IMSA Traffic Signal Inspector Chapter 1 - Introduction

Ampacity

The maximum current, in amperes, that a conductor can carry continuously under the conditions of use without exceeding its temperature rating.

Bonded (Bonding)

Connected to establish electrical continuity and conductivity.

Bonding Jumper, Main

The connection between the grounded circuit conductor and the equipment grounding conductor at the service.

Disconnecting Means

A device (or group) by which the conductors of a circuit can be disconnected from their source.

Effective Ground-Fault Current Path

Intentionally constructed, low-impedance path intended to carry current under ground-fault conditions from the point of s ground-fault in the system to the electrical supply source that facilitates the operation of the overcurrent device(s) of ground fault detectors on high-impedance grounded systems.

Equipment

General term: fittings, devices, appliances, luminaries, apparatus, machinery, ect. in connection with an electrical installation.

Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC)

The conductive path(s) installed to connect normally non-current carrying metal parts of equipment together and to the system grounded conductor to the grounding electrode conductor, or both.

Grounded (grounding)

Connected to a ground or a conductive body that extends to the ground connection.

Grounded Conductor

What is commonly referred to as the "neutral wire" the NEC calls this the --------- conductor. Usually white in color.

Grounding Conductor

What is usually referred to as the "ground wire", the NEC and CEC call the --------- conductor. This wire is usually green or bare.

Grounding Electrode

A conducting object through which a direct connection with Earth is established.

Hand hole enclosure

An enclosure for use in underground systems, with an open or closed bottom, allowing workers to reach into, but not enter for the purpose of access to wiring systems.

Location, Damp

Locations protected from weather and not subject to saturation with water or moisture, but subject to moderate degrees of moisture.

Location, Dry

Location not normally subject to wetness. May be temporarily subjected, but not usually.

Location, Wet

Installations underground or in concrete slabs, or masonry in direct contact with earth in locations subject to saturation with water or other liquids.

Service

The conductors and equipment for delivering electric energy from the serving utility to the wiring system of the premises served.

Service Point

Point of connection between the service and the premises / customer

Ungrounded Conductor

The "hot wire(s)" NEC calls the --------. they can be many colors, but never white or green.

NEC/CEC conventions are not followed when....

Conductor insulation coding may use green for a poser wire in traffic signal applications, which is conflict with these conventions.

ATSSA

American Traffic Safety Services Association

Usual duration of temporary traffic signals

30 days or less, unless part of a larger project.

Key provisions in MUTCD for temporary traffic signals

1. Advance signing

2. Meet physical requirements of permanent signal

3. Removed when finished

4. heads covered when not in use.

Dose not detail how.

Impact attenuators

Used to absorb a colliding vehicle's kenetic energy. Requires a minimum buffer distance and truck mass.

Equipment procurement period

Usually 60-150 days after NTP

Emergency Response Time

Usually 2 hours or less

Approved Product List

Contractor need not provide submittals if using materials on this list, a certification must be provided instead.

Certification number

Number given to a product that has been pre-approved. Often it must be permanently engraved or stenciled on the product.

Shop-Drawing Submittals

Most items of a structural nature require this to be submitted and provide detailed information. Usually sealed by and engineer.

Factory Acceptance Testing

Tests conducted at the equipment suppliers facility.

Stockpiled Materials

Materials kept at the contractor's warehouse or yard. Partial payments may be granted.

Inspector recordkeeping responsibilities

1. Daily construction activities

2. Federal compliance forms

3. Testing result forms

4. Quantities installed

5. Photographs

6. Final inspection report

Daily report components

1. Location of work

2. Number of workers

3. Weather

4. Visitors

5. Quantities

6. Work performed

7. Equipment used

8. Work hours

9. Accidents/incidents

Pay Item notes

Help clarify smaller details involved in an item's work. (Disconnect may be included, or training is included)

Mobilization

Usually a lump sum and paid out in a scheduled percentage rates.

Supplemental Agreements are sometimes called...

Change orders are sometimes called...