What type of systems does Article 701 focus on?

Article 701 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifically addresses Legally Required Standby Systems. These systems are mandated to ensure that critical operations or functions continue without interruption during a power outage or failure of the normal power supply.

Legally Required Standby Systems are crucial for facilities where safety and operational continuity are not just important but mandated by law or regulation. This could include hospitals, emergency service facilities, and other critical infrastructure that must remain operational in adverse conditions.

Understanding this concept is vital because it distinguishes these systems from Optional Standby Systems (covered in a different article), which are not legally required and are typically designed for convenience rather than safety. The designation and classification within the NEC serve to ensure that electrical installations provide the necessary level of reliability and safety as dictated by their intended use and regulatory requirements.