What's Wrong Here? Hint: The Odd Couple

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. Note: Submitted comments must include specific references from the 2011 NEC. 

Hint: The odd couple

Find the Answer

I found this odd pairing in front of a midtown bowling alley and bistro. Several flexible cords were routed inside these sidewalk drains and used to energize receptacles serving cord connected lights on imitation trees. Of course, this type of installation does not meet installation requirements in the 2011 NEC.

Article 400 covers the general requirements, applications, and construction specifications for flexible cords and flexible cables. As noted in 400.7(A), flexible cords and cables shall be used only for the following

1. "Pendants
2. Wiring of luminaires
3. Connection of portable luminaires, portable and mobile signs, or appliances
4. Elevator cables
5. Wiring of cranes and hoists
6. Connection of utilization equipment to facilitate frequent interchange
7. Prevention of the transmission of noise or vibration
8. Appliances where the fastening means and mechanical connections are specifically designed to permit ready removal for maintenance and repair, and the appliance is intended or identified for flexible cord connection
9. Connection of moving parts
10. Where specifically permitted elsewhere in this Code"

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