Ecmweb 17094 11 16 17wwhweb 0
Ecmweb 17094 11 16 17wwhweb 0
Ecmweb 17094 11 16 17wwhweb 0
Ecmweb 17094 11 16 17wwhweb 0
Ecmweb 17094 11 16 17wwhweb 0

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: PVC Problems on the Pier

Nov. 16, 2017
Code Violation PVC Problem

Hint: PVC problems on the pier

Scroll Down to See the Answer

I spotted this broken PVC conduit at a pier in South Carolina. The cable inside the conduit is UF cable, so at least it is permitted by Sec. 555.13(A)(1) to be used in a wet location. Section 340.10(3) recognizes that UF is permitted in wet locations. PVC conduit is also allowed in wet locations per Sec. 352.10(D). However, PVC conduit installed exposed in areas where subject to physical damage must be of a type identified for that use. Schedule 80 PVC conduit should have been used at this location to help avoid the type of damage we can see in the photo. For marinas, boatyards and docking facilities, Sec. 555.13(B)(5) similarly requires PVC conduit “suitable for the location” to be installed to protect the wiring above the decks of piers. Section 110.12(B) prohibits damaged parts that may affect safe operation or mechanical strength of the equipment. I think it’s obvious from the photo that the safe operation and mechanical strength of this installation has been severely compromised.

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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