The 10 Craziest Code Violations of 2023

Jan. 15, 2024

Presenting the most bizarre electrical installation mishaps of last year that violated the 2023 NEC.

Year after year, EC&M readers continue to rank the National Electrical Code (NEC) as the most-important topic we cover. So, it's no surprise that the “Top 10 Craziest Code Violations of 2022” was one of our most popular photo galleries of last year — ranking up there with the “Top Changes to the 2023 National Electrical Code” article and the accompanying photo gallery.

Back by popular demand, here are the most extraordinary Code violations uncovered by our NEC Consultant Russ LeBlanc in 2023. Shoddy electrical installers beware: If you’re behind an electrical installation gone wrong like those featured here, there’s a good chance your handiwork may turn up in the pages of EC&M or on our website someday soon. Note: All references are based on the 2023 edition of the NEC.

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.