What’s Wrong Here? March 2011

Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

Hint: This is what you call an inside-out installation.

Find the Answer

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. Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

‘Tell Them What They’ve Won...’

Using the 2008 NEC, correctly identify the Code violation(s) in this month’s photo — in 200 words or less — and you could win something to put in your tool­box. E-mail your response to joseph.tedesco@yahoo.com, and we’ll select three winners (excluding manufacturers and prior winners) at random from the correct submissions. Winners will receive a set of insulated hand tools from Ideal Industries, Inc., valued at more than $125.* The set includes 9.25-in. insulated side-cutting pliers, 10-in. insulated tongue-and-groove pliers, and a 0.25-in. 3 6-in. insulated screwdriver. (* Please allow six to eight weeks for delivery of tools.)

JANUARY WINNERS

Our three winners this month include: Michael Dillon, a master electrician with RDI Mechanical in Houston; Greg Iannacone, an electrician with IBEW Local 103 in Boston; and Carl Eckhold, an electrician with Valley Electric Co. in Monmouth, Ore. These guys all pointed out many violations with this unusual installation. Here are a few to consider when reviewing this photo.

• The LB is inaccessible and has no cover — violates 314.29.
• The nipple used to connect the LB to the disconnect enclosure has no protective bushing — violates 300.4(G).
• The load side conductors are of different type and size (C phase is a single conductor, and A and B phases are paralleled conductors) — violates 310.4(B).
• If terminal lugs are not rated for two conductors, then this would be a violation of 110.14(A).
• If the paralleled conductors on the line side are smaller than 1/0, then this would be a violation of 310.10(H)(1).
• If the load side conductors are a branch circuit feeding equipment, then the unidentified ungrounded conductor on load side violates 210.5(C).
• Grounded conductors must meet the identification requirements noted in 200.6.