What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Short Sleeve

Dec. 20, 2017

Hint: Short sleeve

Scroll Down for the Answer

The sleeve for this NM cable seems to have come up a little short. I’m not sure why the installer chose to use this combination of equipment, but the end result is an installation that is not Code compliant.

An exception in Sec. 300.12 does permit short sections of raceways to be installed to support or protect cables without securing the raceway to the box. The exception in Sec. 300.18 allows essentially the same thing. The NM cable, however, needs to be secured to the box according to Sec. 314.17(C). The exception in 314.17(C) would allow the NM to be installed without securing it to this box, but the NM cable must then be fastened within 8 in. of the box instead of the 12 in. required by Sec. 334.30(A). I don’t see how installing NM cable in a PVC conduit sleeve could be considered “secured” or “fastened”.

Here are a few other items to consider. The unused opening of the box needs to be closed in accordance with Sec. 110.12(A). The missing receptacle cover is a violation of Sec. 314.25. Similarly, Sec. 406.6 requires receptacle faceplates to be installed so as to completely cover the box opening and seat against the mounting surface.

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.