Hint: wrapped around your finger
See the answer below.
When it comes to mixing power wires with Class 2 circuit conductors, it’s important to remember to not get too “wrapped up” in your work. This installer forgot to maintain separation between the black and white 120V branch-circuit conductors entering the enclosure from the right side, and the red and black Class 2 circuit conductors. In fact, the red and black conductors are wrapped around the power conductors.
This installation violates Sec. 725.136, which requires the two different types of circuits to be kept separate from each other. While they’re both allowed to be in the same enclosure, Sec. 725.136(D) requires a minimum separation of ¼ in. to be maintained between the power conductors and the Class 2 circuit conductors. Another option would be to have some type of “barrier” installed between the two circuits, as permitted by Sec. 725.136(B). There are also a few other options permitted by Sec. 725.136 for maintaining separation between the different circuit types, but the installer here chose not to follow any of those rules.
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.