Ecmweb 2019 205ecwb3001
Ecmweb 2019 205ecwb3001
Ecmweb 2019 205ecwb3001
Ecmweb 2019 205ecwb3001
Ecmweb 2019 205ecwb3001

Code Q&A

May 1, 2002
Knowing how important NEC issues are to our readers, we're introducing a new online Code Q&A column. Updated weekly, visit this link for answers to your latest Code questions and concerns. Q. Can flexible metal conduit or surface metal raceways be used for branch circuits in patient care areas where wiring must be provided with a ground path for fault current? A. Flexible metal conduit in lengths

Knowing how important NEC issues are to our readers, we're introducing a new online Code Q&A column. Updated weekly, visit this link for answers to your latest Code questions and concerns.

Q. Can flexible metal conduit or surface metal raceways be used for branch circuits in patient care areas where wiring must be provided with a ground path for fault current?

A. Flexible metal conduit in lengths not exceeding 6 ft can be used for branch circuit wiring in patient care areas of a health care facility if the circuit conductors contained in the raceway are protected by overcurrent devices rated at 20A or less. A redundant equipment grounding conductor is also necessary. In addition, 250.118(6)c points out that where the flexible metal conduit is part of the ground return path, the total combined length of the flexible metal conduit in that run cannot exceed 6 ft.

Surface metal raceways are also considered suitable for grounding unless they have some marking – like UL information – that would prohibit its use as a sole grounding path.

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.

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