What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Lousy Support System
Hint: a lousy support system
No matter how may EMT raceways are connected to this box ― in this case four ― the box will never be considered properly supported. Section 358.12(2) clearly states that EMT is not permitted to be used for supporting luminaires or any equipment other than conduit bodies no larger than the trade size of the EMT. The conduit body on the right side of this photo is not a problem. However, the 4-in. square box in the middle of the photo has no supports other than the EMT raceways. This is a violation. Sections 314.23(A) through (H) provide many other Code-compliant options for properly supporting boxes. Some of those options include surface mounting, structural mounting, using nails and screws, braces, framing members, support wires, and using RMC or IMC raceways that are threaded into the enclosures. None of the options include using EMT for the support of boxes. Perhaps installing an anchor or beam clamp, and then using threaded rod to support this box would be a simple solution.
About the Author
Russ LeBlancRuss 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.