Ecmweb 4333 207ecm30pic1
Ecmweb 4333 207ecm30pic1
Ecmweb 4333 207ecm30pic1
Ecmweb 4333 207ecm30pic1
Ecmweb 4333 207ecm30pic1

Code Violations Illustrated

July 1, 2002
As usual, never consider the following commentary associated with these photos as a formal interpretation of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Without criticizing anyone or any product, the following scenarios present us with serious electrical safety questions. Wireway covers missing A recent electrical inspection uncovered this section of metal wireway in the attic of a tall building. Not only

As usual, never consider the following commentary associated with these photos as a formal interpretation of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Without criticizing anyone or any product, the following scenarios present us with serious electrical safety questions.

Wireway covers missing

A recent electrical inspection uncovered this section of metal wireway in the attic of a tall building. Not only was the wireway missing its covers, but someone had also used the area as a trash receptacle. This would undoubtedly add to the fuel load in this space if a fire were to break out nearby. In addition, the blocks used to support the conductors weren't a recognized method of installation. Sec. 376.2 defines a metal wireway as a sheet metal trough with a hinged or removable cover used to house and protect electric cables that are laid in place after the wireway has been installed as a complete system. Installing wireways as a complete system will ensure that they're properly grounded [250.118(14)].

Work space obstruction

This metal duct is located in a working space that should be kept clear of obstructions. The minimum depth of working space in front of electrical equipment may not be less than 3 ft. In addition, the minimum headroom of working space about electrical equipment must comply with 110.26(A)(3). The height of the working space must be clear and extend from the grade, floor, or platform to the height required by 110.26(E), which cannot be less than 6½ ft for service equipment, switchboards, panelboards, or motor control centers. In addition, if the electrical equipment is taller than 6½ ft, the minimum headroom can't be less than the height of the equipment.

Strange termination

If you look close, you'll see that someone used a bent “fender washer” to fill in the extra space at the C-phase feeder conductor termination in this overcurrent protection device. In fact, even though you can't see them, the other two phases are terminated in the same fashion. This isn't a recognized method of installation and creates a serious hazard. This installation violates the rules in 110.14, which states conductors of dissimilar metals can't be intermixed in a terminal or splicing connector.

Bad connection

This installation is located over an exit door in a large auditorium where more than 200 electrical industry representatives recently attended an industry meeting. Several attendees took a picture of this liquidtight flexible metal conduit that was missing a connector. Only time will tell if this unsafe installation will still be there when the meeting reconvenes next year. The missing fitting violates basic rules related to grounding and workmanship. See 250.4 for general requirements for proper grounding and bonding.

Now you can send Code Violations Illustrated stories and photos directly to Joe Tedesco at:
Joe Tedesco
350 North Street
Boston, MA 02113
or e-mail:
[email protected]

If you mail pictures, please include the story, location, and some information about yourself — and please do not write on the front or back of your photo. Please send all digital images in JPEG format. You can send photos while visiting Joe's Web site at: www.joetedesco.com

About the Author

Joe Tedesco

Tedesco served the industry in many roles during his career. He was a director, senior electrical code instructor for National Technology Transfer, Inc. and American Trainco, Inc.. He was also a codes, standards and seminar specialist for the International Association of Electrical Inspectors and an electrical field service specialist for the National Fire Protection Association in Quincy, Mass. He ran his own business as an NEC consultant and is a Massachusetts licensed master electrician and journeyman electrician and certified electrical inspector (one and two family 2A; General 2B, and Plan Review, 2C). Tedesco also wrote articles for CEE News and EC&M (Code Violations Illustrated and What's Wrong Here?) for more than 15 years and helped launched the Moving Violations video series.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.