Hint: Flexibility failure
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The photocell installed on the box cover is controlling luminaires connected to the rigid metal conduit (RMC) extended from the box cover. Without dissembling this conduit, I would love to know how we are supposed to be able to gain access to any wires or splices inside the box, which is recessed in the wall. The installer used a short conduit body with the RMC as a surface extension from one of the holes in the cover of the weatherproof box. This is a violation of Sec. 314.22. The general rule for this section requires the use of an extension ring mounted to the box for any surface extensions. The Exception in Sec. 314.22 does allow surface extensions to be made from box cover where the cover is unlikely to fall off or become loose. However, the wiring extended from the cover must be a flexible wiring method long enough to allow removal of the cover and provide access to the inside of the box. The wiring must be arranged so that grounding continuity is not dependent upon the connection between the cover and the box. An equipment grounding conductor (EGC) should be installed.
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.