All references are based on the 2014 edition of the NEC.
Stop Making Waves
At first glance, I thought this was an installation of flexible cord. However, upon closer examination, I realized this was actually a failed PVC pipe run. The installer did not install expansion fittings anywhere along this run. As a result, we end up with this failed and precariously hanging installation. These pipes are in danger of falling right onto the pedestrians walking below! The pipes have also separated at several couplings and at some of the box connectors. Water can now enter directly into the pipes and boxes, which exposes the conductors and connections to an increased possibility of water damage and corrosion.
These problems may have been avoided if the installer had properly installed expansion fittings as required by Sec. 300.7(B) and Sec. 352.44. The length change caused by thermal expansion and contraction of this pipe run certainly exceeded ¼ in. between the securely mounted boxes. When this happens, Sec. 352.44 specifies that expansion fittings must be used to accommodate this change in length and to help prevent the pipe run from self-destructing. Once the pipe starts to bend and twist from expansion and contraction, it’s only a matter of time before some clips snap off, and the self destruction snowballs into a disaster.
Like the Sword of Damocles
This luminaire is dangerously dangling by its wires and putting the people below it in harm’s way. There are other problems as well, but let’s focus on the luminaire first. It is no longer securely supported, as required by Sec. 410.30(A), and should be removed from service. The broken support knuckle will also allow water to enter directly into the fixture, which could cause it to short circuit and trip the breaker. This would most likely knock out all of the lighting in this area.
I also question the support methods used for the box attached at the end of the pipe. Section 314.23(F) generally requires boxes supporting luminaires to be supported by two conduits threaded into the box, with the conduits being secured within 18 in. of the box. Under very specific conditions, Exception No. 2 does permit one unbroken length of RMC or IMC to support a box used for luminaire support. However, this installation does not follow those specific rules. This entire pipe and fixture assembly is screwed into a box cover that is just not designed to handle the weight, leverage, and torque that could be applied by this installation.