Ecmweb 25336 Code Watch 1 1
Ecmweb 25336 Code Watch 1 1
Ecmweb 25336 Code Watch 1 1
Ecmweb 25336 Code Watch 1 1
Ecmweb 25336 Code Watch 1 1

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Stolen Raceway?

Aug. 7, 2019
Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: A stolen raceway?

See answer below.

I must admit that I do not know if this box and electrical metallic tubing (EMT) was installed by an HVAC technician specifically for these pneumatic air lines, or if was stolen for this use. In either case, it’s a great opportunity for us to discuss Sec. 300.8, which strictly prohibits electrical conductors from being installed in any raceways that contain any piping, tubing, or its equivalent for air, water, steam, gas, drainage, or any other service other than electrical. Since the pneumatic air lines are already installed here, an electrician must not use this EMT for installation of any conductors. This would also include thermostat or other Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 types of control or signaling circuits, since Sec. 725.3(K) requires Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 circuits to follow the requirements found in Sec. 300.8.

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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