What's Wrong Here? Hint: Rest in Peace

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? 

Hint: Rest in peace

Find the Answer

FEBRUARY WINNERS

Our three winners this month were: Jorge Ramos, a journeyman electrician from El Paso, Texas; Jeff Nelson, owner of Nelson Electric in South Hampden, Maine; and Drew Howard, P.E., a senior electrical engineer with Emprise Corp. in Kennesaw, Ga. They all correctly identified the key violation associated with this window display.

Chain supported luminaires used in show windows shall be permitted to be externally wired in accordance with Exception No. 2 of Sec. 400.11. However, the cord-connected arrangement of boxes and lampholders shown in this photo is not designed or listed to be used in this manner. As such, this particular installation violates NEC requirements.

The rules for the permitted use of flexible cords and cables can be found in 400.7(A), items (1) through (10):

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.