EC&M Code Conversations

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Episodes

106

Latest episode

Oct 2026

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About the show

In every episode, EC&M Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and NEC Consultant Russ LeBlanc sit down to discuss difficult-to-decipher concepts surrounding the National Electrical Code in 15 minutes or less.

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60 recent

October 22, 2026Episode 10721 min

Avoiding Common Electrical Inspection Failures

Many electrical inspection failures stem from small, preventable oversights rather than major Code violations. In this episode of Code Conversations, EC&M Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson talks with NEC expert Paul Abernathy about common inspection issues, including incomplete panel directories, blocked working spaces, and grounding and bonding deficiencies. Learn how contractors can use checklists, quality control procedures, and crew training to catch problems before inspection day, reduce costly rework, and strengthen relationships between electricians and inspectors.

October 19, 2026Episode 1066 min

Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 19 — EC&M Code Conversations Highlights

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 19" by Mark Lamendola. This is the final episode of Mark's series and concludes Art. 110 of the Code by discussing how an installation that is NEC compliant may still fail an inspection by the customer.

October 5, 2026Episode 10510 min

Important NEC Updates Involving Receptacles Used for EV Charging Equipment

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss 2026 NEC changes in Sec. 625.44 involving receptacles used for electric vehicle charging equipment.

September 23, 2026Episode 10420 min

Ensuring Job Site Readiness for Electrical Inspections

What does it really mean for an electrical project to be “ready for inspection”? In this episode of Code Conversations, host Ellen Parson talks with Paul Abernathy about inspection readiness, job-site preparation, and the importance of contractor-led quality control. They discuss common issues that can derail an inspection, how scheduling pressures can lead contractors to call for inspections too early, and practical steps electricians and contractors can take to make the process smoother. Abernathy also shares a simple checklist of items to review before an inspector arrives, from panel directories and working clearances to grounding and bonding, wiring methods and documentation.

September 21, 2026Episode 1034 min

Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 18 — EC&M Code Conversations Highlights

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 18" by Mark Lamendola. This episode continues with Art. 110 of the Code and discusses the Part III requirements for systems operating over 1,000VAC or 1500VDC (nominal).

September 7, 2026Episode 10210 min

New NEC Rules Regarding Power Control Systems (PCS)

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss 2026 NEC changes related to a new requirement regarding power control systems (PCS). Russ explains the new rules for PCS added by Sec. 120.7 and what electrical contractors need to know about this requirement.

August 27, 2026Episode 10117 min

Inspection Is Not Your Quality Control Program

Is the inspector really responsible for finding what's wrong with your electrical installation? In the latest Code Conversations, Paul Abernathy sits down with Ellen Parson and explains why electrical contractors should perform their own quality-control check before calling for an inspection — and how a simple pre-inspection walkthrough can prevent failed inspections, save time, and build better relationships with inspectors.

August 17, 2026Episode 1006 min

Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 17 — EC&M Code Conversations Highlights

In EC&M Code Conversations highlights, Ellen Parson, editor-in-chief of EC&M, is highlighting some of the most popular Code content from the magazine and website, but this time brought to you in audio form, in case you missed it. In this episode, we’re featuring "Understanding General Requirements of the NEC, Part 17" by Mark Lamendola. This episode continues with Art. 110 of the Code and discusses the requirements for systems operating over 1,000VAC or 1500VDC (nominal).

August 3, 2026Episode 9910 min

Section 110.16 Arc-Flash Hazard Marking, Other Than Dwelling Units: The Biggest Code Change of 2026?

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson and Code Consultant Russ LeBlanc discuss 2026 NEC changes related to an expanded requirement regarding arc flash hazard marking in other than dwelling units. Russ explains the major expansion to Sec. 110.16 and what changed with the arc-flash labeling requirements. He also explains why he thinks this might be the biggest change in the 2026 NEC.

July 22, 2026Episode 9818 min

Meet Paul Abernathy, EC&M’s Newest Code Expert

In this episode of EC&M Code Conversations, Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson sits down with Paul Abernathy, EC&M’s newest NEC expert. Paul is the executive director and founder member of the Certified Master Electrical Code Professional (CMECP) program administered by the Electrical Code Academy, Inc., where he is CEO, president, and chairman of the board. He has served the electrical industry since 1986 in a variety of capacities, from licensed electrician to owner/operator of electrical contracting and electrical design/code consulting firms. He is a National Electrical Code expert, and he currently serves on NFPA 70 Code-Making Panels 5 and 17. He will be covering the latest NEC developments in regular contributions including Inspector Intel in the print magazine, monthly podcast episodes with Ellen, and monthly videos available on the EC&M YouTube channel and website. In this first episode, Paul discusses his background and previews what NEC content listeners and readers can look forward to. Listen now!

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