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Code Q&A: NEC Requirements for Using and Installing EMT

Aug. 10, 2023
Test your knowledge of the NEC.

Courtesy of www.MikeHolt.com

Q.  What are the conditions electrical metallic tubing (EMT) can be used and installed?

See answer below.

A.  The conditions where EMT can be used and installed are listed in Sec. 358.10.

(A) Exposed and Concealed. EMT is permitted to be used exposed and concealed for the following applications:

(1) In concrete in direct contact with the earth in accordance with Sec. 358.10(B).

(2)  In dry, damp, or wet locations.

(3)  In any hazardous (classified) location as permitted by other articles in this Code.

(B) Corrosive Environments.

(1)  Galvanized Steel. Galvanized steel EMT, elbows, and fittings can be installed in concrete, in direct contact with the earth, or in areas subject to severe corrosive influences if protected by corrosion protection and approved as suitable for the condition [Sec. 300.6(A)].

Author’s Comment: If installed in wet locations, fittings for EMT must be listed for use in wet locations and prevent moisture or water from entering or accumulating within the enclosure in accordance with Sec. 314.15 [Sec. 358.42].

(D) Wet Locations. Support fittings such as screws, straps, and so on, installed in a wet location must be made of corrosion-resistant material.

These materials are provided to us by Mike Holt Enterprises in Leesburg, Fla. To view Code training materials offered by this company, visit www.mikeholt.com/code.

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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