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What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Two Connectors Are Better Than One

July 24, 2014
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: Two connectors are better than one

Find the Answer

One of EC&M’s loyal readers, Gary Hillis, was kind enough to share this photo with us. Apparently, this installer wanted to make doubly sure this cable was connected to the box, so he installed two different connectors. Unfortunately, neither is doing a very good job of securing the cable to the box. What we end up with are violations of several sections of the 2014 NEC.

First of all, 314.17(B) requires a raceway or cable installed with metal boxes or conduit bodies to be secured to the metal box or conduit body. Section 300.10 requires the electrical continuity of metal cables to be ensured by metallically joining the cable armor to the metal enclosure to form one continuous electrical conductor and to be connected so as to provide effective electrical continuity. That obviously did not happen here.

The missing receptacle cover creates a shock hazard by leaving energized terminals exposed. This is a violation of Sec. 110.27(A), since those terminals are energized at more than 50V — and could be accidentally contacted. The missing cover also violates the requirements of Sec. 314.25, which requires a cover or faceplate to be installed on boxes for a completed installation. The bottom mounting screw for the receptacle appears to have been replaced with a hex-head screw, which could also be a violation of 406.5 if it is not a 6-32 threaded screw.

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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