All references are based on the 2020 edition of the NEC unless otherwise noted.
Installations like those shown in the photo above are always a hot topic of debate in the many online Code discussion groups and forums in which I participate. There are many installers and inspectors alike who will insist that the EMT raceways run between these enclosures do not comply with the securing and supporting requirements of Sec. 358.30. They say that a clip or some other type of strap needs to be installed on the EMT between the connectors to fully comply with Sec. 358.30. I do not interpret the rules the same way.
I think this installation is perfectly fine, and no other means of support is required for these raceways. Those with interpretations different than mine will say the EMT connectors do not count as a means of securement and support for the raceway. I disagree. In fact, the term “fitting” is defined in the product standard for conduit, tubing, and cable fittings as a “means for securing conduit, cable, or tubing to an enclosure, box, or raceway system.”
The product standard also requires threadless fittings to pass stringent pull tests to ensure fittings do not come loose from the raceway and are not damaged. These fittings must also pass bending tests to ensure fittings do not become separated from the raceway. Additionally, Sec. 300.10 requires raceways and cable assemblies to be mechanically secured to boxes, fittings, cabinets, and other enclosures. Securely installed EMT connectors perform this function.
Section 358.30(A) states, “EMT run between termination points shall be securely fastened within 3 ft of each outlet box, junction box, device box, cabinet, conduit body, or other tubing termination.” This same Code section makes no mention of whether clips, straps, tie wires, hardware, or any certain type of fittings must be used as the fastening means. It is completely silent on this issue.
It is my interpretation that an EMT raceway 3 ft or less in length with a securely installed EMT connector at each end and mechanically secured to a cabinet, box, wireway, or other type of securely supported enclosure needs no other means of support or securement between the connectors because each EMT connector is secured within 3 ft of the EMT connector on the other end of the raceway. Of course, you may want to discuss this with your AHJ because they might not agree with me.
