Ecmweb 5880 11 21 13whatswronghereemtpromo
Ecmweb 5880 11 21 13whatswronghereemtpromo
Ecmweb 5880 11 21 13whatswronghereemtpromo
Ecmweb 5880 11 21 13whatswronghereemtpromo
Ecmweb 5880 11 21 13whatswronghereemtpromo

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Wet Behind the Ears

Nov. 21, 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: Wet behind the ears

Find the Answer

This outdoor installation of electrical metallic tubing (EMT) is taking on water faster than a sinking ship! The set screw type connectors are not for use in a wet location, as required by Section 358.42 of the 2011 NEC in correlation with Section 314.1.

In damp or wet locations, the fittings and enclosures must be installed or equipped to prevent the moisture from entering or accumulating within the fitting or enclosure. In a wet location, the equipment must be listed for use in a wet location.

This type of equipment and the positioning of the set screw connector on the vertical raceway is arranged to accumulate the water, not to prevent the accumulation of it. With moisture and water free to enter the raceway and conduit fitting, it’s only a matter of time before the tubing begins to corrode and the wires inside begin to get damaged from the constant moisture and increasing rust. This excessive moisture inside the equipment can also significantly increase the risk of shock and fire if the moisture contacts any energized terminals or splices. The wires inside of the EMT must be of a type specifically made for use in a wet location, such as one of the types described in Section 310.10(C).

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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