Code Quiz

Sept. 27, 2007
A 60-foot metal pole supporting luminaires is found to be deficient with respect to the 2005 version of the NEC. The installation consists of the following

Q. A 60-foot metal pole supporting luminaires is found to be deficient with respect to the 2005 version of the NEC. The installation consists of the following: The interior of the pole is being used as a raceway. A properly sized handhole has been provided. A grounding terminal within the pole has been provided. The size of the branch-circuit equipment-grounding conductor, which also serves to bond the metal pole to the metal raceway supporting the branch circuit conductors, is 12 AWG. The branch circuit rating is 30A.

What could possibly be the deficiency in this particular installation?

  1. There is no raceway inside the pole.
  2. The pole does not feature a hinged base.
  3. There is a lack of vertical conductor support per 300.19.
  4. Improperly sized equipment grounding and bonding conductor.

Answer: D

Per 410.15(B)(5), the size of the equipment and bonding jumper shall be in accordance with 250.122. A 30A rated branch circuit requires a minimum size 10 AWG equipment-grounding conductor.

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 [email protected].

About the Author

Steven Owen

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Strut Comparison Chart

Conduit support systems are an integral part of construction infrastructure. Compare steel, aluminum and fiberglass strut support systems.

Electrical Conduit for Bridges Guide

Learn about electrical conduit for bridge projects.

Xpress Elbows Guide for Industrial Construction

Learn how to get expedited elbows shipped within 2 days.

8 Types of Electrical Conduit and Their Uses

Electrical conduit is a tube or raceway used to house and protect electrical wires within a building or structure. From data centers to underground subways to ports and bridges...