EDITORIAL
Have you ever
tried to change someone’s opinion, or worse, their attitude?
It’s a near-impossible task, one we might well try to avoid.
Here are two topics worthy of your consideration: Arc fault
circuit interrupters and politicians. These two are not related,
but the challenges are comparable.
The August ’07 NEC Digest contains an article “Getting the
Public to Accept AFCIs Is a Challenge.” Indeed it is, as well as
trying to convince electricians. (It’s us they call, whether a
“trip” is real or false.) Then try to find and subsequently bill
for the hours required to locate the source. Yet the article
quotes the Electrical Safety Foundation International’s website,
“…the use of new AFCI technology could prevent 50 to 75% of
fires caused by dangerous electrical arcs…” By the way, Vermont
began requiring AFCIs in new construction on single phase
125-volt 15 and 20 amp circuits in 2001. The article says the US
Consumer Products Safety Commission recommends that “…homes
(that) have aluminum wiring upgrade to AFCIs.’
Now, just try to change the opinion of those who make the
decision!
Speaking of decision-makers, How ‘bout those decision-makers in
Nassau? According to a Newsday article, 9/9/07, “Feeling a
disconnect,” Verizon FIOS TV service was mistakenly installed in
Great Neck area homes bordering North Hempstead. (Great Neck has
not yet come to a franchise agreement with Verizon, after two
years.)
When we represent SCECA members, we encounter opposition from
political decision-makers who may have other priorities or
special interests in mind. (Witness Oyster Bay’s recent
legislation for contractor work requirements on building
complexes over 100,000 square feet.) Readers are reminded to
renew membership and bring a friend. More details, Sept. General
Mtg.
|
