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What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Questionable NM Cable Install

Nov. 26, 2019
Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: questionable NM cable install

See answer below.

This area is located on the inside of an unheated attached garage in a single-family dwelling.

Section 334.10(1) generally permits NM cables to be installed in this location. However, some questions may arise if we look at Sec. 334.12(B)(4), which prohibits NM cables from being installed in wet or damp locations. I would not call this a wet location, but could it be considered a damp location? Some Code users may say “Yes” to this being considered a damp location. NM cables would not be permitted here if this is considered a damp location.

Another concern is the possibility of damage to the NM cables. If you look closely, you can see window shades, tool handles and other stored items in contact with the NM cables. Section 334.15(B) requires exposed NM cables to be provided with some type of protection against physical damage, where necessary. Rigid metal conduit (RMC), intermediate metal conduit (IMC), electrical metallic tubing (EMT), Schedule 80 PVC conduit or RTRC-XW conduit may be used to provide the required protection. One could make the argument that some protection for the NM cable is needed here.

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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