Ecmweb 25075 20190627 Wwh Code Watch 1
Ecmweb 25075 20190627 Wwh Code Watch 1
Ecmweb 25075 20190627 Wwh Code Watch 1
Ecmweb 25075 20190627 Wwh Code Watch 1
Ecmweb 25075 20190627 Wwh Code Watch 1

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Hard-Pressed for Hard-Wiring Correctness

June 27, 2019
Can you spot the Code violation in this photo?

Hint: hard-pressed for hard-wiring correctness.

Scroll down for the answer

Using flexible cord as a substitute for fixed wiring methods is a violation of Sec. 400.12(1). This emergency light battery unit (EBU) is permitted to be cord-and-plug connected as permitted by Sec. 700.12(F)(2)(2) provided the cord does not exceed 3 ft in length. Using a flexible cord without a cord-cap connection to a receptacle, is a violation for this installation.

Section 400.10 permits using flexible cords and flexible cables for 11 different types of applications including, but not limited to wiring of pendants, luminaires, portable equipment, prevention of vibration or noise, moving parts and frequently changed utilization equipment. Using flexible cords or cables for hard-wiring of permanently installed battery packs is not on the list.

The connectors used on the flexible cord may not be the correct type of fitting either. They appear to be MC, AC or NM connectors. Section 300.15 requires fittings and connectors to be used only with the wiring methods for which they are specifically designed and listed. Misusing listed fittings would also violate Sec. 110.3(B).

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.

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