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89 included a number of references to that effect in several published articles, copies of which were submitted for the record, and portions of which he quoted, indicating the difficulties relating to costs varying from one location to another, due to lack of uniformity in the codes. He felt the amendments would provide minimum safety standards, while permitting options on choice of electrical systems, and his roup urges adoption of the amendments. He referred to the 'Douglas Commission" report which stated 87% of the communities in the natior)4ith over 5000 population authorize use of non- metallic sheathed method and flexible cable. Mr. Creighton Schwan, Manufacturers Representative, National Electrical Manufacturers Association, advised this was a trade association having 500 member companies and contractors, that he had been supervising Electrical Inspector for San Mateo County. He stated the National Electrical Code was the only one with national acceptance, and was periodically updated, requiring allparties who have an interest to participate in setting standards. Local codes, he said, that are more restrictive, deprive the public of a free choice and increase installation costs without commensurate increase in safety. He referred to the exhibits in the report, including letters from National Fire Protection Association, Pacific Fire Rating Bureau, which indicate acceptability of non-metallic sheathed cable, assuming installation according to National Electrical Code requirements. With proper installation and good inspection reasonable safety is assured, and without them the codes cannot provide safety. He concluded that uniformity was the goal supported by NEMA, and asked that Council accept the recommendations of the Chief Build- ing Official and Ordinance Review Committee, Mr. Joe Ross, 1359 Edgewood Road, expressed the opinion that / Romex could cause a fire more readily than the metallic race- ways, and that while it is widely used throughout the country, the National Code provides absolute minimum requirements. He also made the point that replacing damaged wiring can be done more easily, and in the event appliances requiring greater voltage is installed, heavier wiring can be substituted, if metal raceways are used, rather than the non-metallic sheathed cable method. Mr. Mike Collins, 1006 Delaware, San Mateo, a member of Local #617, stated he took pride in locally restrictive code, and would prefer to have standards upgraded rather than lowered, particularly in a community where the necessity doesn't exist. He hoped Council would not approve the amendments. Ernest Gendotti, 2610 Carson Street, Redwood City, commented on the danger from shock which could result from driving a nail and hitting4 hot wire. Mr. Ceverha and Mr. Blackley were given the opportunity to summarize their respective positions, and Council thoroughly reviewed the presentations. It was brought out by the Chief Building Official that the recommendations included use of non-metallic sheath in wood frame dwelling units of all types and not restricted to single-family or duplex units. Councilman Keckley noted that in the meetings of the Ordinance Review Committee, it was apparent the Chief Building Official tried to present both sides of the question, and that he was strongly in favor of standardization. It was felt at the time of adoption of the Uniform Building Code that something should be done on the Electrical Code. In further discussion, it was agreed that a thorough case had been offered to Council by both sides. It was indicated that metallic raceways appeared to be the superior method, and therefore preferable, although it appeared Romex might be acceptable under certain circumstances.