Code Quiz

May 23, 2005 9:49 AM, By Steven Owen

For cord-and-plug connected utilization equipment, as permitted in 400.7(A)(6) and 400.7(B) of the 2005 NEC, which of the following conditions doesn't require the use of an attachment plug energized from a receptacle outlet?

A) A vertical branch circuit cable drop made from a junction box that was properly sized and supported
B) A vertical branch circuit cable drop made from a bus plug connected to a busway, meeting the requirements of 368.56(B). The attachment cap was omitted, and the equipment was wired directly
C) Cord-and-plug connected utilization equipment supplied from a receptacle outlet, in which the utilization cord cap was plugged into a wall outlet of the proper configuration and rating
D) A vertical branch circuit cable drop made from a bus plug connected to a busway. The cable was installed with two vertical and horizontal runs in this one cable installation; in other words, the cable wasn't just vertical

Answer: B)

The general rule in 400.7(B) requires cord-and-plug connected utilization equipment [400.7(A)(6)] to be supplied from a receptacle outlet through an attachment cap. An exception references 368.56, which does allow direct wiring without an attachment cap in 368.56(C).

Owen is the owner and president of National Code Seminars and the holder of master electrician certifications in 46 states. He can be reached at necexpert@aol.com.