component2/iStock/Getty Images Plus
Ecmweb 24936 Conduit Gettyimages 985940932
Ecmweb 24936 Conduit Gettyimages 985940932
Ecmweb 24936 Conduit Gettyimages 985940932
Ecmweb 24936 Conduit Gettyimages 985940932
Ecmweb 24936 Conduit Gettyimages 985940932

Code Quiz: Bonding & Grounding Requirements

June 13, 2019
A quick question on metal conduit and grounding conductors.

Question: Under which of the following conditions would a run of electrical metallic tubing (EMT) with compression fittings require an equipment grounding conductor (EGC) to be installed with the circuit conductors?

  1. EMT installed along a bar joist supplying high-bay luminaires in a warehouse
  2. EMT installed within a metal stud wall supplying receptacles
  3. EMT installed outdoors on a roof supplying a roof top HVAC unit
  4. EMT installed on the surface of a masonry wall

See the answer below.

Answer: C.     EMT installed outdoors on a roof supplying a roof top HVAC unit

Explanation: The 2017 NEC added Sec. 440.9, which requires outdoor portions of metal raceways installed on a roof supplying multi-motor and combination-load equipment to contain a wire type EGC unless the metal raceway utilizes threaded fittings. This requirement is intended to maintain the continuity of the equipment grounding path in the event the EMT becomes separated at a non-threaded fitting.

Lupacchino is a senior design engineer with Gaylor Electric, Inc. in Noblesville, Ind. and serves as an alternate on NEC Code-Making Panel No. 3. He is currently licensed in more than 80 jurisdictions. He can be reached at [email protected].

About the Author

John Lupacchino | Senior Design Engineer

John began his career in electrical construction as an apprentice and worked his way through the trade. He is currently licensed in more than 80 jurisdictions. With more than 35 years of experience, he now plays a vital role in Gaylor Electric’s Engineering Department, where he serves as a senior design engineer. With a focus on design engineering, quality assurance, and code compliance, he has earned the highest level of respect from industry professionals alike. John currently serves as an alternate on NFPA 70 Code Making Panel No. 3. In addition, he enjoys sharing his electrical knowledge through education. As an Associated Builders and Contractors instructor, he continues to help grow a new generation of high-performing construction leaders.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Don't Let Burn-Through Threaten Another Data Center or Utility Project

Get the No Burn-Through Elbow eGuide to learn many reasons why Champion Fiberglass elbows will enhance your data center and utility projects today.

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.