ACEEE Hails America's Leading Energy-Efficiency Programs
Washington, D.C.-based American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), a nonprofit research group, recently selected 90 of America's leading energy-efficiency programs in 20 different categories for recognition. The programs were selected as part of a national review of outstanding programs offered by utilities and other organizations that help customers reduce energy use through improved energy efficiency."

To read more, visit the EC&M Web site.

NETA Releases ANSI/NETA MTS-2007
Portage, Mich.-based InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA) recently published ANSI/NETA MTS-2007, "Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Distribution Equipment and Systems, 2007 Edition." The 250-page guide covers suggested field tests and inspections to assess the suitability for continued service and reliability of electrical power distribution systems. The standard addresses topics such as applicable references, power systems studies, electromagnetic field testing, motor control, electrical safety equipment, medium- and high-voltage cables, and arc flash hazard analysis.

To read more, visit the EC&M Web site.

California Passes Legislation Promoting Energy Efficiency
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed a package of legislation promoting energy efficiency, conservation, and pollution reduction. Among the bills signed were the following:

• The California Lighting Efficiency and Toxics Reduction Act, which prohibits the manufacturing for sale or the sale of certain general purpose lights that contain hazardous substances. In addition, the bill requires the California Energy Commission to adopt energy efficiency standards for all general purpose lights.


• The Solar Water Heating and Efficiency Act of 2007, which provides incentives to attain the goal of installing 20,000 solar water heating systems in the state by 2017.

To read this on the Web, visit the EC&M Web site.

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New Flip Clip from Cooper B-Line
The fastest, most inexpensive way to securely hang and level wire basket tray, saving installers time and money. The Flip Clip^™ can be used with 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch threaded rods, eliminating the need for multiple hanger sizes. The Flip Clip requires only one nut and one tool for installation. www.cooperbline.com/flipclip

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New York Electrical Contractor
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is seeking qualified electrical construction firms interested in performing work at Pier 86 within the Hudson River Park located at West 46th Street along the Hudson River on Manhattan's west side. The deadline for proposals is Nov. 15. For more information, visit the RFP/DB Web site.

CCTV Project in Ohio
The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is looking for a qualified contractor to install CCTV security equipment at its McKinley Avenue facility. A pre-bid conference is scheduled for Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. EDT. The deadline for bids is Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. EDT. For more information, visit the COTA Web site.

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New Megger MIT400 Series 1kV Insulation Testers
The perfect high-performance tester for commercial and plant electricians. It features a CAT IV, 600V rating, digital and analog arc display, adjustable insulation test voltages, and exceptional measurement range from 20 G-ohms to 200 G-ohms. Six models to choose from with a three year warranty. www.megger.com

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Web Exclusives
Business Brief
Aurora, Ohio-based TCP, Inc. recently celebrated the opening of its new global headquarters. The 154,000-square-foot facility houses a two-story office space, warehouse, distribution center, product testing labs, and customer service call center.

For more business briefs, visit EC&M's Web site.

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Belden^® Offers a Full Line of 2-Hour Rated Fire-Resistive (Circuit Integrity) Cables for a range of applications: UL2196/NEC-listed industrial cables are PLTC-CI shielded multi-conductor types; shipboard cables are ABS-type approved shielded multi-conductor cables with low-smoke zero halogen jackets; shielded/unshielded multi-conductor Safe-T-Line^® EVAC system cables meet all applicable survivability requirements. For New Product Bulletin #249, call 1.800.BELDEN.1 or www.belden.com/ECM249.

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Eye on Safety
OSHA Cites Manufacturer for
Willful Violations
The Dept. of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently proposed a $170,500 fine against Huntley, Ill.-based R&R Metalcraft, Inc. This marks the third citation the manufacturer of metal parts and sub-generators has received from OSHA. The most serious violations were for four "willful violations." OSHA alleges the company failed to provide workers with proper safety equipment while dealing with energy sources, failed to properly train employees in how to recognize hazardous energy sources, failed to establish proper lockout/tagout procedures, and failed to provide guard protections.

"Injuries and fatalities from accidents such as electrocution, amputation from improper guard protection, or falls are preventable," says Kathy O'Connell, OSHA's Aurora director. "Employers must remain dedicated to keeping the workplace safe and healthful or face intense scrutiny by OSHA." In 2003, R&R Metalcraft was issued 24 citations for lockout/tagout procedures, machine guarding, and electrical hazards. The company was fined $23,000 but paid $7,500 after negotiations.

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ClearTrax® Lay-In Connectors
ILSCO has introduced ClearTrax® lay-in connectors. ClearTrax range taking connectors feature easy lay-in installation of aluminum or copper conductors and accommodate a wire range of 1000kcmil - 6. Benefits are a faster and safer connection resulting from reduced cable manipulation during installation. Fabricated from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy to ensure strength and conductivity, ClearTrax is clear plated for low contact resistance. The compact body is designed as a single piece and is engineered for heat dissipation. www.ilsco.com

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Shows and Events
Automation Fair 2007 Rockwell Automation will present Automation Fair 2007 from Nov. 14-15 in Chicago. The event will include more than 50 technical sessions, 20 hands-on labs, and more than 100 exhibitors. Topics discussed in the forums include automotive, household and personal care, oil and gas, and waste and wastewater. For more information and to register, visit the Allen-Bradley Web site.

EC&M Code Change Conferences
Where do you turn when you need accurate information on changes to the National Electrical Code? Acknowledged as the leaders in providing information on the NEC, EC&M magazine and EC&M seminars have been the preferred sources of this information for more than 60 years. Seven Code change conferences have been scheduled in the fall of 2007. Host cities include: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Orlando, Philadelphia, St. Louis, and Seattle.

As an approved provider with the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), through its Registered Continuing Education Provider Program (RCEPP), our 2008 Code change conferences will provide professional engineers Professional Development Hours (PDHs), a requirement for re-licensing in many states. The conferences are also approved by every state that has a continuing education requirement for contractors and electricians.

For additional information on the dates and locations of these events, download a pdf of the schedule from the EC&M Web site.