What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Wrong Choice of Wiring Methods
Hint: Wrong choice of wiring methods.
A close look here will reveal an MC cable installed on the underside of this exterior deck. The MC cable is connected to the round weatherproof cover on the weatherproof box. The MC cable then runs along the building just above the bundle of CATV wires and continues over to the next deck. The area underneath the deck would probably be considered a damp location, but the gap between the two decks may be a wet location. Section 330.10(A)(11) does permit MC cable to be installed in damp or wet locations but only where a jacket is provided over the metallic covering, and only if the cable has a metallic cover impervious to moisture, or a moisture-impervious jacket is provided under the metal covering, or the insulated conductors under the metallic covering are listed for use in wet locations. There is no jacket covering this metal cable, so this is not the right type of MC cable for this location. MC cable having a PVC jacket is available and would be permitted in wet and damp locations.
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.