NBC
What is National Building Code (NBC) & what is
role of NBC here?
• The full form of NBC is National Building Code of India.
• It is a national instrument providing guidelines regulating the building
construction activities which includes electrical work, air conditioning
& ventilation, fire & life safety work etc across India.
• It is applicable for all agencies/departments involved in construction
activities such as Public Works Department, Govt construction
departments, local bodies or private construction agencies.
SCOPE:
• Part-8/Section 2 of NBC covers the essential requirements for
electrical installations in buildings to ensure efficient use of electricity
including safety from fire & shock.
• This section also includes general requirements relating to lightning
protection of buildings & brief provisions on certain allied
installations.
General Requirements
• All electrical installations must comply with the Indian Electricity Rules
(1956), relevant IS standards, and safety regulations.
• Installations should prevent risks of electric shock, fire, or equipment
damage.
• Insulation of cables and equipment must be adequate for the system's
voltage and current rating.
• Electrical installations should be designed to handle the anticipated load
and allow for future expansion.
• Lighting circuits (separate for common areas and individual rooms).
• Power circuits for equipment like air conditioners, geysers, and motors.
• Dedicated circuits for emergency systems like fire alarms, emergency
lighting, and elevators.
• The distribution board (DB) must be easily accessible, Installed at a
safe height. And appropriately rated to handle the total load.
• Circuit breakers, including MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) and
RCCBs (Residual Current Circuit Breakers), must be used for
overcurrent and earth fault protection.
• All electrical systems must be properly earthed as per IS 3043: Code
of Practice for Earthing.
• Use high-quality, insulated wires and cables that meet IS 694 or
equivalent standards.
• Common types include PVC-insulated cables or XLPE cables for higher
current capacity.
• Use fire-resistant cables in critical areas (e.g., stairwells, emergency
systems).
• Ensure proper clearance between electrical equipment and
combustible materials.
• Buildings must have a lightning protection system to safeguard
against lightning strikes.
• Essential systems (e.g., elevators, lighting, fire alarms) must be
connected to backup power.
• Electrical panels, switches, and outlets must be easily accessible.
• Regular maintenance and periodic testing of installations are
mandatory.
• Use energy-efficient devices and systems, such as: LED lighting, Star-
rated electrical appliances, Smart meters for energy monitoring and
control.
• Maintain detailed documentation of the electrical installation,
including, Single-line diagrams.
• Distribution Boards
