What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Metal Cable Mess

Feb. 25, 2021

Can you spot the Code violation?

Hint: Metal cable mess

I was unable to determine if the metal cables installed on the corner of this house were AC cables or MC cables, but in either case, the duplex connector installed in the top of the box is definitely a violation of Sec. 314.15. In wet locations, boxes, conduit bodies, outlet box hoods, and fittings must be installed in a manner that will prevent moisture from entering or accumulating in the box, conduit body or fitting. Boxes, conduit bodies, outlet box hoods, and fittings installed in wet locations are required to be listed for this purpose. This duplex connector is not listed for use in wet locations. Section 320.12(2) prohibits AC cable from being installed in damp or wet locations. Section 330.12(11) permits MC cable to be installed in wet locations only if a corrosion-resistant jacket is provided over the metal covering and the metal covering is impervious to moisture, or a moisture-resistant jacket is provided under the metal covering, or the conductors under the metallic cover are listed for use in wet locations.

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.