Ecmweb 20407 Wwh Code Watch 2 770
Ecmweb 20407 Wwh Code Watch 2 770
Ecmweb 20407 Wwh Code Watch 2 770
Ecmweb 20407 Wwh Code Watch 2 770
Ecmweb 20407 Wwh Code Watch 2 770

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: UF Cable Sandwich

June 21, 2018
Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: UF cable sandwich

Scroll down to see the answer

The use of UF cable on the exterior surface of buildings or structures is permitted by Sec. 225.10(18) and Sec. 334.10(3) of the NEC. If the cable is exposed to physical damage it must be protected in accordance with Sec. 225.20 and the requirements for service cables in Sec. 230.50(B)(1). The latter section permits the use of raceways such as rigid metal conduit (RMC), intermediate metal conduit (IMC), Schedule 80 PVC, reinforced thermosetting resin conduit (RTRC) or other approved means to provide protection for the UF cable. While UF in the photo is probably not installed in an area requiring it to have protection from physical damage, the installer could have done a better job of choosing a method of connecting it to the luminaire and the surface-mounted box. This cable is simply sandwiched between the luminaire mounting canopy and the edge of the box. This method of attachment violates Sec. 314.17(B) since the cable is not secured to the box. Pinched wires could become a shock and fire hazard. This method is also not the best way to keep moisture and rain out of the box, as required by Sec. 314.15.

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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