The Edison Electric Light Company 1881 Letter
In 1881, Thomas Edison wrote a letter to the New York Board of Fire Underwriters, confidently proclaiming that his new Edison Electric Light Company had developed a system “absolutely free from any possible danger from fire.” At the time, the idea of safe electric lighting was still a revolutionary concept. Fire risk from gas lighting was a significant concern, and the early electrical systems faced scrutiny over their potential hazards. Edison’s promise was bold, but it also set the stage for the rigorous electrical safety standards that we uphold today.
At New York Electrical Inspection Agency, we reflect on Edison’s words with both admiration and a modern perspective. His assertion that electricity could be made “absolutely secure under all and every condition” may have been ambitious, but it laid the groundwork for an industry built on continuous safety improvements. The National Electrical Code (NEC), first published in 1897 and evolving ever since, has guided us through over a century of advancements in electrical safety, ensuring that today’s electrical systems are safer, more reliable, and more efficient than ever before.
How Far We Have Come
Edison’s direct current (DC) system, which he championed in the 1880s, was eventually overtaken by Nikola Tesla’s alternating current (AC) system, which proved to be more practical for transmitting electricity over long distances. While Edison’s dream of a perfectly safe electrical system was ahead of its time, today’s electrical infrastructure has made that vision a reality in ways he could never have imagined:
- Grounding and Circuit Protection – Early electrical systems had no grounding protection, making electrical fires and shocks more common. Today, ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) protect homes and buildings by shutting off power before a dangerous situation arises.
- Fire-Resistant Wiring – In Edison’s time, wires were insulated with materials like cloth and rubber, which were highly flammable. Modern electrical cables use non-combustible insulation, reducing the risk of electrical fires.
- Code Compliance and Inspections – In 1881, there were no formal electrical codes or inspection requirements. Today, inspectors ensure that electrical systems meet the strict standards outlined in the NEC, helping to prevent fires and electrical hazards before they occur.
- Advancements in Lighting – Edison’s incandescent lightbulbs revolutionized illumination, but they were energy-intensive and short-lived. Modern LED technology has surpassed even Edison’s expectations, offering safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting lighting solutions.
- Smart Electrical Systems – With the advent of smart homes, circuit monitoring, and automated shutdown systems, electrical safety has reached levels beyond what was conceivable in Edison’s era.
The Role of Electrical Inspectors Today
As electrical inspectors, our job is to uphold the principles that Edison first sought to achieve: a safer, more reliable electrical system. But unlike the 1880s, when testing was voluntary and self-regulated, today’s electrical safety is governed by strict codes, regulations, and rigorous inspections that protect lives and property.
- We ensure that homes and businesses comply with the latest safety standards.
- We verify that new electrical installations meet the requirements of the NEC.
- We educate property owners and contractors on best practices for electrical safety.
Edison may have believed that his system was “absolutely free from any possible danger,” but history has shown us that safety is not a one-time achievement, it is an ongoing commitment. That’s why electrical inspections remain a critical part of ensuring that the power we rely on every day is delivered safely, efficiently, and in compliance with the latest technology and regulations.
Conclusion: From Edison’s Dream to Today’s Reality
Looking back at Edison’s 1881 letter, we recognize it as a turning point in the history of electrical safety. His confidence and vision helped push the industry toward greater innovation and higher standards. Today, we stand on the shoulders of pioneers like Edison and Tesla, ensuring that electrical systems are not just safer than gas lighting, but safer than ever before.
At New York Electrical Inspection Agency, we honor that legacy by upholding the highest safety standards, because while Edison dreamed of a fire-proof electrical system, we work every day to make it a reality.