All references are based on the 2017 edition of the NEC.
How in the World Does This Happen?
Alan McGarry, an electrical project designer with AHA Consulting Engineers in Roswell, Ga., ran across this crazy installation and was kind enough to share it with us. This install has a lot of problems, but I’ll start with the missing panel cover. This missing cover increases the shock hazard because any energized parts could be more easily contacted. It generally violates the rules of Sec. 110.27(A). The next concern I have is the lack of grounding/bonding for the MC cable at the bottom left of the panel. This cable is just dangling there with no connection to the cabinet, which creates a violation of Sec. 300.10, since it is not mechanically secured and joined “so as to provide effective electrical continuity.” The next problem I notice relates to the handle ties used for the breakers on the left side of the panel. Instead of using 3-pole breakers or single-pole breakers with handle ties “identified” for the purpose as permitted in Sec. 240.15(B)(1), (B)(2), (B)(3), and (B)(4), the installer simply jammed a piece of wire through the handles of the breakers in an effort to make handle ties. Unfortunately, I encounter this common violation all too often. Even if this wiring is temporary, which some of it may be, it still needs to be Code compliant.
Take a Bow
Where did all of the conduit supports go? That’s the great mystery of this installation. The only thing supporting this conduit is a piece of rope tied around the tree just below the box. The box itself is not secured to anything and is also just flopping around when the wind blows. Installing a PVC raceway on a tree is not a Code violation; however, one needs to take particular care when doing so. In fact, Sec. 410.36(G) specifically permits using trees to support luminaires and associated equipment. Section 352.10(F) allows PVC to be used exposed, but “PVC conduit used exposed in areas of physical damage shall be identified for the use.” In other words, Schedule 80 PVC conduit should be used. Table 352.30 requires ½-in. through 1-in. PVC to be secured every 3 ft. Apparently, the installer didn’t read this Section of the Code. Perhaps an expansion-deflection fitting, as required in Sec. 300.7(B), installed near the base of the tree may have helped prevent the conduit from bowing and bending. Lastly, Sec. 314.23(A) requires boxes mounted on a building or other surface to be “rigidly and securely fastened in place.”