Ecmweb 8075 3 3 16wwhpromo
Ecmweb 8075 3 3 16wwhpromo
Ecmweb 8075 3 3 16wwhpromo
Ecmweb 8075 3 3 16wwhpromo
Ecmweb 8075 3 3 16wwhpromo

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Let’s NOT Do the Limbo

March 3, 2016
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: Let’s NOT do the limbo.

Find the Answer

I spotted this dangling service on my drive home from work one night. The service drop wires and the SE cable for this two-family dwelling’s 120/240V service were hanging just a few feet off of the ground, dangerously positioned where you could do the “live wire limbo.”

The point of attachment for this overhead service is required to provide the minimum clearances required by Sec. 230.24. The lowest permitted point for the drip loops of this service entrance cable or any overhead service conductors is 10 ft above grade, as required by Sec. 230.24(B)(1). As per Sec. 230.24(B)(2), that 10-ft height would get increased to 12 ft if these overhead wires were located over a driveway.

As required by Sec. 230.27, the means of attachment for overhead service conductors shall be fittings identified for use with service conductors. As per Sec. 230.51(A), the SE cable is required to be secured within 12 in. of the weatherhead and also within 12 in. of the meter socket, with other supports spaced no further than 30 in. apart. This cable had on one clip holding it up — and that one clip was ready to pop off due to all the weight and strain being place upon it.

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.