Ecmweb 5292 Cw1web
Ecmweb 5292 Cw1web
Ecmweb 5292 Cw1web
Ecmweb 5292 Cw1web
Ecmweb 5292 Cw1web

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Don't Blow a Gasket

Dec. 6, 2012
Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

How well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn't identify? Here's your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else's work from the safety of your living room or office. It's your turn to identify the violation.

Hint: Don't blow a gasket.

Find the Answer

The rusty cover is one indication of the problems with this installation. In accordance with the deteriorating agents requirements outlined in 110.11, equipment shall be permitted to be located in damp or wet locations only if identified for use in the operating environment. The 4-in. octagonal box cover used here is not specifically designed for this wet location.

In accordance with the requirements of 300.6 [Protection Against Corrosion and Deterioration], "raceways, cable trays, cablebus, auxiliary gutters, cable armor, boxes, cable sheathing, cabinets, elbows, couplings, fittings, supports, and support hardware shall be of materials suitable for the environment in which they are to be installed." As further clarified in 300.6(A), equipment such as ferrous metal boxes, fittings, supports, support hardware and raceways, "shall be suitably protected against corrosion inside and outside (except threads at joints) by a coating of approved corrosion-resistant material." Section 314.15 specifically requires the use of boxes, conduit bodies, and fittings "listed for use in wet locations" where installed in wet locations. 314.15 also requires, boxes, conduit bodies, and fittings installed in damp or wet locations to "be placed or equipped so as to prevent moisture from entering or accumulating within the box, conduit body, or fitting." The lack of a gasketed-type cover for this box would allow moisture and water to enter the enclosure, and cause damage to the enclosed conductors and any splices.

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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.

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