Ecmweb 8154 Nec Whats Wrong Here April 2016 Pr
Ecmweb 8154 Nec Whats Wrong Here April 2016 Pr
Ecmweb 8154 Nec Whats Wrong Here April 2016 Pr
Ecmweb 8154 Nec Whats Wrong Here April 2016 Pr
Ecmweb 8154 Nec Whats Wrong Here April 2016 Pr

What's Wrong Here? Hint: Sheetrock to be installed later.

April 22, 2016
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: Sheetrock to be installed later.

February Winner

Only one person correctly identified the Code violations in this photo. The winner this month was Dennis B. Carlsen, a senior engineer 1 with WECTEC-VC Summer in Jenkinsville, S.C. He pointed out the missing “bubble” cover on this outdoor receptacle outlet as one of the many Code violations at this location.

Section 406.9(B) requires 15A and 20A receptacles installed in wet locations to be installed in an enclosure that is weatherproof with or without an attachment plug cap inserted. The missing cover defeats this whole requirement. Now these receptacles are exposed directly to rain and snow, which could greatly increase the shock and fire hazard. The receptacles are also required to be weather resistant (WR)-type receptacles and should be provided with GFCI protection in accordance with Sec. 210.8(B)(4).

The liquidtight flexible metallic conduit (LFMC) at the bottom of the box is broken and split open. This broken raceway is a violation of Sec. 110.12(B) because it can now let moisture and water inside, which can cause more rapid deterioration and damage to the metallic raceway parts and the conductors themselves.

Lastly, the light bulb installed in the lampholder does not appear to be of a type rated for direct exposure to a wet location.

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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