What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Inferior Exterior Wiring

April 19, 2018

Can you spot the Code violation(s)?

Www Ecmweb Com Sites Ecmweb com Files Code Watch 2 770

Hint: Inferior exterior wiring

Scroll down to see the answer

What you’re looking at is an underground feeder (UF) cable poking out of the bottom of this weatherproof box. It’s installed under this building’s exterior canopy. Using UF cable for this above ground location is permitted by Sec. 340.10(3). Section 225.10(18) also specifically permits UF to be used as outside wiring on the surface of buildings or other structures. However, just poking the UF into the box without the use of a cable connector is a violation of Sec. 314.17(B), which requires any raceways or cables installed with a metal box to be secured to the box. As for securing and supporting the UF, Sec. 340.10(4) directs us to the rules for NM cable in Art. 334. Per Sec. 334.10(B)(1), NMC cable would be permitted in this outdoor damp location too. Section 334.30 requires this cable to be secured within 12 in. of the box and at intervals of 4½ ft maximum. This UF cable has zero supports or securements! Installing a cable connector and using some cable supports would go a long way towards making this installation Code compliant.

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.