How well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn’t identify? Here’s your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else’s work from the safety of your living room or office. Can you identify the specific Code violation(s) in this photo? Note: Submitted comments must include specific references from the 2020 NEC.

Hint: Don’t get too attached to this service.

February Winners

Our three winners this month were: James Smith, a senior maintenance specialist with Georgia Power Co. in Juliette, Ga.; Tony Durr, a reader from Katy, Texas; and Alan Pech, an employee of Jenkisons Boardwalk/Asbury Park Electric in Red Bank, N.J. They all correctly identified the violations with this broken keyless lampholder.

I spotted this mess on a recent visit to Key West. This installation has several problems. Section 314.23(A) requires surface-mounted boxes to be “rigidly and securely fastened in place.” In this installation, the box is being supported by the PVC conduit. Section 352.12(B) prohibits PVC conduit from supporting luminaires or other equipment such as boxes. Another problem is the incorrect type of lampholder that was used. Section 410.96 requires lampholders installed in wet locations to be listed for use in wet locations. In damp locations, lampholders can be listed for use in either damp or wet locations. This broken lampholder is hanging by the wires, creating a serious safety concern. It violates Sec. 110.13(B), which prohibits broken or damaged parts that can have an adverse affect on the safe operation of equipment.

The key to success here is to secure that box and install the correct lamp fixture.

‘Tell Them What They’ve Won...’

Using the 2020 NEC, correctly identify the Code violation(s) in this month’s photo — in 200 words or less — and you could win an Arlington Industries FLBT4400SS countertop box kit, which includes a stainless steel trap door cover and a 20A decorator-style, tamper-resistant receptacle. E-mail your response, including your name and mailing address, to [email protected], and Russ will select three winners (excluding manufacturers and prior winners) at random from the correct submissions. Note that submissions without an address will not be eligible to win.