Ecmweb 6442 6 26 14wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6442 6 26 14wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6442 6 26 14wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6442 6 26 14wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6442 6 26 14wwhpromo

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Bundle of Bundles

June 26, 2014
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: A bundle of bundles

Find the Answer

Communication cables are simply not permitted to be secured to the outside of this electrical metallic tubing (EMT).

Section 800.133(B) of the 2014 NEC plainly and firmly states that communication cables shall not be attached by any means to the exterior of any raceway as a means of support, with the exception of an exterior raceway-type mast for supporting overhead spans of communication cables. Because this is not a mast or an exterior raceway, it’s a Code violation.

This is a common problem that I see all too often. Installers sometimes take the easy way out and just use an existing raceway to hitch a ride for the communication wires being installed. It may be quick and easy, but it also creates a Code violation.

Another concern I would like to point out is the amount of SER feeder cables that are bundled together. While bundling itself is not a Code violation, it does have some consequences. Has the ampacity of these cable been adjusted in accordance with Sec. 310.15(B)(3)(a)? If not, the cables may not be properly protected by the overcurrent device, and they could be subjected to overheating because of the number of current-carrying conductors. Where the multi-conductor cables are installed without maintaining spacing for a continuous length longer than 24 in., the allowable ampacity of each conductor shall be reduced as shown in Table 310.15(B)(3)(a).

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.

Voice your opinion!

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

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.