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What’s Wrong Here? Hint: (Jack) Hammer Time

July 23, 2015
Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

How well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn't identify? Here's your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else's work from the safety of your living room or office. It's your turn to identify the violation.

Hint: (Jack) hammer time

Find the Answer

Get the jackhammer! We’re going to need it to get inside this box.

One side of this box cover has been engulfed in concrete, making it virtually impossible to get to any splices inside unless you break up enough of the concrete in order to remove the cover. This is a violation of Sec. 314.29, which requires wiring in boxes, conduit bodies, and handholes to be accessible without needing to excavate sidewalks, paving, earth, or other material used to establish the grade.

Another concern I have is the use of EMT with this PVC box. Section 314.3 does not permit metal raceways or metal cables to be used with nonmetallic boxes unless internal bonding means are provided between all entries.

To wrap this up, I have one final concern with the use of a set-screw type EMT connector at this location. Because this was a wet location, the use of set-screw type EMT connectors is a violation of Sec. 358.42 and Sec. 314.15 because these connectors are not listed for use in this location.

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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