What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Lousy Liquidtight Installation

Sept. 11, 2019

Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Ecmweb Com Sites Ecmweb com Files Code Watch 1 2

Hint: Lousy liquidtight installation

See the answer below.

Apparently, whomever installed this liquidtight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) did not believe in using support clips. I did not see one clip or other supporting means used anywhere on this installation. Per Sec. 350.30(A), LFMC must be securely fastened within 12 in. of each box or other conduit termination, and further supported and secured at intervals not exceeding 4½ ft. There are four exceptions to this general rule, but none of them are applicable to this installation. I’m not sure that burying LFMC under large rocks is a good idea either as it may violate Sec. 350.12(1), which prohibits LFMC from being used where it may be subject to physical damage. I suppose we could argue that this LFMC must also be listed and marked for direct burial in accordance with Sec. 350.10(3), since a portion of it is buried under those rocks.

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.