For over 82 years Irby has been providing top quality products and exceptional services to meet the everyday needs of our commercial, industrial, contractor and utility customers. Whether those requirements are the results of storm related emergency power outages or new products needed to meet code changes, Irby has always been there. From one branch that started in Jackson, Mississippi in 1926, to one of the largest electrical distributors in the U.S. and, as a division of Sonepar, the largest electrical distributor in the world, Irby continues to be the source for top-quality, reliable products from the best suppliers and the provider of solutions to meet your changing needs.

In this issue of Irby Circuit you will find an article on Irby’s High Voltage Testing Lab that offers a wide variety of services including rubber glove testing, tools and services, and the latest in arc flash and flame retardant clothing needs. This article will also provide you with valuable information regarding the HV value model with a three-layered approach to electrical safety and protection.

We bring you the top NEC Changes for 2008 as the feature article for this issue. Learn more about important emergency response issues with articles that will help you get prepared as we enter into the hurricane season, including emergency disaster preparation and portable power; as well as valuable information related to fire stop products, PVC repair systems, new twist ties and the latest hot/dry wet stick.

I am pleased to share with you the news of our latest acquisition. On July 1, Irby acquired Equity Utility Services Company of Marietta, Georgia.

Equity has served the utility market in Georgia for 42 years and is a welcome addition to our Utility group. Through this acquisition, Irby has cemented their place as one of the largest utility distributors in the country and the largest in the South.

As always, I am very interested in what we can do for you, our valued customer. If you have a request on subjects that you would like us to address in future issues or suggestions on what we can do to make the Irby Circuit more meaningful and useful to you, please don’t hesitate to contact me at wigton@irby.com. And, again thanks for your business.