Hint: Communications breakdown
Communication circuit cables are not permitted to be secured to the exterior of surface metal raceways or any raceways for that matter. Section 805.134(B) clearly states, “communication wires and cables shall not be strapped, taped, or attached by any means to the exterior of any raceway as a means of support.” For Class 2 or Class 3 circuit conductors, Sec. 725.143 also prohibits these cables from being “strapped, taped, or attached by any means to the exterior of any conduit or other raceway as a means of support.” Securing the power supply cord to the raceway and using the cord as a substitute for fixed wiring of the structure is a violation of Sec. 400.12. Section 300.11(C)(1) permits raceways to support raceways, cables, or other nonelectric equipment “where the raceway or means of support is identified as a means of support.” To the best of my knowledge, surface metal raceway is not identified for this purpose.
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.