Ecmweb 16243 Nec Code Violations Sept 2017 Pr
Ecmweb 16243 Nec Code Violations Sept 2017 Pr
Ecmweb 16243 Nec Code Violations Sept 2017 Pr
Ecmweb 16243 Nec Code Violations Sept 2017 Pr
Ecmweb 16243 Nec Code Violations Sept 2017 Pr

Illustrated Catastrophes: Big Box Problems

Sept. 20, 2017
More Code catastrophes uncovered and corrected in these faulty installations

All references are based on the 2017 edition of the NEC.

Big Box Problems

Bill Gatewood was kind enough to share this photo with us. According to him, there are eight 6 AWG wires bulging out of this box. Table 314.16(B) specifies that each 6 AWG conductor would need at least 5 cubic inches of volume in the box. That equates to a total of 40 cubic inches needed to properly accommodate these wires. Table 314.16(A) notes that a 411/16-in. × 21/8-in. box would be big enough to accommodate eight 6 AWG wires. However, a 411/16-in. × 1½-in. box would only be able to accommodate five 6 AWG wires. An extension ring could have been used here to increase the overall volume of this enclosure.

Another obvious problem is the lack of a box cover. It was most likely not installed due to the bulging wires. In any case, the missing cover is a violation of Sec. 314.25, which requires a cover, canopy, faceplate, or some other type of covering to be installed on the box to complete the installation.

Although it’s hiding in the background, it appears that the equipment ground is just spliced without being bonded to the box. If so, this violates Sec. 250.148(C), which requires a connection be made from the equipment grounding conductors (EGCs) to the metal box.

Reckless Abandonment

I spotted this mess on the ceiling, which appears to be some temporary wiring abandoned in place. Thankfully, none of this was energized.

As specified in Sec. 90.2(A), temporary wiring installations are supposed to follow the same rules for permanent wiring unless Art. 590 modifies the rules. Ironically, there are no rules in Chapters 1 through 4 for permanent installations that state equipment-like boxes or wiring like NM cables must be removed when the circuit has been discontinued. However, if we look at Sec. 11.1.2.3 of NFPA 1 Fire Code, it states, “Permanent wiring abandoned in place shall be tagged or otherwise identified at its termination and junction points as ‘Abandoned in Place’ or removed from all accessible areas and insulated from contact with other live electrical wiring or devices.” For temporary wiring, NEC Sec. 590.3(D) requires temporary wiring to be immediately removed upon completion of construction or other purpose for which the temporary wiring was installed.

For practical purposes, abandoned wiring or equipment should be removed. Just imagine what would happen if old circuits and equipment were simply abandoned in place repeatedly. Eventually, there wouldn’t be room for us to install new wiring.

About the Author

Russ LeBlanc | Owner

Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.

Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.

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...

Don't Let Burn-Through Threaten Another Data Center or Utility Project

Get the No Burn-Through Elbow eGuide to learn many reasons why Champion Fiberglass elbows will enhance your data center and utility projects today.

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.