What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Communication Breakdown
The weight of all these communication circuits is tearing the siding off the side of the building at the point of attachment. I’m not sure if the customer owns these wires, or if the utility company does, but in any case, it makes for a great photo opportunity and a Code discussion. Section 800.44(D) requires overhead communication cables and CATV coaxial cables between buildings or structures, including the supports or attachment fixtures, to have sufficient strength to withstand the loads to which they are subjected. In this case, the attachment fixture was secured only to the siding rather than to a structural member of the building resulting in the siding pulling away from the building. If this installation is not repaired soon, serious damage could result to the building as well as these communication cables. As it is right now, rain, snow, and ice can enter the building through the gaping hole.
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.
