What's Wrong Here? Hint: Approved for Outdoor Use

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Joe Morren, a master electrician in Coopersville, Mich., ran across this installation when he was sent out to re-lamp an illuminated sign. "I'm not sure how this was overlooked by the maintenance department at the facility," says Morren. "The second photo with the dangling conductor and receptacle was adjacent to a busy walkway at the same facility."

Like many other photos we have received from our faithful readers over the years, these images show the dangers of potentially exposed and energized conductors. The lack of proper maintenance and repair is an ongoing concern — especially when equipment is obviously ignored for many years.

The dangling receptacle situation can be corrected rather easily by following the requirements outlined in 110.27, Guarding of Live Parts. More specifically, as per 110.27(A), "Except as elsewhere required or permitted by this Code, live parts of electrical equipment operating at 50V or more shall be guarded against accidental contact by approved enclosures."

Also, the cable assembly is probably not designed to be used in a wet location and would not comply with the wiring methods listed in Chapter 3.

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