What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Rats Make Neater Nests

Sept. 23, 2021

Think you know how this violates the NEC?

Hint: Rats make neater nests

Wow! What a mess. This bundle of joy is commonly referred to as a “rat's nest” by electricians who prefer high quality, neat work. I think some of the lengths of wire can be cut off without causing any problems. In fact, it would help a great deal for making this neater and safer. Right now, the splices are flying in free air when they should be inside the junction boxes as specified in Sec. 300.15. Installing single conductors without being part of a recognized Chapter 3 wiring method is a violation of Sec. 300.3(A). The unsupported MC and AC cables violate Sec. 330.30 and Sec. 320.30 respectively. Covers must be installed on these boxes as specified in Sec. 314.25. The metal raceways connected to the PVC junction box do not comply with Sec. 314.3 and are not bonded or grounded per either of the two exceptions to this rule. I think it may be time to call the exterminator and eliminate this nest of violations!

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.