Return of Code Clusters: The Many Uses of Duct Tape

Code Clusters is a fond look back at some of the most interesting and outlandish Code violations published in the pages of EC&M magazine over the past 15 years - the item below is the last in a series of ten.

Joe Tedesco

Jan. 9, 2014

2 min read

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Code Clusters is a fond look back at some of the most interesting and outlandish Code violations published in the pages of EC&M magazine over the past 15 years — the item below is the last in a series of 10. Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear your feedback! Post your thoughts in the box below.

The Many Uses of Duct Tape

All references are based on the 1999 edition of the NEC.

The “left arm” of this four-gang meter socket enclosure is the victim of a recent drive-by shooting. This equipment is supposed to comply with Sec. 373-2(a), but does the tape meet Code? Not a chance! In damp or wet locations, the NEC requires you to place or equip surface-type meter socket enclosures to prevent moisture or water from entering and accumulating within the cabinet or cutout box. Enclosures installed in wet locations shall be weatherproof. Art. 100 defines weatherproof as: “Constructed or protected so that exposure to the weather will not interfere with successful operation.” An FPN goes on to state: “Rainproof, raintight, or watertight equipment can fulfill the requirements for weatherproof where varying weather conditions other than wetness, such as snow, ice, dust, or temperature extremes, are not a factor.”

We hope you enjoyed the second trip down Memory Lane.

Part 3 of our 3-part series is now available!

Code Clusters 3: The Final Ridiculous Act