Ecmweb 5384 011713wwhbweb
Ecmweb 5384 011713wwhbweb
Ecmweb 5384 011713wwhbweb
Ecmweb 5384 011713wwhbweb
Ecmweb 5384 011713wwhbweb

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: You're Not on the List!

Jan. 17, 2013
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: You're not on the list!

Find the Answer

Section 348.20(A) of the 2011 NEC tells us that flexible metal conduit (FMC) smaller than ½ in. is permitted only for the following five applications.

1) For enclosing motor leads.

2) Maximum of 6 ft lengths for wiring utilization equipment, listed assemblies or luminaire tap connections.

3) Manufactured wiring systems

(4) Hoistway wiring, and

5) Listed assemblies for connecting luminaire sections.

The 3/8 in. FMC in this photo is much longer than 6 ft. In fact, the FMC continues for approximately 20 ft in this installation. It was used to wire a photocell mounted on the outside corner of the building. If there is no equipment ground wire installed inside the FMC then it is also creates a violation of 250.118(5)(c), which places a 6 ft limit on using the FMC as an equipment grounding conductor.

Also, since the FMC is tie-wrapped to the electrical metallic tubing (EMT), there is yet another violation. Section 300.11(B) generally does not permit ½ in. EMT to be used as a support of other raceways.

Lastly, section 348.6 requires FMC to be listed. The FMC used for this installation is not listed.

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...

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.