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: on shaky ground
Find the Answer
The first problem I will point out is the fact that the flexible metal conduit (FMC) has become disconnected from the connector and tape was used to try and hold it back together. This is a violation of Sec. 300.10, since metal raceways and enclosures must be metallically joined together to form a continuous electrical conductor. The FMC must also be connected to the fitting and the enclosure in order to provide effective electrical continuity. This lack of continuity creates a violation of Sec. 250.4(A)(5), since there is no longer an effective ground-fault current path. This can greatly increase the risk of shock and fire.
Since motors vibrate, FMC used to connect motors should be provided with an equipment grounding/bonding conductor of the wire type in order to be in compliance with Sec. 250.118(5)(d). This FMC only contains a black and white wire. There is no equipment grounding conductor installed.
Lastly, Sec. 348.30 requires FMC to be secured within 12 in. of each conduit termination. Where flexibility is needed, however, Exception No. 2 allows longer lengths to be unsupported, but since this is 3/8 in. FMC, then Exception No. 2 is not applicable. Therefore, this FMC is not properly supported.
