What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: The Peak of Perfection

Nov. 27, 2024

Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: The peak of perfection.

I wish I could say that this installation was the peak of perfection, but unfortunately, I cannot. The orange extension cord (also known as a cord set) is stapled along the fascia boards as if it were a Chapter 3 wiring method such as UF cable or MC cable with a nonmetallic covering. Flexible cords and cord sets however, are not Chapter 3 wiring methods. Instead, they are covered in Chapter 4 and specifically Art. 400. Section 400.12 places some restrictions on the uses of flexible cords, flexible cables, cord sets, and power supply cords. Section 400.12(1) prohibits using them as a substitute for fixed wiring of a structure. Section 400.12(4) prohibits them from being attached to building surfaces.

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.