Code Quiz of Day

Enclosures Installed in Damp and Wet Locations

March 13, 2015

Article 312 covers the installation and construction specifications of cabinets, cutout boxes and meter socket enclosures.

Mike Holt

Surface-type cabinets, cutout boxes, and meter socket enclosures in damp or wet locations shall be mounted so there is at least ______ in. airspace between the enclosure and the wall or supporting surface.

a) 1/16
b) 1/4
c) 1 1/4
d) 6

See answer and applicable Code reference

The correct answer is: b) 1/4

Article 312 covers the installation and construction specifications of cabinets, cutout boxes and meter socket enclosures. As noted in the first sentence of Sec. 312.2, "In damp or wet locations, surface-type enclosures within the scope of this Article shall be placed or equipped so as to prevent moisture or water from entering and accumulating within the cabinet or cutout box, and shall be mounted so there is at least 1/4-in. airspace between the enclosure and the wall or other supporting surface."

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.