All references are based on the 2020 edition of the NEC.
Which Way Is Up?
This installer apparently did not know which way was up when installing these weatherproof covers. They are designed to be installed so the cover flips “up” rather than being “left” to open. In this sideways position, these covers may not be able to keep moisture and water from entering the enclosures, potentially causing damage to any devices installed in the boxes. Failure to install and use listed or labeled equipment in accordance with the product instructions is a violation of Sec. 110.3(B).
For switches in wet locations, Sec. 404.4(A) requires weatherproof enclosures to comply with Sec. 312.2. In other words, the enclosures must be installed to prevent the entrance of moisture or water. For 15A and 20A, 125V or 250V receptacles installed in wet locations, Sec. 406.9(B)(1) requires enclosures to be weatherproof with an attachment plug inserted or removed. For other types of receptacles, Sec. 406.9(B)(2)(a) requires unattended receptacles to have a weatherproof enclosure with an attachment plug inserted or removed. Section 406.9(B)(2)(b) requires attended receptacles to have a weatherproof enclosure when the attachment plug is removed. Regardless of the types of devices installed in these boxes, the covers are not installed correctly.
A Not-So-Handy Box Installation
Using a “handy box” is a convenient way to enclose some conductor splices. Leaving that box floating in the air is not so cool. In fact, leaving a box unsecured in this manner violates all the requirements found in Sec. 314.23. Boxes and other enclosures within the scope of Art. 314 must be supported with any of the methods permitted by Sec. 314.23(A) through (H). Some of these methods include: securing the box directly to the building surface; attaching the box to a structural member using nails, screws, or braces; mounting the box in a finished surface using clamps, anchors, or other fittings designed for the purpose; securing the box to the framing members or support wires for suspended ceilings; and — in very specific situations — conduit threaded into the box can sometimes be used for support of a box. Using electrical metallic tubing (EMT) and a metal-clad (MC) cable whip to support the box is not permitted. Section 358.12(2) prohibits EMT from being used to support luminaires or other equipment except conduit bodies. I would also point out the lack of support for the MC whips. For cables with four or fewer 10 AWG or smaller conductors, Sec. 330.30(B) requires MC cable to be secured within 12 in. of each box or cable termination.
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.