Ecmweb 5598 6 20 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5598 6 20 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5598 6 20 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5598 6 20 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5598 6 20 13wwhweb

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Half Way There

June 20, 2013
Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

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.

Hint: Half way there

Find the Answer

Unfortunately, half way there doesn't make the grade. This LB cover needs to be all the way there when it comes to accessing the wires. This is a violation of 314.29 of the 2011 NEC, since it's virtually impossible to remove the cover without hacking the wall open or prying off and damaging the cover.

Conduit bodies and boxes must be installed in a manner that the covers can be removed and that makes sure the wiring in them is accessible without having to destroy or remove any part of the building. Another problem I would like to point out is the gap in the wall around the conduit body, which creates a violation of 300.21, because smoke and other productions of combustion could easily pass from one side of this fire wall to the other. The gaps should be filled with some fireproof putty/caulk or some other approved material to maintain the fire resistance rating of the wall. In similar fashion, 314.21 addresses this requirement by requiring gaps or open spaces around boxes or conduit bodies to be repaired so that there is no more than 1/8 in. gap or space around  enclosures equipped with flush-type covers or faceplates in noncombustible surfaces.

About the Author

Russ LeBlanc | Owner

Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.

Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.

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