment of buildings components
or contents with flame retardant chemicals.
Flash Point ‑ the minimum temperature at which any material gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air.
Forcing ‑ A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or
dimensions.
Fulminate ‑ A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.
Hazardous Operation/Process ‑ any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, etc.,

that uses or produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.
Horizontal Exit ‑ Passageway from one building to another or through or around a wall in
approximately the same floor level.
Hose Box ‑ A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored and
arranged for firefighting.
Hose Reel ‑ A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound and
connected.
Hypergolic Fuel ‑ A rocket or liquid propellant which consist of combinations of fuels and
oxidizers which ignite spontaneously on contact with each other.
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Industrial Baking and Drying ‑ The industrial process of subjecting materials to heat for the
purpose of removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain chemical
salts to form a uniform glazing on the surface of materials being treated.
Jumper ‑ A piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device in an

electrical system.
Occupancy ‑ The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended to be
used.
Occupant ‑ Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof by
virtue of a lease contract with the owner or administrator or by permission or sufferance
of the latter.
Organic Peroxide ‑ A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily.
It causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under conditions of
high temperature.
Overloading ‑ the use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or
consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical system.
Owner ‑ the person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or real
property.
Oxidizing Material ‑ A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to stimulate
or support combustion.
Pressurized or Forced Draft Burning Equipment ‑ Type of burner where the fuel is
subjected to pressure prior to discharge into the combustion chamber and/or which
includes fans or other provisions for the introduction of air at above normal atmospheric
pressure into the same combustion chamber.
Public Assembly Building ‑ any building or structure where fifty (50) or more people
congregate, gather, or assemble for any purpose.
Public Way ‑ Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to the
sky, deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for public use.
Pyrophoric ‑ Descriptive of any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed to air.
Refining ‑ A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed from a
mixture in order to produce a pure element or compound. It shall also refer to partial
distillation and electrolysis.
Self-closing Doors ‑ Automatic closing doors that are designed to confine smoke and heat
and delay the spread of fire.
Smelting ‑ Melting or fusing of metallic ores or compounds so as to separate impurities

from pure metals.
Sprinkler System ‑ An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping installed in a

building, structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern which
automatically discharges water when activated by heat or combustion products from a fire.
Standpipe System ‑ A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be
attached on each floor, including a system by which water is made available to the outlets
as needed.
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Vestibule ‑ A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior parts
of a house or building.
Vertical Shaft ‑ an enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor, as
well as from the base to the top of the building.
SECTION 4. Applicability of the Code. ‑ The provisions of the Fire Code shall apply to all persons
and all private and public buildings, facilities or structures erected or constructed before and after its
effectivity.
SECTION 5. Responsibility for the Enforcement of this Code. ‑ This Code shall be administered and
enforced by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), under the direct supervision and control of the Chief
of the Bureau of Fire Protection, through the hierarchy of organization as provided for in Chapter VI
of Republic Act No. 6975. With the approval of the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and
Local Government (DILG), the Chief, BFP, is hereby authorized to:
a. Issue implementing rules and regulations, and prescribe standards, schedules of fees/fire
service charges and administrative penalties therefor as provided in the pertinent provisions
of this Code;
b. Reorganize the BFP as may be necessary and appropriate;
c. Support and assist fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer organizations in the country
who shall undergo mandatory fire suppression, inspection, rescue, emergency medical
services and related emergency response trainings and competency evaluations to be
conducted by the BFP. In the case of the fire practitioners, they shall undergo mandatory
continuous professional education and competency evaluation of their expertise, knowledge
and skills in the area of fire science, engineering and technology to be conducted by the BFP.
BFP may enter into external party agreements for the conduct of trainings, education and
evaluation of fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer organizations, which shall be
under the full control and supervision of the BFP: Provided, however, That during firefighting
operations, fire volunteer organizations shall be under the direct operational control of the fire
ground commanders of the BFP;
d. Enter into long term agreement, either through public biddings or negotiations in accordance
with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as the Government
Procurement Reform Act of 2003, for the acquisition of fire prevention, fire protection and
firefighting investigation, rescue, paramedics, hazardous material handling equipment,
supplies, materials and related technical services necessary for the fire service;
e. Enter into Memoranda of Agreement with other departments, bureaus, agencies, offices and
corporations of the government, as well as private institutions, in order to define areas of
cooperation and coordination and delineate responsibility on fire prevention education, fire
safety, fire prevention, fire suppression and other matters of common concern;
f. Call on the police, other law enforcement agencies, and local government assistance to render
necessary assistance in the enforcement of this Code;
g. Designate a fire safety inspector through his/her duly authorized representative, who shall
conduct an inspection of every building or structure within his area of responsibility at least
once a year and every time the owner, administrator or occupant shall renew his/her business
permit or permit to operate; No occupancy permit, business or permit to operate shall be
issued without securing a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) from the Chief, BFP, or
his/her duly authorized representative;
h. Inspect at reasonable time, any building, structure, installation or premises for dangerous or
hazardous conditions or materials as set forth in this Code, provided that in case of single
family dwelling, an inspection must be upon the consent of the occupant or upon lawful order
from the proper court. The Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative shall order the
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owner/occupant to remove hazardous materials and/or stop hazardous operation/process in
accordance with the standards set by this Code or its implementing rules or regulations or
other pertinent laws;
i. Where conditions exist and are deemed hazardous to life and property, to order the
owner/occupant of any building or structure to summarily abate such hazardous conditions;
j. Require the building owner/occupant to submit plans and specifications, and other pertinent
documents of said building to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards; and
k. Issue a written notice to the owner and/or contractor to stop work on portion of any work due
to absence, or in violation of approved plans and specifications, permit and/or clearance or
certification as approved by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative. The
notice shall state the nature of the violation and no work shall be continued on that portion
until the violation had been corrected.
SECTION 6. Technical Staff. ‑ The Chief, BFP shall constitute a technical staff of highly qualified
persons who are knowledgeable on fire prevention, fire safety, and fire suppression. They may be
drawn not only from the organic members of the BFP and other government offices and agencies,
but also from other sources in the latter case, they will either be appointed into the service or hired
as consultants in accordance with law. The technical staff shall study, review and evaluate latest
developments and standards on fire technology; prepare plans/programs, on fire safety, prevention
and suppression and evaluate implementation thereof; develop programs on the professionalization
of the fire service; coordinate with appropriate government and private institutions for the offering of
college courses on fire technology and fire protection engineering; propose amendments to the Fire
Code; advise the Chief, BFP on any matter brought to his attention; and perform such other functions
as directed on any matter brought to his attention and perform such other functions as directed by
higher authorities.
SECTION 7. Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions and Protective and/or
Warning Systems. ‑ As may be defined and provided in the rules and regulations, owners,
administrators or occupants of buildings, structures and their premises or facilities and other
responsible persons shall be required to comply with the following, as may be appropriate:
a) Inspection Requirement ‑ A fire safety inspection shall be conducted by the Chief, BFP or his duly
authorized representative as prerequisite to the grants of permits and/or licenses by local
governments and other government agencies concerned, for the:
(1) Use or occupancy of buildings, structures, facilities or their premises including the installation
or fire protection and fire safety equipment, and electrical system in any building structure or
facility; and
(2) Storage, handling and/or use of explosives or of combustible, flammable, toxic and other
hazardous materials;
b) Safety Measures for Hazardous Materials ‑ Fire safety measures shall be required for the
manufacture, storage, handling and/or use of hazardous materials involving:
(1) Cellulose nitrate plastic of any kind;
(2) Combustible fibers;
(3) Cellular materials such as foam, rubber, sponge rubber and plastic foam;
(4) Flammable and combustible liquids or gases of any classification;
(5) Flammable paints, varnishes, stains and organic coatings;
(6) High-piled or widely spread combustible stock;
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(7) Metallic magnesium in any form;
(8) Corrosive liquids, oxidizing materials, organic peroxide, nitromethane, ammonium

nitrate, or any amount of highly toxic, pyrophoric, hypergolic, or cryogenic materials
or poisonous gases as well as material compounds which when exposed to heat or
flame become a fire conductor, or generate excessive smoke or toxic gases;
(9) blasting agents, explosives and special industrial explosive materials, blasting caps,
black powder, liquid nitroglycerine, dynamite, nitro cellulose, fulminates of any kind,
and plastic explosives containing ammonium salt or chlorate;
(10) Firework materials of any kind or form;
(11) Matches in commercial quantities;
(12) Hot ashes, live coals and embers;
(13) Mineral, vegetable or animal oils and other derivatives/by-products;
(14) Combustible waste materials for recycling or resale;
(15) Explosive dusts and vapors; and
(16) Agriculture, forest, marine or mineral products which may undergo spontaneous
combustion;
(17) any other substance with potential to cause harm to persons, property or the
environment because of one or more of the following: a) The chemical properties of
the substance; b) The physical properties of the substance; c) The biological
properties of the substance. Without limiting the definition of hazardous material, all
dangerous goods, combustible liquids and chemicals are hazardous materials.
c) Safety Measures for Hazardous Operation/Processes ‑ Fire safety measures shall be required for
the following hazardous operation/processes:
(1) Welding or soldering;
(2) Industrial baking and drying;
(3) Waste disposal;
(4) Pressurized/forced-draft burning equipment;
(5) Smelting and forging;
(6) Motion picture projection using electrical arc lamps;
(7) Refining, distillation and solvent extraction; and
(8) Such other operations or processes as may hereafter be prescribed in the rules and
regulations.
d) Provision on Fire Safety Construction, Protective and Warning System ‑ Owners, occupants or
administrator or buildings, structures and their premises or facilities, except such other buildings or
structures as may be exempted in the rules and regulations to be promulgated under Section 5
hereof, shall incorporate and provide therein fire safety construction, protective and warning system,
and shall develop and implement fire safety programs, to wit:
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(1) Fire protection features such as sprinkler systems, hose boxes, hose reels or standpipe
systems and other firefighting equipment;
(2) Fire alarm systems;
(3) Fire walls to separate adjoining buildings, or warehouses and storage areas from other
occupancies in the same building;
(4) Provisions for confining the fire at its source such as fire resistive floors and walls extending
up to the next floor slab or roof, curtain boards and other fire containing or stopping
components;
(5) Termination of all exits in an area affording safe passage to a public way or safe dispersal
area;
(6) Stairway, vertical shafts, horizontal exits and other means of egress sealed from smoke and
heat;
(7) A fire exit plan for each floor of the building showing the routes from each other room to
appropriate exits, displayed prominently on the door of such room;
(8) Self-closing fire resistive doors leading to corridors;
(9) Fire dampers in centralized air-conditioning ducts;
(10) Roof vents for use by fire fighters; and
(11) Properly marked and lighted exits with provision for emergency lights to adequately illuminate
exit ways in case of power failure.
SECTION 8. Prohibited Acts. ‑ The following are declared as prohibited act and omission:
a. Obstructing or blocking the exit ways or across to buildings clearly marked for fire safety
purposes, such as but not limited to aisles in interior rooms, any part of stairways, hallways,
corridors, vestibules, balconies or bridges leading to a stairway or exit of any kind, or tolerating
or allowing said violations;
b. Constructing gates, entrances and walkways to building components and yards, and
temporary or permanent structures on public ways, which obstruct the orderly and easy
passage of fire fighting vehicles and equipment;
c. Prevention, interference or obstruction of any operation of the fire service, or of duly organized
and authorized fire brigades;
d. Obstructing designated fire lanes or access to fire hydrants;
e. Overcrowding or admission of persons beyond the authorized capacity in movie houses,

theaters, coliseums, auditoriums or other public assembly buildings, except in other assembly
areas on the ground floor with open sides or open doors sufficient to provide safe exits;
f. Locking fire exits during period when people are inside the building;
g. Prevention or obstruction of the automatic closure of fire doors or smoke partitions or

dampers;
h. Use of fire protective or firefighting equipment of the fire service other than for firefighting
except in other emergencies where their use are justified;
i. Giving false or malicious fire alarms;
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j. Smoking in prohibited areas as may be determined by fire service, or throwing of cigars,

cigarettes, burning objects in places which may start or cause fire;
k. Abandoning or leaving a building or structure by the occupant or owner without appropriate

safety measures;
l. Removing, destroying, tampering or obliterating any authorized mark, seal, sign or tag posted
or required by the fire service for fire safety in any building, structure or processing equipment;
and
m. Use of jumpers or tampering with electrical wiring or overloading the electrical system beyond
its designated capacity or such other practices that would tend to undermine the fire safety
features of the electrical system.
SECTION 9. Violations, Penalties and Abatement of Fire Hazards. ‑ Fire hazards shall be abated
immediately. The Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative, upon the report that a
violation of this Code or other pertinent laws, rules and regulations is being committed, shall issue
notice/order to comply to the owner, administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the
condition of the building or structure, indicating among other things, the period within which
compliance shall be effected, which shall be within ten (10) to fifteen (15) days after the receipt of
the notice/order, depending on the reasonableness to adequately comply with the same.
If after the lapse of the aforesaid period, the owner, administrator, occupant or other responsible
persons failed to comply, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative shall put up a sign
in front of the building or structure that it is a fire hazard. Specifically, the notice shall bear the words
“WARNING: THIS BUILDING/STRUCTURE IS A FIRE HAZARD”, which shall remain posted until
such time that the owner, administrator, occupant or other persons responsible for the condition of
the building, structure and their premises or facilities abate the same, but such period shall not
exceed fifteen (15) days from the lapse of the initial period given in the notice/order to comply.
Finally, with the failure of the owner, administrator, occupant or other persons responsible for the
condition of the building, structure and their premises or facilities to comply within the period specified
above, the Chief, BFP may issue order for such abatement. If the owner, administrator or occupant
of buildings, structure and their premises or facilities does not abate the same within the period fixed
in said order, the building, structure, premises or facilities shall be ordered closed by the Chief, BFP
or his/her duly authorized representative notwithstanding any permit clearance or certificate earlier
issued by the local authorities.
Any building or structure assessed and declared by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative as a firetrap on account of the gravity or palpability of the violation or is causing clear
and present imminent fire danger to adjoining establishments and habitations shall be declared a
public nuisance, as defined in the Civil Code of the Philippines in a notice to be issued to the owner,
administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building, structure and
their premises or facilities. If the assessed value of the nuisance or the amount to be spent in abating
the same is not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), the owner, administrator or
occupant thereof shall abate the hazard within Fifteen (15) days, or if the assessed value is more
than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), within thirty (30) days from receipt of the order
declaring said building or structure a public nuisance; otherwise, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly
authorized representative shall forthwith cause its summary abatement. Failure to comply within five
(5) days from the receipt of the notice shall cause the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative to put up a sign in front of the building or structure, at or near the entrance of such
premises, notifying the public that such building or structure is a “FIRE TRAP”, which shall remain
until the owner, administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building,
structure and their premises or facilities abate the same within the specified period.
Summary abatement as used herein shall mean all corrective measures undertaken to abate
hazards which shall include, but not limited to remodeling, repairing, strengthening, reconstructing,
removal and demolition, either partial or total, of the building or structure. The expenses incurred by
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the government for such summary abatement shall be borne by the owner, administrator or
occupant. These expenses shall constitute a prior lien upon such property.
SECTION 10. Enforcement of the Lien. ‑ If the owner, administrator or occupant fails to reimburse
the government of the expenses incurred in the summary abatement within ninety (90) days from
the completion of such abatement, the building or structure shall be sold at public auction in
accordance with existing laws and rules. No property subject of lien under Section 9 hereof, may be
sold at a price lower than the abatement expenses incurred by the government. The property shall
be forfeited in favor of the government if the highest bid is not at least equal to the abatement
expenses.
SECTION 11. Penalties.
1. against the private individual:
a) Administrative fine ‑ Any person who violates any provision of the Fire Code or any of the rules
and regulations promulgated under this Act shall be penalized by an administrative fine of not
exceeding Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) or in the proper case, by stoppage of operations
or by closure of such buildings, structures and their premises or facilities which do not comply
with the requirements or by both such administrative fine and closure/stoppage of operation to
be imposed by the Chief, BFP: Provided, That the payment of the fine, stoppage of operations
and/or closure of such buildings, structures, and their premises or facilities shall not absolve the
violator from correcting the deficiency or abating the fire hazard. The decision of the Chief, BFP,
under this subsection, may be appealed to the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government.
Unless ordered by the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government the appeal shall not stay
the execution of the order of the Chief, BFP. The decision of the Secretary of the Interior and
Local Government shall be final and executory.
b) Punitive ‑ In case of willful failure to correct the deficiency or abate the fire hazard as provided
in the preceding subsection, the violator shall, upon conviction, be punished by imprisonment
of not less than six (6) months nor more than six (6) years, or by a fine of not more than One
hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or both such fine and imprisonment: Provided,
however, That in the case of a corporation, firm, partnership or association, the fine and/or
imprisonment shall be imposed upon its officials responsible for such violation, and in case the
guilty party is an alien, in addition to the penalties herein prescribed, he shall immediately be
deported: Provided, finally, That where the violation is attended by injury, loss of life and/or
damage to property, the violator shall be proceeded against under the applicable provisions of
the Revised Penal Code.
Any person who, without authority, maliciously removes the sign that a building or structure is
a fire hazard/firetrap placed by the authorized person in this Code shall be liable for
imprisonment for thirty (30) days or a fine not exceeding One hundred thousand pesos
(P100,000.00) or both in the discretion of the court.
Any person, who disobeys the lawful order of the fire ground commander during a firefighting
operation shall be penalized with imprisonment of one (1) day to thirty (30) days and a fine of
Five thousand pesos (P5, 000.00).
2. against the public officer/employee
a) Administrative ‑ The following acts or omissions shall render the public officer/employee in
charge of the enforcement of this Code, its implementing rules and regulations and other pertinent
laws, administratively liable, and shall be punished by reprimand, suspension or removal in the
discretion of the disciplining authority, depending on the gravity of the offense and without prejudice
to the provisions of other applicable laws:
(1) Unjustified failure of the public officer/employee to conduct inspection of buildings or

structures at least once a year;
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(2) Deliberate failure to put up a sign in front of the building or structure within his/her area of
responsibility found to be violating this Code, its implementing rules and regulations and other
pertinent laws, that the same is a “FIRE HAZARD” or a “FIRE TRAP”;
(3) Endorsing to the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative for the certification, or
submitting a report that the building or structure complies with the standards set by this Code,
its implementing rules or regulations or other pertinent laws when the same is contrary to fact;
(4) Issuance or renewal of occupancy or business permit without the fire safety inspection
certificate issued by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative;
(5) Failure to cancel the occupancy or business permit after the owner, administrator, occupant
or other person responsible for the condition of the building, structure and other premises
failed to comply with the notice/order for compliance with the standards set by this Code, its
implementing rules and regulations and other pertinent laws, within the specified period;
(6) Failure to abate a public nuisance within fifteen (15) days after the owner, administrator,
occupant or other responsible person failed to abate the same within the period contained in
the notice to abate;
(7) Abusing his/her authority in the performance of his/her duty through acts of corruption and
other unethical practices; or
(8) Other willful impropriety or gross negligence in the performance of his/her duty as provided in
this Act or its implementing rules and regulations.
b) Punitive — In case of willful violation involving the abovementioned acts or omissions

enumerated under Section 11 subparagraph 2(A), the public officer/employee shall, upon conviction,
be punished by imprisonment of not less than six (6) months nor more than six (6) years, or by a fine
of not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or both such fine and imprisonment:
Provided, That where the violation is attended by injury, loss of life and/or property, the violator shall
be proceeded against under the applicable provisions of the Revised Penal Code.
SECTION 12. Appropriation and Sources of Income. ‑
n. To support the manpower; infrastructure and equipment needs of the fire service of the BFP,
such amount as may be necessary to attain the objectives of the Fire Code shall be appropriated
and included in the annual appropriation of the BFP.
o. To partially provide for the funding of the fire service the following taxes and fees which shall
accrue to the general fund of the National Government, are hereby imposed:
(9) Fees to be charged for the issuance of certificates, permits and licenses as provided for in
Section 7 (a) hereof;
(10) One-tenth of one per centum (0.1%) of the verified estimated value of buildings or
structures to be erected, from the owner thereof, but not to exceed Fifty thousand (P50,
000.00) pesos, one half to be paid prior to the issuance of the building permit, and the balance,
after final inspection and prior to the issuance of the use and occupancy permit;
(11) One-hundredth of one per centum (0.10%) of the assessed value of buildings or structures
annually payable upon payment of the real estate tax, except on structures used as single
family dwellings;
(12) Two per centum (2%) of all premiums, excluding re-insurance premiums for the sale of
fire, earthquake and explosion hazard insurance collected by companies, persons or agents
licensed to sell such insurances in the Philippines;
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(13) Two per centum (2%) of gross sales of companies, persons or agents selling firefighting
equipment, appliances or devices, including hazard detection and warning systems; and
(14) Two per centum (2%) of the service fees received from fire, earthquake, and explosion
hazard reinsurance surveys and post loss service of insurance adjustment companies doing
business in the Philippines directly through agents.
SECTION 13. Collection of Taxes, Fees and Fines. ‑ All taxes, fees and fines provided in this Code
shall be collected by the BFP: Provided, That twenty percent (20%) of all such collections shall be
set aside and retained for use by the city or municipal government concerned, which shall
appropriate the same exclusively for the use of the operation and maintenance of its local fire station,
including the construction and repair of fire station: Provided, further, That the remaining eighty
(80%) shall be remitted to the National Treasury under a trust fund assigned for the modernization
of the BFP.
SECTION 13-A. Assessment of Fire Code Taxes, Fees and Fines. ‑ The assessment of fire code
taxes, fees and fines is vested upon the BFP. The BFP shall, subject to the approval of the DILG,
prescribe the procedural rules for such purpose.
SECTION 13-B. Collection and Assessment of Local Taxes, Fees and Fines. ‑ The collection and
assessment of taxes, fees and fines as prescribed in the Local Government Code, except those
contained in this Code, shall be the function of the concerned local government units.
SECTION 13-C. Use of Income Generated from the Enforcement of the Fire Code. ‑ The Chief, BFP
is authorized, subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, to use
the income generated under the Fire Code for procurement of fire protection and firefighting
investigation, rescue, paramedics, supplies and materials, and related technical services necessary
for the fire service and the improvement of facilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection and abatement
of fire hazards.
The BFP shall determine the optimal number of equipment, including, but not limited to, fire trucks
and fire hydrants, required by every local government unit for the proper delivery of fire protection
services in its jurisdiction.
In the procurement of firefighting and investigation supplies and materials, the Bureau of Product
Standards of the Department of Trade and Industry shall evaluate, determine and certify if the supply
so procured conforms to the product standards fixed by the BFP. For this purpose, the BFP shall
submit to the Bureau of Product Standards a detailed set of product standards that must be complied
with in the procurement of firefighting and investigation supplies and materials within six (6) months
from the effectivity of this Act.
SECTION 13-D. Monitoring the Implementation of the Fire Code and the Amount of the Fees
Collected. ‑ The Chief, BFP shall, within six (6) months from the effectivity of this Code, submit to
the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government for his/her approval, a management tool or
mechanism that would ensure effective monitoring of the enforcement of the Fire Code to include
the amount of Fire Code fees collected.
SECTION 14. Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior and
Local Government shall issue the rules and regulations for its effective implementation.
SECTION 15. Presidential Decree No. 1185 is hereby repealed. All laws, presidential decrees,
letters of instructions, executive orders, rules and regulations insofar as they are inconsistent with
this Act, are hereby repealed or amended as the case may be.
SECTION 16. In case any provision of this Act or any portion thereof is declared unconstitutional by
a competent court, other provisions shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 17. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette
or in two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.
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NOTE: Other detailed provisions of this code is listed and explained further in the given reference
VI. LEARNING ACTIVITIES

1. Students will group themselves into ten (10).
2. Every group will conduct an online interview with a registered electrical engineer and know their
duties and responsibilities in the electrical design.
3. Know the platforms on how to be a professional electrical engineer.
4. Know the qualifications and requirements on how to be an effective electrical engineer.
VII. EVALUATION (Note: Not to be included in the student’s copy of the IM)
VIII. ASSIGNMENT
1. Prepare or draw (manually or using CAD) a residential building plan with the following Electrical
Plans/ Layout:
a. Power Layout
b. Lighting Layout
c. Schedule of Loads
d. Riser Diagram
e. General Notes
2. Prepare a fire evacuation plan, study the figure below.
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X. REFERENCES
Philippine Electrical Code 2017 Edition

RA 9514: Fire Code of the Philippines
PREPARED BY:
MARY ABEGAIL P. CADANG
NVSU-FR-ICD-05-00 (081220
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MODULE 4 Electrical Codes and Fire Codes of The PH

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MODULE 4 Electrical Codes and Fire Codes of The PH

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Republic of the Philippines

NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY

DEGREE PROGRAM BSCE COURSE NO. BLDG 1

I. UNIT TITLE/CHAPTER TITLE

II. LESSON TITLE

III. LESSON OVERVIEW

IV. DESIRED LEARNING OUTCOMES

A. PHILIPPINE ELECTRICAL CODE ( P E C )

PEC I - Electrical Installation inside buildings.

PEC II - Electrical Installation outside buildings.

TWO (2) CATEGORIES OF PEC RULES

1. Mandatory Rules - characterized by the use of the word “SHALL’’.

1. P.D. 1096 - National Building Code

2. P.D. 1185 - Fire Code of the Philippines

Government Authorities who implement PEC

1. Office of the Building Official

2. Office of the City Electrician ( City Electrical Supervising Engineer )

3. Office of the Municipal Electrician ( Municipal Electrical Supervising Engineer)

4. Regional Office of the DOLE

SCOPE OF THE PEC

PERMITS AND INSPECTION CERTIFICATES

A permit is required before undertaking any electrical installation.

A permit is not required for;

Requirements for Electrical Permit

ELECTRIC CIRCUITS IN BUILDING

- A building or other structure served shall be supplied by only one service.

1. for fire pump where a separate service is required.

2. for emergency electrical system where a separate service is required.

4. Capacity Requirements. Two or more services shall be permitted:

5. Building of Large Area (10,000 m2 or more Total Area).

THE OVERHEAD SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTOR

UNDERGROUND SERVICE-LATERAL CONDUCTOR

SIZE AND RATING

2. The Underground Service Entrance

SERVICE - ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS

- No. of Service-Entrance Conductor Sets

SIZE AND RATING:

INSTALLATION OF SERVICE CONDUCTORS

THE SERVICE EQUIPMENT-DISCONNECTING MEANS

NUMBER OF DISCONNECTING MEANS:

FEEDERS AND MAIN

7 REQUIRED PARTS OF A STANDARD ELECTRICAL PLAN

B. LEGEND AND SYMBOLS

F. ELECTRICAL LIGHTING AND POWER LAYOUT

B. LIGHTING AND POWER LOADS:

Grounding could be accomplished in the following manner:

Principles applied in installing panel board

PROTECTION OF THE BRANCH CIRCUIT

The causes of overcurrent are:

Ampacity - is the current-carrying capacity of an electric conductor.

THE CIRCUIT BREAKER AND THE FUSE

Advantages of circuit breaker over a fuse

Advantages of fuse over a circuit breaker

Standard Ampere Ratings of Fuses and Inverse time circuit breakers

RECEPTACLES AND WIRING DEVICES

List of some good electrical conductors

List of some insulating materials

WIRES AND CABLES

Cord is the term given to an insulated stranded wire.

Area in circular mil = (diameter in mils) 2

COMMONLY USED PREFIXES

COMMONLY USED ENGLISH-METRIC EQUIVALENTS

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CABLES