What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Improperly Supported Outlet Box
Hint: Improperly supported outlet box.
It may be a little difficult to notice in this photo, but the box for the duplex receptacle installed just below the ceiling of this clothing and jewelry shop is only being supported by the four NM cables connected to the box! There are no other supports for this box.
Boxes cannot be supported by NM cables. Boxes must be supported in accordance with the requirements in Sec. 314.23(A) through Sec. 314.23(H). These provisions include using nails, screws, braces, clamps, anchors, clips, fittings, support wires, flexible cords, and even certain raceways. None of the requirements in Sec. 314.23 allow the use of NM cable as the supporting means for boxes. Another problem is the lack of securing and supporting of the NM cables. Section 334.30 requires NM cables to be supported and secured by cable ties listed and identified for securement and support, listed staples, straps, hangars, or similar fittings with 12 in. of each cable entry into boxes, cabinets or fittings and at intervals not exceeding 4 ½ ft.
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.