EC&M January 2024

JANUARY 2024 ecmweb.com

THE MAGAZINE OF ELECTRICAL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

EC&M Magazine Code Violations • Test & Measurement • Lighting & Control

What To Do When Your Electrician Days Are Over Why pursuing a career as an electrical inspector may make sense for you. Read more on pg. 26

IN THIS ISSUE

Estimating Tips for Long Lead Time Items pg. 8 How to Avoid Catastrophic Electrical Failures pg. 12 Craziest Code Violations of 2023 pg. 34 January 2024 • Vol. 123, No. 1

Training Your Customers About Lighting Controls pg. 46 Code Basics: NEC Requirements for GFCIs and AFCIs pg. 56 2401ECM_C1_Cover.indd 1

1/11/2024 3:47:44 PM

WHY BUY

American-Made Steel?

Our families.

Our neighbors.

Our future.

Buying American-made steel conduit can help make an impact that is felt far and wide. American-made steel conduit means jobs for you and your neighbors.

American-made steel conduit means completely American-made from coil to conduit. American-made steel conduit means higher standards and a lower carbon footprint than imported materials. American-made steel conduit means a bright future of Building Better Together. *Does not include Kwik products Source: American Steel Tube Institute https://steeltubeinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/SteelConduit_Sustainability-Fact-Sheet_111621.pd f

Learn more at atkore.com

2401ECM_Atkore.indd 2401ECM_C2-3_TOC.indd1 2

1/2/24 9:54 1/11/2024 3:49:12 PMAM

2401EC

Don’t Take Safety Lightly... get reliable signal towers and audible devices for all of your machines, systems, and processes.

NEW! Patlite NE Series Visual and Audible-Visual Signaling Beacons Starting at $32.00 (NE-24A-R)

Pffffffffffff NE ffffffffffff fffffififffffffifi bfffffffffiff ffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffzffbffff ffffffffff fffffffffffffffffiff fffffifffffffifi fffffifffffffffiffff fffifi fffffiffbffff ffffffffff fffifffffffiff ffffff ff fifffffffffffi ffff fffififfffffffffffff fffififffffffifffffiffff. Tffffffff fiffffffffffffffff fffffififffffffifi fifffiffffffff ffffff fffffffffffi ffff fiffffffffff-fffifffi bfffffffffiff ffff ffffffbfffifffffffffi fifffiffffffff wffffff ff bffzzffff ffff ffffffffffffffbffff ffffffffff fffffiff. Sffffffffff fffffiffffff fffffififfffff IO-Lfffik.

Mfffiff-ffffffffff bfffffffffiff ffffff fffiffffffffbffff fffi fffffiff fiffffffffwff fifffffffiff bffffffff ffff ffffffffff fffffiffffff. Mffffffff-ffffffffff fifffffffffffiff fffffififfffff fffffifffi ffffffffffffffbffff ffffffffffffff ffffffffwfffifi ffffffffff ffff fffffififfff fiffffffffffffff ffqfffffifffffiff fffffififffffffffiff wffffff ff fffffififfff fifffiffffff.

WERMA eSIGN Series LED Signal Towers Starting at $388.00 (65700055)

WERMA ffSIGN ffffffffffff fffffififfff ffffwffffff fifffffifffiff ffffffff-ffffffffffffff fffffififffffffifi wffffff ff fifffffffffffi ffff fifffffiffffffffffbffff fffffififfff fffffiffff.

Tffff fffffffffffffffiffff fffffifffffffffffffi ffff ffffffffff ffffwffffff fifffffifffiffff fiffffffffffff ffffffffffffff bfffffifffffiffffff fffffiffffffff fffifi fffffiffff ffffffffffffffffff ffffffffff ffffffff ffffffffff ffffff ffffffff ffffffffffffff fffffififfff ffffwffff ffff fffffffifffffffffffi ffffffffffffffzfffi fffffffffffififf. Tffff ffSIGN fffffififfff ffffwffffff fffffi ffffffff ffwffffffff wffffff ffffffff bffffwfffffi fiffffffffbffff fifififififififi fffffffifi fffffiffff fifififififi fffififffffffffffffiff fifififififififififififi fffifi fifififi ffffffff-ffffffffffffff fffffififffffffifi.

Affffffffffffffff Mfffiff

Sfffififfff Tffwffff Mfffiff

Ffffffffffifi Lfffiffff Mfffiff

Ifififffifffiffffff Mfffiff

Ifi ffffffffffffffffff fffffiffff ffffff ffSIGN fffffifffffiffff ffffff fifffifffifffi ffqfffffffffi bfi ffffff fiffffbffff ffff fffffffffiff ffffffffffff wfffffifffififf. Iff fffifffi fffiff ffffffffffff wfffffifffifi ffff fffffffffiffff ffffff fffiffffffff ffffwffff ffff fffffffffffffifffffffi fffi fffiff ffffffffff ffffff fffffiffffffff fiffffffbfffffffffi.

Ffffffffffifi fffffiffff fffffiff fffffffffffffffffffi fffififfffffffffff jffb fifffffiffffffff ffff ffffffffffffffff fffiffffffffbfffffffffi ffff ff fifffffffffifffffiffff fifffffifffffffffi fffffffffffffifffffffifi ffffff fffffififfff ffffwffff ffffffff bffffffffff ffff fffffi ffff fffffi ffff bffffffffff.

Ifi fffffififfff ffffwffff fffffiffff ffSIGN fffffifffffiffff ffffff ffffffbfffifffi ffff ffffffffffff ff ffffffffffffff fffffififfff ffffwffff.

Ifififffifffiffffff ffffffffff ffffff fifffi fffffffffififffi fififififi fifffffffffffffiff ffffffff ffffff fffffffifffi ON wfffffi ffffffffff fffffffffffffifffififffifi ffffffffffff bffff ffff fffffffffiff.

Affff ffffffffffff ffffffffffffff fffffiffff ffffffffff fffifi fffffffififf ffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff fifffffffi fffififffifffififffifffffi fffffifififififififififififififififififififififi ffffff ffffffff fffffififfff ffffwffff ffffffffff fffi fffififffifffiffffff fffffiff. Effffff fffffififfff ffffwffff ffffffffff ffff fffffffffffffffi bfffffffi fffi ffffff ffffffbfffifffffffffi ffff fffffffffiff ffffffffffff fffififfffff.

Also Available Starting at $7.50 (ECX2070-24)

Afffiffbffff fffffififfff fffffffiff fffifi bffzzffffff fffffffffffffffifi: • Indoor / outdoor models up to 110 dB • Selectable alarm tones • Hazardous location rated alarms

Rffffffffffffffff fiffffffffff bfffi ffff:

www.automationdirect.com/signal-devices www.automationdirect.com/stacklights www.automationdirect.com/audible-alarms

f

Order Today, Ships Fast! * See our Web site for details and restrictions. © Copyright 2022 AutomationDirect, Cumming, GA USA. All rights reserved.

9:54 AM

2401ECM_AutomationDirect.indd 1 2401ECM_C2-3_TOC.indd 1

1-800-633-0405

ffffff #1 fiffffffff fffi fffffffffffffffffffi

12/18/23 11:31 1/11/2024 3:49:15 PMAM

CONTENTS COVER STORY

26 What to Do When

January 2024 • Volume 123 • Number 1

Your Electrician Days Are Over

Why pursuing a career as an electrical inspector may make sense for you

26

OTHER FEATURES

34 The 10 Craziest Code

DEPARTMENTS 6 Industry Viewpoint 8 Estimating Essentials Estimating tips for long lead time

Violations of 2023

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

46 Training Your

Customers About Lighting Controls

22

items

12 Electrical Testing Education

Does your client know how to operate its lighting control system? If training wasn’t part of your contract, maybe it should have been.

NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

56 Code Basics NEC requirements for GFCIs and AFCIs

60 Code

12

How to avoid catastrophic electrical failures

16 Job-Site Intelligence Using business software to manage your manpower needs

34

22 Installation Basics Dedicated electrical spaces about electrical equipment

46 52 New Product Showcase

Focus on wiring devices

Quandaries

54 Product News 63 Ad Index

Stumped by the Code?

61 Illustrated

Catastrophes

61

More Code catastrophes

64 What’s

Wrong Here?

Can you spot the Code violations?

2

64

Cover Photo: Watchara Kokram/iStock/Getty Images Plus

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_C2-3_TOC.indd 2

1/11/2024 3:49:22 PM

2201EC

The BNT Nonmetallic Cable Support For Power Manholes And Vaults Underground Devices BNT Nonmetallic Cable Supports:

High Load Capacity Arms Can be Used With Nonmetallic or Steel Stanchions Will Not Rust or Corrode Insulators Not Required Excellent Dielectric Properties Multiple Stanchion Lengths Available Arms Available in Multiple Lengths With Integrated Saddles or a Flat Surface Molded from UL Listed Glass Reinforced Polymer

BNT Saddle Arms Installed in a Nonmetallic Stanchion

2201ECM_UndergroundDevices.indd 1 2401ECM_C2-3_TOC.indd 3

1/3/22 3:19 1/11/2024 3:49:23 PMPM

ECMWEB.COM

January 2024, Vol. 123/No. 1

www.ecmweb.com

With its exclusive online content, ecmweb.com is a valuable source of industry insight for electrical professionals. Here’s a sample of what you can find on our site right now: Photo 248472064 © Lumikk555 | Dreamstime.com

Editorial Group Editorial Director - Buildings & Construction: Michael Eby, meby@endeavorb2b.com Editor-in-Chief: Ellen Parson, eparson@endeavorb2b.com Managing Editor: Ellie Coggins, ecoggins@endeavorb2b.com Editor: Michael Morris, mmorris@endeavorb2b.com Art Director: David Eckhart, deckhart@endeavorb2b.com Consultants and Contributors NEC Consultant: Mike Holt, mike@mikeholt.com

THE MOST MEMORABLE EC&M ARTICLES OF 2023

NEC Consultant: Russ LeBlanc, russ@russleblanc.net

Gallery Check out six of our favorite articles we published this year. ecmweb.com/21278846

Sales and Marketing Vice President: Mike Hellmann, mhellmann@endeavorb2b.com Regional/Territory Account Manager: David Sevin, dsevin@endeavorb2b.com Photo 84807669 © Eom Gayoung | Dreamstime.com

Regional/Territory Account Manager: Jay Thompson, jthompson@endeavorb2b.com

EC&M TECH TALK — RULES FOR MEASURING EARTH RESISTANCE

Media Account Executive – Classifieds/Inside Sales: Steve Suarez, ssuarez@endeavorb2b.com Production and Circulation Production Manager: Brenda Wiley, bwiley@endeavorb2b.com Ad Services Manager: Deanna O’Byrne, dobyrne@endeavorb2b.com User Marketing Manager: James Marinaccio, jmarinaccio@endeavorb2b.com Classified Ad Coordinator: Terry Gann, tgann@endeavorb2b.com Endeavor Business Media, LLC

Video Electrical Trainer Randy Barnett addresses three main topics related to earth resistance. ecmweb.com/21280087

CEO: Chris Ferrell

President: June Griffin

COO: Patrick Rains

CRO: Reggie Lawrence

Chief Digital Officer: Jacquie Niemiec

Chief Administrative and Legal Officer: Tracy Kane

Courtesy of WECA

EVP, Group Publisher – Buildings/Lighting/Digital Infrastructure: Lester Craft

HOW VR TOOLS HELP TRAIN ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES IN BESS INSPECTION SKILLS

Training Aiming to improve learning, connect with digital natives, and get a foothold on visualization technology’s cutting edge, WECA is making a bet on a VR tool as an electrical skills training aid. ecmweb.com/21279604

Electrical Construction & Maintenance (USPS Permit 499-790 , ISSN 1082-295X print, ISSN 2771-6384 online) is published monthly by Endeavor Business Media, LLC. 201 N. Main St 5th Floor, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Electrical Construction & Maintenance, PO Box 3257, Northbrook, IL 60065-3257. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Publisher reserves the right to reject non-qualified subscriptions. Subscription prices: U.S. ($68.75 year); Canada/Mexico ($ 112.50); All other countries ($162.50). All subscriptions are payable in U.S. funds. Send subscription inquiries to Electrical Construction & Maintenance, PO Box 3257, Northbrook, IL 60065-3257. Customer service can be reached toll-free at 877-382-9187 or at electricalconstmaint@omeda.com for magazine subscription assistance or questions.

Printed in the USA. Copyright 2024 Endeavor Business Media, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopies, recordings, or any information storage or retrieval system without permission from the publisher. Endeavor Business Media, LLC does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any person or company for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in the material herein, regardless of whether such errors result from negligence, accident, or any other cause whatsoever. The views and opinions in the articles herein are not to be taken as official expressions of the publishers, unless so stated. The publishers do not warrant either expressly or by implication, the factual accuracy of the articles herein, nor do they so warrant any views or opinions by the authors of said articles.

Reprints: Contact reprints@endeavorb2b.com to purchase custom reprints or e-prints of articles appearing in this publication.

Photocopies: Authorization to photocopy articles for internal corporate, personal, or instructional use may be obtained from the Copyright Clearance Center (CCC) at (978) 750-8400. Obtain further information at www.copyright.com.

Archives and Microform: This magazine is available for research and retrieval of selected archived articles from leading electronic databases and online search services, including Factiva, LexisNexis, and ProQuest.

Privacy Policy: Your privacy is a priority to us. For a detailed policy statement about privacy and information dissemination practices related to Endeavor Business Media products, please visit our website at www.endeavorbusinessmedia.com.

Please Note: The designations “National Electrical Code,” “NE Code,” and “NEC” refer to the National Electrical Code®, which is a registered trademark of the National Fire Protection Association.

E A

4

P

Corporate Office: Endeavor Business Media, LLC, 30 Burton Hills Blvd., Ste 185, Nashville, TN 37215 USA, www.endeavorbusinessmedia.com

4

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_4-5_Masthead.indd 4

1/11/2024 3:51:25 PM

2302EC

MADE D IN USA FOR SA SAFER AFER ER BETTER B ER FA FASTER ER JOBS

We’re Proud to be the Electricians’ Friend for Over 50 Years!

on on ! e v a S allati Inst

Qwik Duct

Safer Better Faster IP3b Patent Pending

HDPE CUSTOM TEMPLATES In Any Configuration Required

PVC Offset

IP1 C

Sizes 1/2” thru 6” Meets Flexible Mandrel Test Requirements

US

Bore Spacers

Patent Pending

IP2

Sizes 1/2” thru 6” Roll assembled conduit into caissons and under obstructions C

US

Assemble Conduit Above Trench-

No Workers Below Prevents Injuries and Deaths.

Also Allows Digging a Narrower Trench for Less: Excavation, Concrete, Slurry, Backfill & Shoring.

IP13A-F

Conduit Transition Couplings C

US

PVC Schedule 40 & 80 Transitions in Less Than

PATENT PENDING

5 Minutes

PATENT PENDING

NEW NEW

PVC/PVC

IP15

NEW NEW

PVC/Flex

PVC/Alum

PVC/EMT PVC/Rigid

PVC/Stainless C/St i l PVC/Liquidtite

End Bell C US PATENT Save Cost on the Rigid Nipple, Tape & Labor Adapter PENDING Schedule 40/80 PVC

Use for Entire Job - Not Just for Repair

IP15

1 Piece Reaming Bit 1/2” thru 6” Schedule 40/80

Plus More Being Invented for SAFER BETTER FASTER Jobs . . . Call With Your Ideas!

SPProducts.com 2302ECM_SPProducts.indd 51 2401ECM_4-5_Masthead.indd

800-233-8595 info@SPProducts.com 1/4/23 9:48 1/11/2024 3:51:27 PMAM

INDUSTRY VIEWPOINT

The Best and the Worst of 2023

By Ellen Parson, Editor-in-Chief

E

very December and January, the editorial team takes the time to scour our web stats from the previous year as well as evaluate reader feedback in a quest to determine which articles and themes resonated best with our audience. Although this endeavor is certainly tedious and time-consuming, I always find it rewarding in the end because it enables us to better shape our content strategies going forward based on reader preference trends. For many years, we have curated and presented our general “best of ” galleries, all of which continue to perform very well. However, this year, we decided to take things a step further, offering specific “most memorable” conglomerations featuring the most popular subject areas we cover.

It’s no surprise that NEC topics like Code Basics, Code Quiz of the Week, Code Conversations podcasts, What’s Wrong Here?, and Illustrated Catastrophes consistently took the top spots when it comes to overall year-over-year traction, but many other categories (including construction, safety, training, power quality, lighting, electric vehicles, and design) stood out as well. Although we don’t have the real estate to run all of this online content in print, I highly encourage you to visit our website (ecmweb.com) and peruse the “most memorable” content in all of the categories you value most. Here’s a quick cheatsheet with short links to the latest galleries to check out, featuring some of the best (most popular) and the worst (most disturbing Code violations) content of 2023: • Most Memorable Articles of 2023 (ecmweb.com/21278846) • Best of the Worst: 2023’s Most Interesting What’s Wrong Here Photos — Part 1 (ecmweb.com/21279119) • Best of the Worst: 2023’s Most Interesting What’s Wrong Here Photos — Part 2 (ecmweb.com/21279133) • Most Memorable Construction Articles of 2023 (ecmweb.com/21279585) • 5 Most Popular EV Articles of 2023 (ecmweb.com/21279889) • 5 Most Popular MRO Articles of 2023 (ecmweb.com/21279872) • 5 Most Popular Power Quality Articles of 2023 (ecmweb.com/21279958) • Most Memorable Training Articles of 2023 (ecmweb.com/21280244) One gallery we do make room for in print each year is “The Craziest Code Violations of 2023,” found on page 34. Back by popular demand, NEC Consultant and Electrical Inspector Russ LeBlanc showcases some of the most extraordinary and bizarre Code violations he uncovered in 2023 and provides analysis on why the installations aren’t up to snuff. Even after all of these years, these installations gone wrong never cease to amaze me.

Speaking of ensuring that electrical installations are NEC compliant, the craziest Code violations article directly relates to our cover story this month, starting on page 26. Written

by Joseph Wages, Jr., director of digital education for the IAEI, this piece outlines how to transition from an electrician or electrical contractor to an electrical inspector. What makes a good inspector? What education/certification is needed? And how can inspectors work more seamlessly with electrical professionals in the field? Here are just a few words of wisdom Wages learned years ago when it comes to maintaining civility between contractors and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs): “Never wrestle with a pig in the mud.

All that will happen is you will get dirty and find out that the pig enjoys it!” Read more from Wages on what to do if and when you decide your electrician days are over and why pursuing a career as an electrical inspector might make sense. As Wages explains, a good inspector is fair and enforces the requirements of the codes and standards consistently.

“Much like an umpire calling balls and strikes,” he writes,” as long as the inspector is fair and consistent, everyone gets along.”

H T S G

I N

Y w to b w P a c

E th th

6

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_6-7_Industry_Viewpoint.indd 6

1/11/2024 3:53:32 PM

2401EC

HERE TO KICK SOME GAS. Introducing our new PowerProtect™ Generator lineup with NGMax™ technology.

Your customers demand more bang for their standby power bucks. And we’re not playing around. Our new PowerProtect Generators are designed to provide maximum power output using Natural Gas. That’s important, because most homeowners have access to Natural Gas and will benefit with a lower cost per kilowatt. Available in 13kW, 18kW, 22kW and 26kW, PowerProtect Generators not only beat the competition on power, value and performance — they’re backed by the longest and most comprehensive standard warranty in the industry.

Engineered with

NGMaxª

Learn more about standby generator power ratings and NGMax at briggsandstratton.com/ecm

Engineered and Manufactured in the USA. Briggs & Stratton has a policy of continuous product improvement and reserves the right to modify its specifications at any time and without prior notice. Please visit energy.BRIGGSandSTRATTON.com for the latest information. Copyright © 2024 Briggs & Stratton. All rights reserved.

2401ECM_Briggs&StrattonStandbyPower.indd 1 2401ECM_6-7_Industry_Viewpoint.indd 7

11/28/23 5:01 1/11/2024 3:53:33 PMPM

ESTIMATING ESSENTIALS

Estimating Tips for Long Lead Time Items

Five major considerations to keep in mind when estimating for electrical components with significant lead times

By Don Kiper, Estimating 101

Photo 132233129 © Makidotvn | Dreamstime.com

E

stimating is a challenge because there are so many types of projects in various sectors. The types of projects that estimators are expected to work on vary from one contractor to another. Some contractors focus on specific sectors where the company performs best. Others have the personnel and labor force to excel in various markets, such as residential housing units, commercial/institutional buildings, and industrial facilities.

8

However, the skillset to estimate a water treatment plant is much different than estimating a commercial retail space.

A retail space involves lighting, convenient outlets, data communications, and possibly specialty lighting for product displays. A commercial project typically requires panels, transformers, luminaires, and special systems, including fire alarms. Whereas, a water treatment plant may require large distribution switchgear, generators, and

variable-frequency drives (VFDs).

The equipment needs are designed for a specific application and require a longer lead time due to the requirements in the specification.

When equipment quotations are received during the bidding process, there are always lead times noted in the “terms and conditions” of the quotation.

These dates are subject to change based on the manufacturer’s production schedule as orders are received.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_8-11_Estimating.indd 8

1/11/2024 3:54:56 PM

2304EC

THE

TOOL T OOL fo foxx

TOOLS you can TRUST Partner with the TOOL fox to take advantage of these benefits: • Robust, durable, and ergonomic industrial wire-processing hand tools • Cut, strip, and crimp with consistent high-caliber results • UL Listed when used with Phoenix Contact’s quality ferrules • Backed by a dedicated sales team and technical service • Covered by a limited lifetime warranty For more information and videos, please visit www.phoenixcontact.com/us-TOOLfox.

© PHOENIX CONTACT 2023

2304ECM_PhoenixContact.indd9 1 2401ECM_8-11_Estimating.indd

3/8/23 8:49 1/11/2024 3:54:57 PMAM

ESTIMATING ESSENTIALS

E-Train This e-newsletter, published monthly, brings you the latest training courses available in the industry. Rely on E-Train for refresher courses or for continuing education.

Topics covered include: • PLC certification • Short-circuit current ratings • Relay testing • NFPA 70E • Thermal imaging • Lighting controls

Subscribe Today See all of our EC&M e-newsletters at www.ecmweb.com

10 ECM-ads.indd 2

At this point, the estimator must be keenly aware of these specialty components and project schedule. The lead times of some major products can be an important factor in estimating the final bid price. The lead time is defined as the time it takes for a product or equipment to be delivered to the job site. Manufacturer delivery dates are always after an approved submittal has been received from the architect.

Once a contract is signed for a project, equipment is ordered but not manufactured. The supplier will provide shop drawings (i.e., submittals) to the contractor. The shop drawings are next provided to the architect for approval; then the equipment can be manufactured to the approved shop drawings.

At this point, the manufacturer provides the contractor with an exact delivery date. Remember, the equipment must be delivered on time to allow for installation and commissioning before the contract completion date. In addition, extra manufacturing costs may be required to meet the project schedule.

Some manufacturers do not even offer an expedited delivery service.

The estimator must carefully review the project schedule and the major pieces of equipment required. For example, some switchboards could have lead times as long as six months. The owner should be informed when the schedule and delivery dates are costly — or impossible — to execute.

Some custom-made architectural lighting products can also have long lead times. In certain cases, these items cannot be delivered promptly. When the owner has a fixed date to open their facility, the electrical contractor may be required to install temporary luminaires until the permanent lighting products are received. In these cases, additional labor and material will be required.

Here are my five most important takeaways to keep in mind when estimating with long lead time items.

1. Review all major equipment quotations for delivery dates. The more sophisticated the equipment, the longer it takes to manufacture.

2. Delivery times are always after engineer approval. Once the engineer

receives the shop drawings from the contractor, he or she will carefully review every aspect of the equipment to ensure that it meets the specifications and will be built as specified. The more complex the equipment, the longer the approval process will typically be.

3. Review the project’s construction schedule and phasing plan. If the project has a five-month schedule, delivery dates may become a challenge, depending on the equipment.

If the project is completed in phases, the phasing plan must be reviewed to determine which pieces of equipment are in each phase. Different release dates will be required for the different phases of the project.

4. Inform the owner when delivery dates and the project’s schedule are incompatible. It is in the best interest of both the owner and the contractor to resolve this conflict. Waiting for equipment can be disruptive to the contractor’s labor efficiency.

5. Get any additional costs to expedite delivery in writing from the manufacturer’s representative.

An owner may not even be aware that having to expedite the delivery of key components will increase the cost of their project. When the owner is unwilling to move the completion date, then these additional costs for expedited delivery must be included in the bid price.

Being aware of the project schedule, components, and lead times will allow for an accurate bid, a better relationship with the owner, and the most efficient installation. Proper handling of these long lead time items should increase profitability, which is the goal of every project.

With more than 35 years of experience as a construction electrician, industrial maintenance electrician, foreman, estimator, estimating manager, and project manager, Don has used what he learned to lead in the implementation of estimating software with three electrical contractors where he has worked. Don has 17 years of experience in the construction field and 18 years of office experience and he has personally estimated over $700 million dollars in electrical projects.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com 3/30/18 7:04 PM

2401ECM_8-11_Estimating.indd 10

1/11/2024 3:54:58 PM

2401EC

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. Coverage provided and serviced by affiliated and third-party insurers.

As a small business owner, you can’t escape your to-do list.

That’s why Progressive makes it easy to save with a commercial auto quote, so you can take on all your other to-dos. Get a quote in as little as 6 minutes at ProgressiveCommercial.com

2401ECM_ProgressiveInsurance.indd 1 2401ECM_8-11_Estimating.indd 11

12/15/23 10:41 1/11/2024 3:54:59 PMAM

ELECTRICAL TESTING EDUCATION

How to Avoid Catastrophic Electrical Failures

Case study demonstrates steps for identifying signs of MCC failure and protecting both equipment and personnel

By Adam Murray, Advanced Electrical Services Ltd.

W

hen a facility experiences a catastrophic electrical failure event, the impact of such events can be devastating to operations — and, more importantly, personnel. Just such an event occurred at a gas plant in Alberta, Canada.

Field service personnel were dispatched to the gas processing plant in northern Alberta to repair a failed 600V motor control center (MCC) bus.

Before the technicians arrived, the 600V bus components had been disassembled by facility personnel to prepare for the installation of a new MCC section.

12

Getting the facility back up and operational for the client was more critical than performing an in-depth investigation of the failure.

However, using the information and photographs available, the technicians explored potential root causes for the failure. Moisture, humidity, and condensation were discussed but quickly ruled out due to ambient conditions within a functional climate-control unit in the building, which also provided inherently low relative humidity in this area.

Photo 1 on page 13 shows that the A-phase bus experienced a high degree

of heating between the vertical bus connection and the adjacent horizontal bus connection where the eventual failure occurred. This was apparently due to the high oxidation level on the bus bar exacerbated by the lack of tin plating.

If there were a loose vertical bus connection, it likely would have dissipated heat into the nearby horizontal connection that was thermally and electrically insulated with vinyl tape. This allowed heat to accumulate within this portion of the bus.

At this point, the A-phase bus bar got hot enough to allow the tin plating

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_12-15_NETA.indd 12

1/11/2024 3:56:37 PM

to melt, and molten tin dripped down on top of the adjacent B-phase bus. This would have effectively created a conductive path between phases, allowing an inadvertent electrical connection, subsequent ionization of surrounding air, and an arc flash event (Photo 2).

The likely root cause of this failure was determined to be loose vertical bus connections that were not recognized during the initial commissioning of the MCC three years prior. As part of the investigation, previous maintenance records on the failed equipment were requested. The client stated that no previous maintenance had been performed, and no maintenance records existed. This was a key contributor to the failure.

The deficiency may have been recognized before the eventual catastrophic failure if contact resistance testing had been performed during maintenance.

LESSONS LEARNED

The catastrophic failure of this 600V MCC could have been mitigated and potentially avoided during commissioning or maintenance activities by employing several procedures and tools that are available to experienced test technicians, such as: • Check the torque on all accessible bolted connections.

• Use a higher DC current contact resistance test equipment, if possible, within rated equipment capacity (i.e., a 400A primary-injection test system versus a 10A hand-held contact resistance test set).

• Ensure all vertical bus connections were tested by removing key MCC cells that would allow for maximum bus run lengths for the 400A DC current test.

• Visually inspect the bus where accessible to identify anomalies such as insulating tape or clear plastic wrap trapped under the connection or a layer of corrosion/dirt/ oxidation inside the connection.

Photo 1. An inspection of this A-phase bus provides clues to the root cause of its failure.

RECOMMENDED TESTS

When testing bolted electrical connections, several additional test procedures are recommended, including: • All bolted electrical connections should be tested with a low-resistance ohmmeter. The NETA standard does not specify a DC current value; however, if a higher available test current falls under the confines of the equipment’s rated capacity it should be used, as some high-resistance connections don’t manifest until higher current levels.

• If inspecting a 4,000A bus, consider using a higheroutput test set and carefully check the torque on all bolted connections.

• Conversely, if the equipment is only rated for 20A, for example, a 10A DC low-resistance ohmmeter test can be used if torque cannot be confirmed.

• Torque checks should always supplement electrical contact resistance testing if the connections are accessible.

Specific items to be considered for testing include: Vertical bus connections accessed by temporarily removing MCC buckets.

Grounding provisions such as safety grounding balls.

Higher current disconnect switches and breakers (refer to ANSI/NETA ATS and ANSI/NETA MTS for more information).

Photo 2. The fault inception location ultimately experienced an arc flash event. www.ecmweb.com • January 2024

2401ECM_12-15_NETA.indd 13

13

1/11/2024 3:56:38 PM

ELECTRICAL TESTING EDUCATION Fuse connections (connection only), but be cautious when performing contact resistance around a fuse. A lowcurrent test unit or multimeter can be used if fuse integrity needs to be confirmed.

THEORY

ElectricalZone This weekly e-newsletter offers subscribers a unique and inside view into the most important trends, technologies, and developments taking place within the electrical industry.

Topics covered include: • Exclusive photo galleries • Market forecasts and analysis • Code Quiz of the Week • Online-only feature articles • Late-breaking industry news

Subscribe Today See all of our EC&M e-newsletters at www.ecmweb.com

14 ECM-ads.indd 6

Simply put, a high-resistance connection can generally result in two undesirable outcomes: • Overheating, which leads to melted components and a potentially catastrophic failure.

• Excessive voltage drop, leading to downstream equipment damage.

With loose bolted electrical connections, a hazardous scenario can exist when equipment connections will not sufficiently pass the rated current without overheating. This high-resistance connection can create heating modeled by the P = I2 × R formula, where P is equal to power. This could simply be understood as directly proportional to the heating effect at this poor connection. I and R are equal to current and resistance, respectively.

The heating effect can also be accelerated by items such as well-insulated connections (thermally and electrically), tight enclosed spaces without airflow, and the positive feedback loop of connection having higher resistance as heat increases. A hot general environment (such as an MCC located in a small building with no A/C in the summer) will also accelerate the effects of heating.

Downstream equipment can also experience a voltage drop from heating. The magnitude of this drop can be modeled by V = I × R, where I is nominal bus current, and R is the resistance of the connection. The following quote from Fluke Corp.’s website discusses the effect voltage drop can have on current unbalance on electric motors: “Voltage unbalance at the motor terminals causes high current unbalance, which can be six to 10 times as large as the voltage unbalance. Unbalanced currents lead to torque pulsation, increased vibration and mechanical stress, increased losses, and motor overheating.

“ANSI/NEMA standard MG 1 prescribes a 1% limit for voltage unbalance, noting that current unbalance can be

expected to be six to 10 times the voltage unbalance on a percent basis. If the current unbalance exceeds 10%, the supply voltages should be corrected to less than 1% unbalance, or the motor must be de-rated.”

CONCLUSION

The effects of high-resistance connections can ultimately lead to issues with electrical equipment and systems. These effects are exponentially proportional and can cause major issues for plant equipment.

Adam Murray is the technical services manager at Advanced Electrical Services Ltd (AES). He has four years of experience testing and commissioning in the industrial and utility sectors of Western Canada. Adam is responsible for the management of medium- to large-scale electrical commissioning and maintenance projects for the many clients the company supports across Western Canada. He is a NETA Level III Technician who studied electrical engineering technology at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Electrical Testing Education articles are provided by the InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA), www.NETAworld.org. NETA was formed in 1972 to establish uniform testing procedures for electrical equipment and systems. Today the association accredits electrical testing companies; certifies electrical testing technicians; publishes the ANSI/NETA Standards for Acceptance Testing, Maintenance Testing, Commissioning, and the Certification of Electrical Test Technicians; and provides training through its annual PowerTest Conference and library of educational resources.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com 3/30/18 7:04 PM

2401ECM_12-15_NETA.indd 14

1/11/2024 3:56:38 PM

ARLINGTON

SPLIT GROUNDING BUSHINGS for THREADED and

UNTHREADED RIGID and IMC

Also Compatible with EMT

Get convenience and time-savings with Arlington’s 550 series SPLIT grounding bushings.

The split allows the addition of a bushing AFTER conductors are installed in threaded or unthreaded Rigid/IMC conduit. Great for tight spaces!

UNTHREADED conduit

THREADED conduit

• In 1/2” to 4” trade sizes – Ships Assembled • Compatible with EMT, 2-1/2" to 4" trade sizes, and threaded electrical fittings

© 2023 Arlington Industries Inc.

EASY TO INSTALL

1 Loosen side screws.

Allow bushing to pivot around installed cables

30A

2 Tighten set screw to seat bushing on conduit

SPLIT 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2401ECM_Arlington_8803430124_30a.indd 1

2

1

aifittings.com/landing/split-grounding-bushings

12/20/23 1:07 PM

DUPLEX • DIECAST ZINC

COMBINATION COUPLINGS

TRANSITION from EMT to FLEXIBLE METAL CABLE... THE EASY WAY!

3/4" EMT

NEW

8675 and 8675SG combination couplings install easily on AC, MCI-A, HCF steel and aluminum cable, flexible metal conduit (steel and aluminum, regular and reduced wall), MCI cable and continuous corrugated aluminum.

And offer independent securing of different size cables.

8675 SNAP2IT®

BOTH STYLES secure cables independently © 2023 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Arlington’s new duplex diecast couplings save time and money! They allow easy transitions from 3/4" EMT to 3/8" trade size flexible metal cables – perfect for running MC cable above a drop ceiling and connecting to surface mounted EMT to feed a box or switch.

• Tested, LISTED to exceed UL ground fault requirements • Ships Assembled – Compatible with 3/4" EMT Available in Snap2It® ...and SADDLE GRIP® styles 8675SG

8675

88

8675SG Saddle Grip® Patent pending

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866431-1223_88.indd 1 2401ECM_12-15_NETA.indd 15

Product info aifittings.com/landing/zinc-combination-couplings

11/14/23 1:13 PM 1/11/2024 3:56:39 PM

JOB-SITE INTELLIGENCE

Using Business Software to Manage Your Manpower Needs

S

How far can you see ahead to determine job-site requirements?

By Phil Nimmo, MCA, Inc.

Fig. 1. Information about proposals on an upcoming project.

Fig. 2. Tracking changes to the contract before, during, and after award.

I

t’s nearly impossible today to think of starting a business without software tools. We use software to manage our data, perform record-keeping services, and support our decision making.

But for any software system to assist with management decision making and true projection/forecasting in a way that is useful, it must have real-time access to the same data from all the sources you utilize.

16

When you choose an integrated software suite that provides customer relationship management (CRM), estimating, project management, project cost accounting, and high-level ERP functions in one program, you believe that you have all the information needed to track and project reliably — but perhaps not.

What about all the telephone calls and emails that ultimately impact

your scope of work and your timeline for completion? How does your integrated software account for changes in work, not just cost? You need to have direct operational input to know how change orders, alternate means and methods, material substitutions, and revised schedules impact your work/ labor needs — not to mention productivity impacts, rework, and how

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_16-21_Jobsite_Intel.indd 16

1/11/2024 3:58:06 PM

2312EC

NO TOOLS! • EASY CAB LE I NSERTION

Snap2it 90°connectorS ®

WITH and WITHOUT INSULATED THROAT FAST, EASY REMOVE CLIP to REMOVE CABLE 38900AST

4010900AST

40900ST

• Easy snap-in cable installation Save time

EASY TO INSTALL

over 90° 2-screw MC Connectors at same cost per connector

1 BEND CABLE FOR EASY INSERTION 2 INSERT CABLE INTO FITTING

• Handles widest range & variety of cables: 14/2 to 10/2 AC, MC, HCF, MC continuous corrugated aluminum cable, MCI-A cables (steel & aluminum), AC90 and ACG90 0

3 SNAP ASSEMBLY INTO BOX (SEE ABOVE)

2 1

Flexible Metal Conduit Steel & Aluminum (RWFMC)

per connector over 2-screw styles

• Easy to remove from box...reusable 38900AST 38900ST Dia. Range

Cable Range

14/2, and 12/2 with & w/o .440 to ground.

MCI-A Steel & Aluminum .550 14/3, 14/4 12/3, 12/4 AC90, ACG90 10/2

MC/HCF/AC Steel & Aluminum

1 MINUTE

• Fast, secure installation...No pullout

90° SNAP2IT® CABLE RANGES

CABLE TYPE

SAVE

.380 to .600

4010900AST 40900ST Dia. Range

Cable Range

with and without insulated throat

.490 to .600

14/3, 12/2, and 12/3 with & w/o .480 to ground. .550 14/4 .480 to 12/4 .550 10/2

6

3/8" Flex* *CSA Listed w anti-short bushing ONLY

Patented © 2015 Arlington Industries Inc.

2312ECM_Arlington_866409-1223_6.indd 1 2401ECM_16-21_Jobsite_Intel.indd 17

www.aifittings.com Scranton, PA 18517 800/233-4717 Product Info aifittings.com/landing/ 90-degree-connectors/

11/14/23 12:38 1/11/2024 3:58:06 PMPM

JOB-SITE INTELLIGENCE

Fig. 3. Visibility of the pipeline and backlog.

interrupted installation progress will come into play.

However, there is a way you can pull all these disparate data silos into one place and eliminate the “noise” and redundancy, then accurately evaluate completion rate and productivity to arrive at a reliable projection of labor needs for your jobs and your business.

CHOOSING THE CORRECT BUSINESS SOFTWARE

If you consider what’s happening — and what the software is doing — it isn’t necessarily advantageous to integrate all the business functions in a single suite and leave out the critical operational input.

The key to looking forward and developing a forecast for the future requires the tighter interconnection of the estimators’ and procurement managers’ negotiations and the job-site operational performance decisions of the installation team. While we’re making these connections, let’s not overlook the impacts of production schedules, supply chain delays, and other trades interfering with the installation timeline.

To utilize a high level of digital management support through information technology, your information must be digitized for use by any program.

Your data can then be structured in a way that it can be synchronized (or interconnected in time) between multiple sources and multiple functions.

18

This digitalization and interconnection of data is not dependent on a specific source program or integrated accounting-based software suite. It must reach outside of those tools and provide a platform for real-time operational inputs.

Only with the interconnection of all those negotiations, verbal exchanges, official, and unofficial but active schedule and contract changes can an accurate pipeline and backlog be generated — and subsequently used to project future workload.

Unfortunately, knowing the workload still isn’t enough. Getting from work to manpower projection requires one more significant bit of information: productivity trends. That means not just the rearview of ‘What did I do, and how many hours were required?’ but also the forward-looking projection tells us what work remains at our realized productivity levels. After this inclusion, you can determine how much manpower the project is going to require.

ASTM STANDARD E2691

ASTM offers a job productivity measurement standard (ASTM Standard E2691) that can provide the only recognized means to effectively gather and develop productivity trends, accurately forecast the real burn rate of the work, and subsequently project labor and manpower needs for all known current and future jobs.

Let’s look at an example to further explain this line of thinking.

A contractor with annual sales of roughly $25 million has a current backlog and pipeline of $16 million to $20 million. This number is always changing and requires a structured tool to maintain a real-time value, while both installation progress and estimating awards are updated regularly. For this example, software is used to provide the interconnection of source data. Source data can be interconnected or manually entered from the estimate summary to provide an initial contract value and related labor requirements. Figure 1 on page 16 provides a screenshot of the information that is included.

As the contract is negotiated and updated during preconstruction and early construction, the estimator can manually track the status of all proposed alternates and changes using the changelog functionality that is displayed in Fig. 2 on page 16. The change log allows for recognizing multiple and partial changes and award statuses. The only accurate source for this information is from the people who create, negotiate, accept, and perform it. With the information tracked in the project cards for each project manager, company division, and the overall company, a complete pipeline and backlog report can be generated.

Figure 3 shows the high-level dashboard reporting the value of the

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_16-21_Jobsite_Intel.indd 18

1/11/2024 3:58:08 PM

ARLINGTON ONE-PIECE. SAVES TIME – LOOKS GREAT!

RECESSED IN BOX

®

LOW PROFILE, EXTRA DUTY COVER • TWO STYLES for 1-1/2" and Foam Wall Systems

IN BOX installs in the wall – so less shows outside. Fewer parts to handle. Time savings. A greatlooking job with Arlington’s IN BOX! • Non-metallic, 22.0 cu. in. box with EXTRA-DUTY weatherproof-in-use clear or white cover

DBVMA1W

DBVMA1C clear cover

in fo plicatio ap

IN BOX MEETS 2020 NEC Section 406.9 for protection of exterior outlets which require the use of extra-duty weatherproof-inuse cover for all outdoor 15 or 20 AMP receptacles.

ble usta th p e d

Adj

DBVMA1W white cover

28

INU CONT LATION U INS am sheathnsing

• Accepts single-gang devices; no gaskets required

ADJUSTABLE Depth

Fits ANY foam board on 2-3/4" to 5" wall or custom stucco finishes 1/4" to 2-1/2" thick.

elp for Htaining in in Ma OUS

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/db-series

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

DBVME1W

Built-in FIXED FLANGE

© 2011-2015 Arlington Industries, Inc.

One-piece IN BOX®, the recessed electrical box for exterior use, eliminates installing an electrical box and bubble cover assembly, so you save big on labor and materials.

For 1-1/2" wall systems, including foam.

Eliminates separate flashing.

DBVME1W white cover Patented/Additional patents pending

2312ECM_Arlington_866447-1223_28.indd 1

11/14/23 2:46 PM

SECURE, JOIST-MOUNT INSTALLATION

FAN/FIXTURE PAN BOX FOR 1/2" OR 5/8" DRYWALL WITH FURRING STRIPS OR HAT CHANNEL

Arlington’s convenient fan/fixture pan box works with 1/2", and single or double 5/8" drywall – on furring strips or hat channel.

* 2-HOUR FIRE RATING

• Easy mounting in new work • Fan bracket installation screws ship captive until ready for use

© 2017 Arlington Industries, Inc.

• 14.4 cu. in. UL/CSA Listed

UL rated 70 lb fan • 200 lb fixture CSA 50 lb fan/fixture

32

FB412

• Secure joist-mount installation

Captive fan bracket installation screws

FB412 with 5/8" double drywall

Patented

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866448-1223_32.indd 1 2401ECM_16-21_Jobsite_Intel.indd 19

Product info aifittings.com/catalog/fan-fixture-boxes/fan-fixturemounting-boxes-for-drywall-with-furring-strips-or-hat-channel/FB412

11/14/23 2:50 PM 1/11/2024 3:58:08 PM

JOB-SITE INTELLIGENCE

Fig. 4. Real-time manpower projections.

pipeline and backlog. Additionally, these values can be broken down to see current and future work by division or by project manager.

The bad news is this still isn’t enough information to project your future manpower needs. You need to be able to accurately identify the burn rate at a realistic productivity level. Using work order management software modules (JPAC® and SIS®), electronic interconnections update the remaining backlog in real-time and project the future labor 20

hours to complete the remaining backlog. Figure 4 shows these projections for a sample company.

Having the capability to monitor contract changes as they occur and review bid alternates and proposed change orders/labor impacts of revised schedules in a single projection, regardless of the type of work you do, the type of contracts you sign, who your customers are, and which accounting program you selected has always been the goal of business owners. Extending the projections and

overlapping project labor needs require real-time updates to remaining work at current productivity trends. This example uses DCI Construction® software with interconnection with JPAC® and SIS® along with any available accounting, estimating, project management, scheduling, and CRM tools you may already have in place.

Phil Nimmo is vice president of business development at MCA, Inc. He can be reached at pnimmo@mca.net.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_16-21_Jobsite_Intel.indd 20

1/11/2024 3:58:11 PM

ARLINGTON SAVES TIME • LISTED

SNAP-TITE TRANSITION FITTING ®

ALLOWS CABLE, CONDUIT INSTALLATION IN TIGHT SPACES In a tight spot? Arlington’s new SNAP-TITE® Transition Fitting offers the time-saving solution for installing additional conduit or cable in an already congested panel.

It allows installers to work around tightly spaced, installed fittings in a panel, box or enclosure – where installing and tightening additional locknut fittings would be next to impossible.

2450ST

SNAP-TITE® Transition Fitting

© 2023 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Dry Location Only

Convenient, Time-Saving 2450ST snaps into a 1/2" knockout 2450ST and connects 1/2" trade size threaded fittings or pipe.

Threaded fittings

Patent pending 123 C

Threaded pipe

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

aifittings.com/landing/2450st

2312ECM_Arlington_866403-1223_123.indd 1

11/14/23 11:51 AM

NOW IN THREE COVER SIZES • NON-METALLIC

HOLE COVER KITS RATED FOR 250 LBS

ENSURES COMPLIANCE WITH OSHA Arlington’s non-metallic hole cover kits offer the fastest way to cover a hole – and ensure compliance with OSHA safety standards on a multi-story building site.

Available in three sizes, our hole cover kits come with retaining clips that adjust to fit a range of hole sizes.

Retaining clips

• Reference scale for precise sizing to hole diameter • Complies with OSHA Standard 1910.28 (b) (3) (i) (A)

© 2021 Arlington Industries, Inc.

NEW

" 10.5eter diam3792

• Rated for 250 lb load (top view)

HC

(back)

HC1742 fits 1-3/4" to 4-1/4" opening, HC1762 1-3/4" to 6-1/4” hole HC3792 3-3/4” to 9-1/4” hole

HC1742

73

HC1762 Patent pending

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866437-1223_73.indd 1 2401ECM_16-21_Jobsite_Intel.indd 21

HC1742 clips set for 1-3/4" hole

HC1762 set for 6" hole

Product info aifittings.com/landing/hole-cover-kits

11/14/23 1:46 PM 1/11/2024 3:58:12 PM

INSTALLATION BASICS

G

Dedicated Electrical Spaces About Electrical Equipment

F

A closer look at NEC Sec. 110.26 and IPC 502

By Joseph Alexander, City of Suwanee, Ga.

H

P

Photo 1. Since a water heater encroaches on the dedicated electrical space, this panel will obviously be problematic to work on.

E

lectrical equipment’s dedicated space requirements are an example of an X/Code, defined as a crossover code or when one code affects another. That is the case in this situation because plumbers (and other trades) often place their equipment inside the electrical equipment’s dedicated space, which might not be a code violation for them, but it is a 22

violation of the National Electrical Code (NEC).

The commercial water heater in Photo 1 is only 15 in. from the front of the electrical panel. The NEC requires at least 36 in. of “clear” working space.

In addition, the plumbing code (IPC Sec. 502) states: “Electrical water heaters shall conform to the requirements of this code and provisions of NFPA

70 (the National Electric Code).” This is the cross/code element.

This installation is a triple fail.

First, the plumber should have complied with the requirements in the NEC. Second, the electrician should have been involved in energizing the water heater, and they should have seen the Code violation. Third, this installation should have required a

© 20

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_22-25_Installation_Basics.indd 22

1/11/2024 4:00:01 PM

2312EC

ECONOMICAL • INTERLOCKING

GANGABLE

FLOOR BOX

FOR NEW CONCRETE FLOORS

N E WRS! E

COV

with FLIP LIDS

PLATED, PLASTIC or POWDER-COATED (1) FLBC8530BL Black plastic cover/frame kit (3) FLBC8500 boxes

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS...

FLBC8500 Single gang box

FLBC8500

Co Connections on sides lock single gang FLBC8500 boxes securely together

C STIListed Cover/frame kits

PLA

NOW IN PLASTIC, FIVE Colors!

Black

Black

Gray Brown

Light

Brown

Almond Light Almond

Gray

Reposition hinge.

It’s Easy!

Lock two boxess together for a two-gang box.

Add another for three-gang!

Remove cover R

Build a two- or three-gang concrete floor box by simply locking single gang boxes together!

Then buy the UL LISTED single, two- or three-gang cover/frame kit, with devices included, in PLASTIC, FIVE COLORS – or in economical diecast zinc with a brass or nickel finish.

Fast, easy installation.

Caramel

Caramel

Covers open in Both Directions

Rotate. Reinstall.

Cover installs with hinge on either side.

FLBC8510BR

Made in USA Plastic Cover/frame Kit Single gang FLBC8510BR Brown FLBC8510BL Black FLBC8510GY Gray FLBC8510CA Caramel FLBC8510LA Lt Almond

66

Metal Cover/frame Kit Brass finish Single gang FLBC8510MB Two-gang FLBC8520MB Three-gang FLBC8530MB

Two-gang

Three-gang

FLBC8520BR Brown FLBC8520BL Black FLBC8520GY Gray FLBC8520CA Caramel FLBC8520LA Lt Almond

FLBC8530BR Brown FLBC8530BL Black FLBC8530GY Gray FLBC8530CA Caramel FLBC8530LA Lt Almond

Nickel finish Single gang FLBC8510NL Two-gang FLBC8520NL Three-gang FLBC8530NL

www.aifittings.com Scranton, PA 18517 800/233-4717 © 2017 REV 2022 Arlington Industries, Inc.

2312ECM_Arlington_866405-1223_66.indd 2401ECM_22-25_Installation_Basics.indd 23 1

FLBC8530MB

FLBC8520NL

Patented

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/gangable-box-kits/

11/14/23 12:14 1/11/2024 4:00:02 PMPM

INSTALLATION BASICS

Photo 2. A natural gas line for a gas station is only 17 in. from the electric trough, which is a violation of NEC Sec. 110.26E(2)(b).

Illumination Insider This e-newsletter tracks the research, development, design, installation and operation of all types of lighting and control products.

This twice-a-month product is geared toward professionals working in the industrial, commercial, retail, residential, institutional, health care, government, and utility market sectors.

Subscribe Today See all of our EC&M e-newsletters at www.ecmweb.com

24 ECM-ads.indd 3

permit and inspections. The inspector should have been all over this noncode-compliant installation.

NEC RULES SPECIFIC TO THIS INSTALLATION

110.26(E) Dedicated Equipment Space. All switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, and motor control centers shall be located in dedicated spaces and protected from damage.

110.26 Spaces About Electrical Equipment. Access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.

(A)(1) Depth of working space.

This space shall not be less than 36 inches directly in front of the panel and equal to the width.

(A)(2) Width of the working space. This space shall not be less than the width of the electrical equipment or 30 in. (whichever is greater). In all cases, the workspace shall permit at least a 90° opening of equipment doors or hinged panels.

(E)(1) Indoor dedicated electrical space. The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment and extending from the floor to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower.

Photo 2 demonstrates another violation of the dedicated space rule. A natural gas line for a gasoline station is only 17 inches from the electric trough.

At rough-in, it was not obvious that the gas line was going to be in the dedicated electrical space.

This NEC violation was discovered during the temporary to permanent inspection. It is a violation of Sec. 110.26E(2)(b), which has the same 36- and 30-inch requirements as Sec. 110.26(A). In this situation, the builder had to (reluctantly) relocate the natural gas line. He was not happy about it because “technically” the trough and panels were placed after the gas line was placed — and after the sidewalk was poured.

As an electrical inspector, this does not matter. The installation as completed violated the NEC. We don’t care who was there first. The final product is what matters. In this case, the power cannot be turned on until the gas line is moved out of the dedicated electrical space. This failure was due to the construction superintendent not watching what his subcontractors were doing.

His lack of planning and supervision does not relieve him of complying with the code requirements.

Joseph Alexander, C.B.O., C.F.M, M.C.P., is the chief building official for the City of Suwanee, Ga. He can be reached at JAlexander@suwanee.com.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com 3/30/18 7:04 PM

2401ECM_22-25_Installation_Basics.indd 24

1/11/2024 4:00:03 PM

ARLINGTON ADJUSTABLE BRACKET • FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION

FAN FIXTURE BOX FLUSH CEILING INSTALLATIONS

Arlington’s heavy-duty, plated steel fan/ fixture box has an adjustable bracket that mounts securely between joists spaced 16" to 24" o.c.

© 2004-2013 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Captive screws attach bracket ends to joists

Flush ceiling installations FBRS415 is designed for ceilings up to 1-1/4" thick.

For 1/2" ceilings, use the pre-bent positioning tab.

For other ceiling thicknesses, bend along the appropriate score line.

• 15.6 cu. inch box ships with captive screws, mud cover, installed NM cable connector Fan bracket installation screws

Attach to joists, adjust box position

FBRS415 Patented

UL ratings 70 lb fan/90 lb fixture at 24" oc 70 lb fan/150 lb fixture at 16" oc

41

CSA rated 50 lb fan/fixture at 16" and 24"

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

Captive screws from both sides attach bracket ends to joists

Positions box between joists Positioning tab for 1/2" ceilings

Product info aifittings.com/landing/fbrs415

2312ECM_Arlington_866406-1223_41.indd 1

11/14/23 12:19 PM

ADJUSTABLE • NON-METALLIC • 2-HOUR FIRE RATING

IN/OUT BOX for Fans & Fixtures TM

EASY TO INSTALL... IN NEW CONSTRUCTION Arlington’s IN/OUT™ fan/fixture boxes adjust up to 1-1/2" to accommodate varying ceiling thicknesses, like single or double drywall. FBA426 is Listed for fans up to 70 lbs; fixtures up to 100 lbs.

NEW

• Pre-set for 1/2" ceiling – depth adjustment screw positions the box flush with the ceiling after it’s in place Bracket installation screws ship captive

© 2013 Arlington Industries, Inc.

FBA426 Adjustable Fan/Fixture Box 21.0 cu in

Underside

• Complies with 2020 NEC, 314.20 for set back boxes

• 2-Hour Fire Rating

Depth adjustment screw

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866404-1223_27.indd 1 2401ECM_22-25_Installation_Basics.indd 25

2

• (4) screws attach box securely to joist in new work

20.0 cu in FA426 6

27

1

for Fixturess only up to 50 lbs

Patented 1 Cutaway: Box set back in double drywall 2 Install ceiling.

If necessary use depth adjustment screw to position box flush with ceiling.

Product info aifittings.com/landing/fba426

11/16/23 3:50 PM 1/11/2024 4:00:04 PM

By Joseph Wages, Jr., IAEI

Why pursuing a career as an electrical inspector may make sense for you

E

lectricians spend many years attending apprenticeship school before testing for their electrical license. On top of that, they work under the supervision of licensed electrical professionals to obtain the on-the-job training hours that apply to this endeavor. They provide a vital service toward electrical safety through the work they install and the knowledge and skills they bring to the construction industry.

Most of these individuals start their electrical careers in their early 20s. Many of us can remember those times — we were able to do the physical work associated with the electrical profession and get up the next day recharged and ready to go again. But time has a way of playing cruel tricks on the human body. Those days of getting up and installing 2-inch rigid conduit over your head or 3-inch PVC down in a trench gets harder every year. So what’s your game plan to continue in the electrical profession if your body says no more?

I ask this question all the time to young apprentices or electricians I encounter at trade shows or training events. As you can expect, I get some pretty stone-faced looks from young professionals who have just started out in the trade and consider themselves 10-foot-tall and bulletproof. As you start to experience these changes and progress through the electrical professional, I recommend you consider continuing your journey by becoming an electrical inspector.

26

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 26

1/11/2024 4:01:54 PM

2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 27

1/11/2024 4:01:57 PM

PHYSICAL VERSUS MENTAL WORK

When you consider this transition, it may not occur to you that you will be leaving behind a lot of daily physical work in exchange for more mental work.

Many electricians feel they have a commanding understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Once this transition is made, however, many find out that this may not be the case.

Once you become the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), some things are expected of you. There is a sudden expectation from the contractors in your municipality or jurisdiction that you are an expert on every facet of the rules and ordinances that are in force governing electrical installations.

TRAITS OF A GOOD ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR

A good electrical inspector is developed over many years of training (see the Figure on page 30). Many of these individuals possess a strong understanding of the electrical requirements for installing electrical devices and equipment. This has happened due to being a licensed electrician or electrical contractor for many years.

However, being knowledgeable about the NEC, the National Electrical Installation Standards (NEIS), Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards as well as other documents is not all that is necessary to become a good electrical inspector. Proper communication is important between all parties associated with an electrical installation. A good electrical inspector can easily communicate with contractors, elected officials, and the public. This person has a passion for learning more and more about the electrical industry to ensure the safety of the community in which they serve.

A good inspector is fair and enforces the requirements of the codes and standards consistently. Much like an umpire calling balls and strikes, as long as the inspector is fair and consistent, everyone gets along. As it is in every profession, of course, there are a individuals who give all inspectors a bad name. But this is definitely the exception rather than the norm.

Civility between the contractor and the AHJ is critical. Adversarial relationships are not beneficial to 28

Early Engagement with the IAEI Most electricians learn about the Independent Alliance of the Electrical Industry (IAEI), formerly the International Association of Electrical Inspectors, several years after beginning their electrical careers — in many cases, 20 to 25 years well into their professional careers. This usually happens once a career change is being considered or when they have an opportunity to attend an electrical continuing education course offered by the IAEI toward licensing or certification.

What might happen if these individuals engaged with the IAEI during the beginning of their journey? Maybe there would be a greater understanding of the responsibilities of the inspection authorities and a better working relationship between the two. This would create a relationship between all electrical professionals towards a shared goal of electrically safe electrical installations.

Most electricians and other electrical professionals continue to have a misperception that to be a part of the IAEI one must be an electrical inspector.

This has never been the case in the 90-plus years of the association. During this time, the IAEI has benefited from having members that represent all facets of the electrical industry. This is what has made the IAEI meeting such an incredible and career-advancing event. Members of all phases of the electrical profession discuss the various aspects of the industry with each other.

Learning from each other and taking this knowledge back to their communities and businesses throughout the world.

I would encourage you to engage with the IAEI by becoming a member or attending the various meetings held all around the country. Check your area, and see where the next meeting will be held. Show up and begin the process of building important relationships that will increase your knowledge and understanding of the electrical industry. Receive continuing education toward your license renewal or certification needs. Get a jumpstart on others by getting the electrical certifications that will benefit you when that next electrical inspector position is up for grabs.

maintaining a working relationship. As it was once explained to me by a seasoned building official, “Never wrestle with a pig in the mud. All that will happen is you will get dirty and find out that the pig enjoys it!” No one wins in an adversarial situation, but the AHJ (aka the pig) many times has the final say and enjoys that benefit.

As electrical professionals, we need to build each other up by teaching each other the correct and compliant ways to install or inspect electrical work. Proper training and employing individuals with exceptional expertise, impeccable moral integrity, and a passion for safety will ensure a safe future for everyone involved.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION NEEDS

An electrician may decide that he/she would like to transition into an electrical inspection career. In many cases, this

career change also involves higher salary and benefits.

Each jurisdiction will have specific requirements when looking for a person to fill an inspector’s role. Some want the individual to hold an electrical license. Some are looking for a person who has various certifications from a reputable association showing competence in the construction trades. Strangely enough, some look for someone they can bring in and teach what needs to be done and do not put an emphasis on licensure or certification.

The IAEI has certified electrical inspector certifications that can help you with your career transition. These certifications test an individual on their understanding of the NEC as well as their ability to apply it to everyday situations.

These exams also have a practicum phase portion that the applicant must complete

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 28

1/11/2024 4:01:57 PM

ARLINGTON NON-METALLIC

NEW

ice

Dev Entry h s w Bru g openin

THE SCOOP TM

ENTRANCE PLATES, HOODS, DEVICES E The SCOOP™ series of reversible, non-metallic ENTRANCE HOODS, PLATES AND DEVICES protect cable while delivering good looks and installation versatility. They also reduce labor and eliminate extra connections.

© 2009 REV 2015 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Our newest CABLE ENTRY DEVICES come with or without a wall plate for efficient cable management.

HOODS for decorator-style wall plates, single and two-gang PLATES install facing in or out...and save time!

CED135 Arlington’s TVBU505 TV BOX

19

(with wall plate, order CED135WP)

CED1 facing OUT

• Low voltage cable protection • Best way to run cable

CER1

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866400-1223_19.indd 1

CE1 facing IN

CED130

entry device w slotted cover

CE2 facing OUT

Product info aifittings.com/landing/scoop-series/

Patented

11/14/23 11:16 AM

GALVANIZED STEEL

CABLE SUPPORT

NEW

ECONOMICAL...HOLDS UP TO FOUR MC CABLES • EASY TO INSTALL Nail or screw on CUS6

Foldline (centerline)

Locking tab

Nail or screw to stud through these holes

Bend right side of strap in and over cable

© 2020 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Holds up to four MC cables centered on a 2x4!

Arlington’s economical CUS6 galvanized steel Cable Support holds cable secure and centered on a metal or wood stud.

Insert locking tab here

It’s perfect for fastening and positioning up to four individual metal clad cables – or six NM cables on a 2x4.

Installation is quick and easy. Nail or screw CUS6 to a wood or metal stud, and position the cables. Next bend the strap at the foldline (centerline). Fold the strap over the cables and insert the locking tab in the opening as shown to hold them securely in place.

• Complies with 2020 NEC, article 300.4(D)

22

CUS6 holds FOUR metal cables...or SIX NM cables 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866442-1223_22.indd 1 2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 29

Product info aifittings.com/landing/cus6/

11/14/23 2:20 PM 1/11/2024 4:01:58 PM

30

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 30

1/11/2024 4:02:00 PM

2312EC

STAINLESS STEEL • POP UP COVER

FLOOR BOX KITS EASY RECEPTACLE INSTALLATION • NO DISASSEMBLY!

Cover closes flush

FLBT7200BL

FLBT7200SS

Black stainless steel cover

Stainless steel cover

Arlington’s Pop-up COVER/BOX KITS provide options for installing a device in a floor – or a countertop!

The kits include a 20A receptacle OR you can install one of your own. It’s easy.

Listed as floor box

54

The device installs from the front. There’s no need to dismantle the hinge mechanism.

Just remove the white cover plate, install the receptacle and replace the cover plate.

Gasketed stainless steel or black stainless trapdoor covers close flush with the surface, preventing damage to the device and minimizing trip hazards in a floor installation.

Trapdoor covers close flush with floor

• Easy ‘No Glue’ installation – the spring steel clip holds box securely against the surface when screws are tightened • Fits surfaces up to 1-1/2" thick • Uses standard rectangular receptacle, and GFCI, and GFCI/combination receptacles

Spring steel clip holds box against surface

IP44 Ingress protection

Patent pending

www.aifittings.com Scranton, PA 18517 800/233-4717 © 2023 Arlington Industries, Inc.

2312ECM_Arlington_866410-1223_54.indd 1 2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 31

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/flbt7200-floorbox-kits

11/14/23 12:47 1/11/2024 4:02:01 PMPM

to show competence and understanding of the electrical inspection process. Additional information can be found at the IAEI website by going to www.iaei.org/ page/certification.

The IAEI has also partnered with the ICC to produce the IAEI/ICC Electrical Inspector Joint Certification Program.

Certificate holders can expect to receive recognition in the U.S. nationally, experience increased job opportunities, and improve mobility within the building safety industry. For additional information, visit the ICC website at https://www. iccsafe.org/professional-development/ icc-iaei-electrical-inspector-joint-certification-program/.

Another resource that will aid in the development of individuals wanting to transition into the electrical inspection field is a book produced by the IAEI entitled “Becoming the Electrical Inspector.”

This book contains information about state licensing and certification requirements, benefits (such as hourly pay and vacation), public speaking skills, and much more.

2401ECM_OrbitIndustries.indd 132 2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd

THE FUTURE IS UP TO YOU.

It is often said that when you find a job you love, you’ll never work another day in your life. But when the time comes that you don’t want to roll out of bed and install that cable tray system or pull that 500 kcmil conductor into an underground raceway, think about becoming an electrical inspector. It is a great way to transition into another electrical professional career that desperately needs you. The safety of future electrical installations as well as the safety of the public need your years of knowledge and dedication. Electrical professionals around the world are depending on you to answer this call.

Wages is the director of digital education for IAEI. He represents IAEI on NFPA’s NEC Code Making Panel-2 for the 2020 NEC. He also serves on the UL Electrical Council and on several UL Technical Standard Panels. Wages, Jr., is an ICC certified building official and an IAEI certified electrical inspector for one- and two-family dwellings. He can be reached at jwages@iaei.org

A good inspector is fair and enforces the requirements of the codes and standards consistently. Much like an umpire calling balls and strikes, as long as the inspector is fair and consistent, everyone gets along.

1/3/24 8:44 1/11/2024 4:02:02 PMAM

2312EC

LISTED • LOOKS GREAT • SAVES TIME

ADJUSTABLE SLIDERBAR

™

NOW

WITH FLAT BRACKETS

SL24F fits 15"-24" spacing

Adjustable SLIDERBAR

SL18F fits 12"-18" spacing Patent pending

SAVES 20 MINUTES PER BOX

The NEAT Way to Mount Single or Two-gang Metal and Plastic Boxes

Here’s the easy way to mount single or two-gang boxes between wood or metal studs with non-standard stud cavities.

Arlington’s steel SliderBar™ looks great and saves about 20 minutes per box over cutting, nailing and placing extra 2x4s!

It’s available in two styles – with pre-bent brackets – or FLAT BRACKET ends. And in two adjustable sizes for studs spaced 12 to 18 inches – or 15 to 24 inches apart.

The extra convenient SliderBar with FLAT brackets comes with a steel mounting bracket for installing almost any metal box, and our plastic SLB101 and SLB102 boxes, on the bar anywhere in the stud cavity.

Use the SL18BKT mounting bracket.to add another metal box on FLAT SliderBar. Metal boxes mounted on SliderBar are rated for non-metallic and MC, AC and Flexible Metal Clad cable

• Guides on bracket ends assure proper positioning on studs • Interlocking tab stop prevents accidental disassembly • Pre-punched pilot holes on BOTH sides of SliderBar allow for easy attachment of boxes SL18F FLAT SLIDERBAR KIT Adjusts to fit between studs, 12" to 18" o.c.

SL24F FLAT SLIDERBAR KIT Adjusts to fit between studs, 15" to 24" o.c.

SL18F, SL24F include flat SliderBar, steel mounting bracket, (2) #8 x 1/2” screws SL18BKT Steel Mounting Bracket w mounting screws SLB101 PLASTIC BOX Single gang • pre-formed screw holes SLB102 PLASTIC BOX Two gang • pre-formed screw holes

91

www.aifittings.com Scranton, PA 18517 800/233-4717

© 2023 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Attach mounting bracket to box.

Bend SliderBar bracket ends 90°.

Bend ends again along guides to desired wall board thickness.

Slide box into SliderBar channel BEFORE bending bracket ends.

Product info aifittings.com/landing/sliderbar

8:44 AM

2312ECM_Arlington_866433-1223_91.indd 1 2401ECM_26-33_Cover_Story.indd 33

11/14/23 1:31 1/11/2024 4:02:03 PMPM

S

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

Y

By Russ LeBlanc, NEC Consultant ear after year, EC&M readers continue to rank the National Electrical Code (NEC) as the mostimportant 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.

©

34

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 34

1/11/2024 4:04:24 PM

2312EC

ST EEL

2 Snap it connectorS ®

NO TOOLS

NEW!

ONE-PIECE ALL STEEL

EASY SNAP IN INSTALLATION

TINTED 40STS

38STS

Arlington’s new, one-piece Snap2It® steel connectors offer easy, secure installation. And save time! Just push the cable into the connector and rotate it clockwise.

Available in 3/8" trade size, both connectors install into a 1/2" knockout, and are listed for steel and aluminum AC, HCF, MCI and MCI-A cable.

The tinted 40STS has more room inside for easier cable insertion.

In Canada both connectors are Listed for use with AC90 and ACG90 cable.

• Tested to UL 514B and Listed to meet UL ground fault requirements • Removable Unscrew the connector counterclockwise to remove it from the cable. Remove the connector from the box using a flat blade screwdriver.

Release the snap tangs from the inside of the box while pulling the connector out of the knockout.

• Packed in heavy-duty, 200 piece boxes

Easy Snap-in Insertion

Easy Screwdriver Removal NO SPECIAL TOOL

CATALOG NUMBER

120

38STS

CABLE RANGES STEEL Snap2It® connectors AC, HCF, MCI, MC!-A 14/2 w ground, 14/3, 14/2 12/2 w ground, 12/3, 12/2 • 10/2 w ground, 10/3, 10/2

.405” Dia. Minimum to .605” Dia. Maximum 40STS Tinted

AC, HCF, MCI, MC!-A 12/2 w ground, 12/3, 12/2 • 10/2 w ground, 10/3, 10/2

.480” Dia. Minimum to .605” Dia. Maximum

Patented. Other patents pending. © 2023 Arlington Industries, Inc.

2312ECM_Arlington_866434-1223_120.indd 1 2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 35

www.aifittings.com • 800/233-4717 Scranton, PA 18517 Product info aifittings.com/landing/38STS-40STS

11/14/23 1:35 1/11/2024 4:04:25 PMPM

THE 10 CRAZIEST CODE VIOLATIONS OF 2023

NO ROOM FOR ERROR Section 440.14 was revised in the 2023 NEC to address installations such as these. The disconnects for each one of these air conditioning units were installed directly behind the unit, leaving almost no room for service personnel to safely work on them. This is now an unquestionable violation of Sec. 440.14.

The disconnecting means must meet the working space requirements of Sec. 110.26(A). This means there must be at least 3 ft of depth, 30 in. of width, and 6.5 ft of working space height in front of each disconnect to provide personnel some space to troubleshoot, examine, adjust, service, or otherwise maintain this equipment while it is energized. This revision is a great step in promoting a safer working environment. In previous editions of the Code, the requirements of Sec. 110.26(A) may not have always been applied uniformly to air conditioning disconnects. Some installers and inspectors were not requiring the Sec. 110.26(A) working space for disconnects that did not contain overcurrent devices such

as fuses or circuit breakers. With the new wording in Sec. 440.14, the type of disconnect installed no longer matters.

BIRD IS THE WORD

While there may not be any specific Code rules about preventing birds from nesting in a weatherhead, there are plenty of other applicable rules we could discuss. Section 230.54(A) 36

requires ser vice raceways to be equipped with a service head at the point of connection to overhead service conductors or service drop conductors.

The service head (or weatherhead)

Hopefully, this revised wording will be easier for installers and inspectors to understand and apply.

must be listed for use in wet locations.

With the insulator popped out of this weatherhead, rain and snow are much more likely to enter and run down the inside of this raceway and potentially cause damage to equipment connected to it. Section 230.54(C) requires the service head to be located above the point of attachment of the overhead service conductors or service-drop conductors. This service head is below the point of attachment, and the exception would not be applicable here, as there is no practical reason to have this raceway stop where it did. One other concern is the cracked insulation on the conductors where they exit the service head. Water can now seep into those cracks and flow underneath the conductor insulation as if it was a hose.

This can lead to serious damage at the terminals where these conductors are connected. Section 310.10(D) requires insulated conductors exposed to sunlight to be listed as sunlight resistant or covered with a sleeve or tape that is sunlight resistant.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 36

1/11/2024 4:04:29 PM

ARLINGTON NON-METALLIC • VENTED FOR EASIER STACKABILITY

CONCRETE PIPE SLEEVE THE EASY, ECONOMICAL WAY TO SLEEVE THROUGH CONCRETE POURS!

Arlington’s Concrete Pipe Sleeves are the economical way to sleeve through concrete pours in tilt-up construction WALLS – and FLOORS allowing cable and conduit to run easily from one floor to the next.

No costly core drilling – No cutting holes in the form.

Plus, you can position the hole prior to pouring the concrete.

CPS40 Pipe Sleeve for 4" hole

• Attaches to form with nails or screws • Stackable up to 23" h for extra deep pours • Vents keep wet pipe sleeves from sticking together

CPS40

© 2007/REV2014 Arlington Industries, Inc.

• Multiple hole sizes: 1-1/2" • 2" • 3" • 4" • 5" • 6"

21 Nail sleeve to form.

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866432-1223_21.indd 1

After concrete sets, cut sleeve flush with surface.

Product info aifittings.com/landing/concrete-pipe-sleeve

11/14/23 1:21 PM

UV RESISTANT • 100% RECYCLED MATERIAL

ROOF TOPPER

NEW SLED STYLES

®

RELIABLE ROOFTOP SUPPORT OF CONDUIT, CABLE TRAY ROOF TOPPER® supports raise conduit/raceway 4" or more off the roof surface, allowing contractors to comply with the 2017 NEC® for temperature adjustment for circular conduit.

RTSE405 5" w

5-5/8" H RTSE409 9" w

The heavy-duty base, made of 100% recycled material, sits on the roof deck.

There’s no need to mount ROOF TOPPER to the surface with mechanical fasteners.

RTS4

Offered in a variety of sizes and configurations, ROOF TOPPER supports up to 2000 lbs, and stands up to extreme rooftop conditions protecting and elevating conduit or raceway above the roof deck.

5-5/8" H RTS4

STRUT ATTACHED w END CLAMPS RTSE1209 9" w x 12" h

12" H

9" wide

RTS421

t

© 2011-2015 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Insert conduit into sleeve.

114

Ra Raceway raised 12" 12 above the roof

21" w

RTS12 9" w

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866443-1223_114.indd 1 2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 37

Product info aifittings.com/landing/rooftopper

RTS1221 21" w

Patented

11/14/23 2:57 PM 1/11/2024 4:04:29 PM

THE 10 CRAZIEST CODE VIOLATIONS OF 2023

A BUNDLE OF BAD INSTALLATIONS

There are several problems to discuss here. We can start with the missing

covers from the junction box and PVC conduit body (i.e., LB). For completed

installations, Sec. 314.15 requires each box to have a cover, faceplate, lampholder, or luminaire canopy. That same Section in the Code requires conduit bodies, such as the LB, to be installed with a cover, lampholder, or device.

Next, let’s focus on the broken rigid PVC conduits. For areas where rigid PVC conduit is exposed to physical damage, Schedule 80 PVC conduit should be installed as specified in Sec. 352.10(K). Installing expansion fittings where these conduits emerge from grade was a great idea and is now a requirement of Sec. 352.44(B), but even the expansion fittings could not prevent all types of damage to the conduits.

Lastly, you can’t use liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit (LFNC) with PVC conduit fittings. Section 356.42 restricts fittings used with LFNC to only those fittings listed for use with LFNC. PVC conduit fittings are not listed for use with LFNC. Using fittings with the wrong wiring method is also a violation of Sec. 300.15 and Sec. 110.3(B).

INSTALLERS CUTTING CORNERS This is another example of an alltoo-common violation I encounter.

Using a raceway to support a bundle of cables in this manner is not permitted.

There are several rules we can look at here. First, Sec. 300.11(C) permits raceways to be used as a support for cables but only under very specific conditions, of which, none apply here.

Next, Sec. 358.12(2) prohibits using electrical metallic tubing (EMT) to support luminaires or other equipment except conduit bodies no larger than the trade size of the EMT. Additionally, Sec. 722.24(A) requires the installation of cables used for Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited circuits, power-limited fire alarm (PLFA) circuits, and Class 4 fault-managed power circuits to conform to Sec. 300.11. Section 722.24(B) also prohibits these cables from being secured to the exterior of any conduit or raceway as a means of support. For optical fiber cables, Sec. 770.133(D) prohibits this type of installation too.

Lastly, for communication circuits, Sec. 800.133(C) prohibits communica38

tions wires and cables and CATV-type coaxial cables from being strapped, taped, or attached by any means to the

exterior of any raceway as a means of support. Installers ignored all those rules here.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 38

1/11/2024 4:04:33 PM

ARLINGTON RECESSED FOR FLUSH-TO-THE-WALL MOUNTING OF LED, HI-DEF TVs

STEEL TV BOX™KIT CO M B O BOXES FOR USE WI TH METAL RACEWAYS Arlington’s recessed STEEL combination power/low voltage TV BOX™ is the best way to mount an LED or Hi-Def TV flush against a wall.

retrofit

Mounting wing screws hold box in the wall

© 2008-2020 Arlington Industries, Inc.

TV BOX provides power and/or low voltage in one or more of the openings.

Plugs and connectors stay inside the box, without extending past the wall.

Designed for use in new or retrofit commercial construction where metal raceway is used, we have a STEEL TV BOX for almost any application!

New work

2-GANG TVBS505

• Steel box; non-metallic paintable white trim p plate • Easy, secure installation

!

NEW 1-GANG TVBS503

• Optional covers

Mounting screws hold box on stud

Patented

3-GANG TVBS507

98

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/recessed-tv-boxes

2312ECM_Arlington_866438-1223_98.indd 1

11/14/23 1:50 PM

VERTICAL OR HORIZONTAL • FOR RETROFIT & NEW WORK

Plastic & Steel 8X10 TV BOX

TM

PERFECT FOR HOME THEATER SYSTEMS

TVBU810 PLASTIC TV BOX™

Arlington’s 8X10 TV Box™ with a Plastic or Steel Box offers the ultimate in versatility for installing TVs in new and retrofit projects. There's more room in the box for wires and it installs horizontally or vertically to properly position low voltage connections behind the TV.

Mounts to stud in NEW work

© 2012 REV0314 Arlington Industries, Inc.

• Ideal for home theater systems: multiple connections for sound systems, satellite TV, CATV, DVRs • Brackets for neater cables, with a 1-1/2" knockout for ENT and other low voltage wiring • Box mounts to stud in new work; for retrofit, mounting wing screws secure box in wall

97

Ample space for multiple low voltage connections

TVBU810 w/ plastic box

TVBS810 w steel box

Secure installation in RETROFIT

Kit includes plastic or steel box, trim plate, duplex receptacle, line voltage box, wall plates, cable entry device, knockout plugs

Patented 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866399-1223_97.indd 1 2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 39

Product info aifittings.com/landing/TVBU810

11/14/23 11:05 AM 1/11/2024 4:04:34 PM

THE 10 CRAZIEST CODE VIOLATIONS OF 2023

There is not much left of the flexible metal conduit (FMC) that was originally used to wire the lights and switch for this utility room. Excessive humidity has taken its rusty toll on this equipment. The luminaires and switch box are severely rusted too. Section 300.6 requires raceways, boxes, cabinets, elbows, couplings, fittings, supports, support hardware, and other equipment to be made of materials suitable for the environment where they are installed. Perhaps installing nonmetallic raceways, boxes, and luminaires in this humid environment would have prevented the rapid deterioration of the installation.

With the FMC completely rusted out, the bonding and grounding connections required throughout Art. 250 are left in doubt. The lack of an effective ground-fault current path as required by Sec. 250.4(A)(5) could lead to an increased risk of shock if there is no way for fault current to return to the source and trip the breaker. The supports for the box have also rusted through, and the box is now hanging by the wires and rusted FMC. I’m sure this box originally complied with the support requirements of Sec. 314.23, but the way it’s dangling now creates a violation.

RUSTED RACEWAYS

ALLEY WHOOPS! I spotted this installation while walking through an alleyway on a recent visit to a big city near me. The air conditioning unit sitting on the brackets made of strut (below the windows) has no disconnecting means anywhere within sight.

Section 440.14 requires a disconnecting means to be located within sight from — and readily accessible from — the air-conditioning or refrigeration equipment. Exception No. 1 allows the disconnecting means to be located remote from the air-conditioning or refrigeration equipment if the equipment is essential to an industrial process at a facility with written safety procedures and qualified people if the disconnect is lockable in accordance with Sec. 110.25. This is a residential building, so Exception No. 1 is not applicable.

The power for this unit is being supplied by what appears to be a UF cable secured to the refrigerant lines with cable ties. Section 225.21 refers installers to the requirements in Sec. 230.51 when installing multiconductor cables on the surfaces of buildings or structures. There does not appear to be any Code sections that specifically prohibit installing and supporting UF cables in this manner. However, Sec. 340.12(9) prohibits installing UF in direct sunlight unless the cable is identified as being sunlight resistant.

40

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 40

1/11/2024 4:04:37 PM

ARLINGTON STEEL BOX WITH BRASS COVER

LISTED SINGLE GANG

FLOOR BOX KITS CONVENIENT, FLUSH-TO-THE-FLOOR RECEPTACLE INSTALLATION Arlington’s STEEL FLOOR BOX KITS give installers a low cost, convenient way to install a receptacle in a new or existing floor.

© 2016 Arlington Industries, Inc.

FLB5331NL Single gang steel box kit w nickel-plated brass cover

Our Listed Single Gang Steel Floor Boxes deliver easy, flush-to-the-floor installation.

• Brass covers hide miscut flooring; gaskets prevent water intrusion; flip lids protect the box when it’s not in use.

• Single gang brass and nickel-plated Brass Covers fit our boxes and other manufacturers’ single gang boxes.

Covers also sold separately.

FLB5331MB Single gang steel box kit w brass cover

for NEW or existing floors

FLB5331MB Single gang Kit w brass cover

119

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

Product info aifittings.com/landing/flb5331-flb5551-kits

2312ECM_Arlington_866439-1223_119.indd 1 Patented/other patents pending

11/14/23 1:58 PM

IN BOX RECESSED COVER KITS ®

!

EW

N

INSTALLS INSIDE 4.5" CONCRETE BOXES

Arlington’s IN BOX® Recessed Cover Kits are the neat way to install a receptacle in an installed 4.5" concrete floor box, including our FLBC4500 or FLBC4502 boxes.

FLBC4560DNL

Plugs stay inside recessed cover

IN BOX covers install fast, inside the can reducing trip hazards caused by plugs sticking out of the box. They look great.

And, you can have power and low voltage in the same box.

Assembled IN BOX, comes with matching in-use slotted cover and cover blank for unused boxes in brass or nickel-plated brass

Slotted in-use cover

FLBC4560DMB Brass

FLBC4560DNL Nickel-plated

Cover blank

Slotted cover

© 2018 Arlington Industries, Inc.

FLBC4560DBR Brown

...and plastic in FIVE colors.

FLBC4560DMB FLBC4500 FLOOR BOX FOR NEW CONCRETE

57

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866440-1223_57.indd 1 2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 41

Easy to install in concrete box

FLBC4560DGY FLBC4560DCA Gray FLBC4560DBL Caramel Black

Product info aifittings.com/landing/inbox-cover-kits/

FLBC4560DLA Light almond

Patented

11/14/23 2:11 PM 1/11/2024 4:04:38 PM

THE 10 CRAZIEST CODE VIOLATIONS OF 2023

P

FLOOR OUTLET FOLLIES

I spotted these interesting outlets on the floor of an outside seating area for a restaurant. In seating areas, Sec. 406.5(H) prohibits receptacles from being installed in a face-up position unless installed in either a listed floor box, an assembly listed for countertop applications, an assembly listed for commercial or household furnishings, or an assembly listed as a furniture power distribution unit. Section 314.27(B) requires listed floor boxes to be used for receptacles installed in floors. This receptacle appears to be mistakenly installed in a general-purpose device box rather than a listed floor box.

Section 406.9(B) requires the use of weather-resistant (WR)

type receptacles in damp locations such as this. For 2023, Sec. 406.4(G) requires physical protection for floor receptacles to allow floor-cleaning equipment to be used without damaging the receptacle. Running a floor-cleaning machine over this receptacle could cause serious damage to the receptacle.

Additionally, Sec. 210.8(B)(6) requires GFCI protection for these receptacles. This incorrectly installed, face-up floor receptacle certainly poses an increased risk of shock and fire.

At least the installer took more care when installing the tele/ data outlet. That pop-up enclosure seems more appropriate for installations in floors.

A NOT-SO-COOL INSTALLATION I’m assuming that this panelboard was installed before the HVAC installer ran the refrigerant lines for the air conditioning equipment. He should have found a better place to run those lines because he created a violation of the dedicated space requirements in Sec. 110.26(E)(1)(a) by installing them directly above the panelboard enclosure. The space directly above this panelboard (extending to 6 ft above the panelboard or to the structural ceiling if lower) is reserved for the electrical installation. No piping, leak protection equipment, ducts, or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation is permitted to be located in this zone. This dedicated space also extends down to the floor level. The electrician who installed the NM cables entering the top of this enclosure also made some mistakes.

The NM cables are not properly supported and secured within 12 in. of the cabinet, as required

by Sec. 334.30. There are also several low-voltage cables strewn about this area, and they are not installed as professionally and skillfully as they should have been as required by newly revised Sec. 110.12. In a bit of a twist, when installing Class 2 and Class 3 cables, Sec. 722.24(A) still uses the language “neat and workmanlike,” which was removed from Sec. 110.12 for 2023.

42

January 2023 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 42

1/11/2024 4:04:41 PM

2401EC

SAVE TIME. NO TOOLS. EASY PUSH ON INSTALLATION

PUSH-ON CONNECTORS !

NEW g r er

for NON-METALLIC LIQUID-TIGHT CONDUIT TYPE B

La izes S

1.25"•1.5"•2" Non-metallic PUSH ON

NMLT20 2"

vs

NO TOOLS!

Conventional installation

NMLT50

SAVE 40 seconds per connector!

DONE. NON-METALLIC

Save time and money with Arlington’s plastic or zinc Snap2It® push on connectors. They offer the fastest, easiest installation on non-metallic liquid-tight conduit, type B. FORGET the TOOLS! Simply push the connector on to conduit. That’s it!

Competitively priced, they’re removable and reusable too.

93A

Straight and 90° 1/2", 3/4" and 1" trade sizes* NEW LARGER Non-metallic sizes 1-1/4", 1-1/2" and 2"

LARGER

You’ll get a super-secure, liquid-tight seal.

Plus, they ship fully assembled – No disassembly required.

NMLT12 1-1/4"

Catalog Number

Trade Size

NMLT5 NMLT905 NMLT7 NMLT907 NMLT10 NMLT9010 NMLT12 NMLT9012 NMLT15 NMLT9015 NMLT20 NMLT9020

1/2" 1/2" 3/4" 3/4" 1" 1" 1-1/4" 1-1/4" 1-1/2" 1-1/2" 2" 2"

Straight 90°

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

* Also available in zinc for metallic Patented.

Other patents pending

and non-metallic liquid-tight conduit, type B

www.aifittings.com Scranton, PA 18517 800/233-4717 Product Info aifittings.com/landing/nmlt20

2401ECM_Arlington_8803640124_93A.indd 1 2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 43

© 2012 REV1223 Arlington Industries, Inc.

12/20/23 3:20 1/11/2024 4:04:42 PMPM

THE 10 CRAZIEST CODE VIOLATIONS OF 2023

A CREATIVE WIRING SOLUTION

While this installation does show some creativity and imagination, using what appears to be gas piping or gas pipe fittings as a wiring method is not recognized by the Code.

Section 110.8 informs us that only suitable wiring methods are included in the Code. There is no Article in Chapter 3 covering gas piping as a wiring method. The box installed for the luminaire is not suitable for this outdoor wet location and does not comply with the requirements of Sec. 314.15. Boxes installed in wet locations such as this must be listed for use in wet locations. The manner in which this box is supported does not comply with any of the provisions specified in Sec. 314.23(A) through (H). Section 314.23(F) Exception No. 2 provides very specific requirements for using one threaded intermediate metal conduit (IMC) or rigid metal conduit (RMC) for the support of a box, but this installation does not comply with those requirements. The cover on the lower box where the photocell is mounted is only secured to the box with one screw, does not provide a weatherproof enclosure, and allows moisture to enter the box. This loose cover does not comply with Sec. 314.15 either.

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY

This installation shows us an excellent example of why Sec. 300.6 exists in the Code. That Section requires, among other items, raceways, cable armor, boxes, fittings, supports, support hardware, cabinets, boxes, and other enclosures to be made of materials suitable for the environment where they are installed. For ferrous metal equipment, Sec. 300.6(A) requires these items to be protected against corrosion on the inside and outside by an approved corrosion-resistant coating. Whatever coating was used on this equipment did not seem to fare very well. Rust has eaten away the bottom of the disconnecting means to the point where the raceway has completely separated from the enclosure, leaving the conductors exposed to being damaged from the jagged edges of the rusty metal enclosure. Rain and moisture can now easily enter the meter socket enclosure, increasing the risk of shock and fire. The rays of the sun can also wreak havoc with the exposed conductor insulation too. The lack of electrical continuity and mechanical connection between the raceway and enclosure now violates Sec. 300.10 requirements along with many bonding and grounding requirements in Art. 250.

I don’t think either of these enclosures complies with the requirements in Sec. 312.2 anymore.

44

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 44

1/11/2024 4:04:45 PM

ARLINGTON NO TOOLS • EASY SNAP-IN INSTALLATION • SAVES TIME!

SNAP2IT® CONNECTORS FOR RETROFIT INSTALLATIONS Arlington’s new one-piece RETROFIT SNAP2IT® fittings are easy to use in an OLD WORK installation, and handle the widest variety of cables! They’re ideal for adding additional circuits to a load center. And you get the same labor-savings in a retrofit installation!

© 2014 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Easy snap-in installation - NO TOOLS. Install connector into the knockout in an existing box, pulling cable/conduit through the knockout. Slip the fitting onto the cable, then snap the assembly into the box. That’s it... a secure installation with no pullout.

Widest total cable ranges 14/2 to 10/3 Widest variety of cables AC, MC, HCF, MC continuous corrugated aluminum cable, MCI-A cables (steel and aluminum), AC90, ACG90 and FLEX

W!

NE

Snap connector onto installed MC cable.

40RAST

Snap assembly into box. Done!

8

38RAST

Patented

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

Product info aifittings.com/landing/38rast-40rast/

2312ECM_Arlington_866444-1223_8.indd 1

11/14/23 2:25 PM

A NEAT COVER UP...

NON-METALLIC BOX COVER © 2002 Arlington Industries, Inc. REV 1118

Patented.

FOR UNUSED FAN/FIXTURE BOXES – FITS PAN BOXES TOO!

CP3540 Box Cover

Our non-metallic, paintable CP3540 Box Cover is the neatest way to cover unused fan/fixture boxes, pan boxes or poorly cut drywall.

Versatile bracket design with ‘A’ and ‘B’ openings for use on flat or uneven ceilings.

• No visible screws on ceiling plate 20

Easy installation. Attach the e bracket to the box with #8 or • Fits 3.5", 4" round #10 screws. Back the screws out enough or octagonal boxes to slip the bracket on.

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866445-1223_20.indd 1 2401ECM_34-45_Violations.indd 45

‘A’ for flat ceilings Push stud into opening to seat cover

Versatile Bracket Design

Patented

Stud

‘B’ for uneven or textured ceilings Thread stud into opening until tight

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/CP3540

11/14/23 2:29 PM 1/11/2024 4:04:46 PM

Does your client know how to operate its lighting control system? If training wasn’t part of your contract, maybe it should have been.

By Ruth Taylor, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

F

acility owners are making major investments in lighting controls because the intended results are so attractive: energy code compliance, important energy savings, and the benefits of advanced technology. But how well is the investment performing, and who has been trained to keep that expensive system in good working order?

The performance and resiliency of lighting control systems are critical for all involved: those who design the system, install and set it up, use it, and maintain its effectiveness. System performance also matters to owners who paid for the system and expect it to perform as intended. Problems that annoy occupants (such as misbehaving sensors) are often reported to facility personnel. In other cases, users may not recognize that something is wrong. And sometimes, there’s no problem — users simply don’t know that, for example, the lights can be dimmed, because the function isn’t clearly indicated on the control (Photo 1).

When lighting controls fail to meet expectations — and they do to a remarkable degree — it often turns out that users and facility personnel don’t know how to use the system and maintain it. Dissatisfaction blows back on all involved, with installing electrical contractors and facility/maintenance personnel usually taking the brunt of the blame.

Waist-deep in problems, many facility personnel opt for a “solution” that lets them move on to the next emergency.

With training and practice, however, 46

Photo 1. Users gang up on a malfunctioning wall control.

many problems can be addressed more constructively. Training takes expertise, time, and commitment — not to mention money.

THE CHALLENGE: TRAINING IS VALUABLE BUT NOT FREE

To build a capable maintenance team, facility owners should insist on training regarding their lighting control systems and expect to pay for the time/ expertise to plan and deliver this training. Contractors and suppliers can help

by making customer-focused training a part of their proposals. With advanced controls, an investment in training for staff could pay for itself in short order.

Training is valuable but not free.

Owners and managers may be less likely to permit staff to miss training if it’s clear that it’s been paid for.

WHERE TO START

The ideal providers for lighting control training are those who are both comfortable with the installed system(s)

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_46-51_PNNL.indd 46

1/11/2024 4:10:46 PM

ARLINGTON UL LISTED • 2-HOUR FIRE RATING

LISTED BOX EXTENDERS E X T E N D S S E T B A C K B O X E S U P TO 1- 1 / 2 I N C H E S

Arlington’s UL/CSA Listed Box Extenders extend set back electrical boxes up to 1-1/2".

BE2

Made of heavy-duty, non-conductive plastic, they level and support wiring devices, protecting wires against damage and stripping.

BE1R

BE1

BE4

BE3

BE1R for round or octagonal boxes, the single-gang (BE1), two-gang (BE2) for all standard devices, switches and GFCIs and three- and four-gang box extenders for multiple gang boxes!

Try them all, including our Patented ‘Larger Flange’ one-, two-, three- and four-gang styles, for the safe, easy way to obtain Listed installations in set back boxes!

Larger Flanges BE1

BE2X

for use with Metallic and Non-Metallic boxes

© 2018 Arlington Industries, Inc.

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/box-extenders/

2312ECM_Arlington_867648-1223_16.indd 1

POWER & LOW VOLTAGE

LOWEST COST • L-SHA PED

11/14/23 3:02 PM

COMBO BOX

FAN/FIXTURE BOX

FOR RETROFIT PROJECTS

SECURE MOUNTING TO SINGLE, DOUBLE JOISTS

Patented

UL rated fans up to 70 lbs; fixtures to 200 lbs.

This convenient combo box has power and low voltage openings in the same box for a neat, time-saving installation.

The box adjusts to fit wall thicknesses from 1/4" to 1-1/2".

Mounting wing screws hold it securely in place.

LVDR2

• 2-Hour Fire Rating

• Includes NM cable connector (power side)

No loose parts! Installation screws ship captive, ready to install box and bracket.

Product info aifittings.com/ landing/ combo-boxes

84

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

2312ECM_Arlington_866407-1223_84.indd 1 2401ECM_46-51_PNNL.indd 47

© 2013 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Installed NM cable connector

• Low voltage side has a combo 1/2" and 3/4" KO for raceway

Super-secure installation!

Our lowest cost, L-shaped fan/fixture box mounts to single or double joists with a captive center screw.

FB442 13.4 cu. inch

• For 1/2" or 5/8" drywall • Fast, easy installation

Patented

36

• Locator posts assure proper positioning of fan/fixture bracket

• 2-hour Fire Rating Product info aifittings.com/landing/joist-mount-fan-fixture-box

11/14/23 2312ECM_Arlington_866408-1223_36.indd 10:48 AM 1

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

© 2001-2016 Arlington Industries, Inc.

16

(patented)

BE1X

11/14/23 10:38 AM 1/11/2024 4:10:47 PM

S about access to resources and the ability to communicate clearly to contract specialists about system details and specific problems? Organized training addresses these issues and develops the foundation for maintaining a healthy lighting control system (Photo 2).

The operation of lighting control systems typically touches three parts of the organization: the electrical maintenance team, IT (which often “owns” some of the infrastructure), and front-line facilities leadership. Small organizations with limited staff may need to cross-train generalists. When using a maintenance contractor, it also makes sense to include system-specific training for anyone assigned to the facility.

Photo 2. Members of the maintenance staff participate in a wall controls training session.

and experienced in communicating technical material to those who are not familiar with it.

Likely trainer candidates are those who set the system up. This might be a field technician from the manufacturer of the system or the organization that sold it. For complex projects, the system integrator would be a good choice. Nevertheless, it’s worth insisting on resources who possess both technical and training skills; you don’t want to train the trainers. Local electrical firms and sales agencies may be interested in maintaining a continuing relationship with facility owners, and their field techs typically have more flexibility in scheduling their time to assist with training.

EFFECTIVE TRAINING STARTS AT THE TOP

You have heard it before: In busy organizations, there’s never enough time for training; problems are addressed (or not) one at a time. Effective training requires commitment from the top.

Senior facilities managers need to make the maintained performance of the lighting control system a priority, not just another line on the “to-do” list.

Identify the manager (or managers) responsible for training. Require a detailed training program, and make it realistic. Then follow up to see that the program is implemented and ongoing.

Finally, measure the results, and hold those in charge accountable — for success as well as system failures. Faster 48

SCHEDULING

Look for a time when facilities personnel are available and already have some familiarity with the system. Scheduling immediately after a new facility is turned over and opened may place training in direct conflict with the multitude of demands faced by maintenance staff trying to bring every building system online at the same time.

PROGRAM CONTENT

Training program content depends, of course, on the system(s) installed and the experience and technical knowledge of facility personnel. For the more experienced, training might jump right into the installed system. Less experienced personnel may benefit from learning the manufacturer’s technical vocabulary to be able to understand technical documents.

Photo 3. A maintenance worker adjusts a wall control device.

times to successful resolution can assess training effectiveness better than the number of hours spent viewing videos or sitting in class.

PARTICIPANTS

True system resiliency depends on the ability of facilities personnel to anticipate problems and respond promptly and appropriately. Training a few staff members may result in an effective response to individual problems as they arise. What about the remainder of the staff, the press of other priorities, and unfamiliar contingencies? And what

BASIC TRAINING OUTLINE

Troubleshooting as a discipline. Identifying problems in lighting control systems tends to be less intuitive than for other electrical systems. A good training program begins by instilling a step-by-step approach, documenting each system response, and developing the ability to communicate clearly about system conditions and problems (Photo 3).

System architecture. Facilities personnel should understand the principal components of the control system, what these components do, where they are located, and how they interconnect.

The training program should explain how to read a controls single-line diagram and manufacturer’s operation and

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_46-51_PNNL.indd 48

1/11/2024 4:10:49 PM

2312EC

SNAP2IT® CONNECTORS E AS IE ST C AB LE I NSERTI ON • N O TOOLS • S E CURE H O L D

17

SAVE

seconds

4010AST 1/2” KO

4110ST

5010AST

LISTED SNAP2IT ® CONNECTORS FOR

NEW MC-PCS CABLE ...lighting & low voltage circuits in the same cable

1/2" KO

Easy to Snap into Box!

505010AST 3/4" KO

Fully assembled, SNAP2IT® fittings handle the widest variety of MC cable AND THE NEW MC-PCS cables.

Compared to fittings with a locknut and screw, you can’t beat these snap in connectors for time-savings!

9

• Fits widest range and variety of MC cable 14/2 to 3/3 AC, MC, HCF, MC continuous corrugated aluminum cable and MCI-A cables (steel and aluminum)...including the new MC-PCS cable that combines power and low voltage in the same MC cable ANY Snap2It Connectors LISTED for MC cable are also LISTED for MC-PCS cable! These products offer the greatest time-savings.

• Fast, secure snap-on installation • Easy to remove, reusable connector From cable Loosen screw on top. Remove connector from cable.

From box Slip screwdriver under notch in Snap-Tite® ring. Twist.

Remove connector.

CATALOG NUMBER

Snap2It® connectors

DESCRIPTION

CABLE OUTSIDE DIA (OD)

4010AST

Snap in, 1/2" KO w insulated throat

.405 to .610

5010AST

Snap in, 1/2" KO w insulated throat

.580 to .780

505010AST

Duplex Snap in, 3/4" KO w insulated throat

(2) .590 to .820

4110ST

Snap in, 1/2" KO

.525 to .705

414110ST

Duplex Snap in, 1/2" KO

(2) .525 to .640

4141107ST

Duplex Snap in, 3/4" KO

(2) .525 to .690

4141107ST

Patented. Other patents pending.

www.aifittings.com • Scranton, PA 18517 • 800/233-4717

© 2015 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Product info aifittings.com/landing/snap2it-mc-cable-connectors

2312ECM_Arlington_866446-1223_9.indd 1 2401ECM_46-51_PNNL.indd 49

11/14/23 2:41 1/11/2024 4:10:50 PMPM

maintenance manuals. It might be helpful to include in-house IT personnel here.

Field-programmable components.

Facilities personnel should know how to adjust settings, return to original and default settings, and — critically — what the desired settings are (and why). The sequence of operations (SOO) will typically reveal much about the system and provide continuing reference to original settings.

System interfaces. How well facility users interact with the control system can determine the level of satisfaction or complaint. Facility personnel, the “first responders” to problems, should be able to guide users in the operation of keypads and device override signals.

Wireless connectivity. Troubleshooting connections in a wireless control system is typically more challenging than diagnosing a wired system. Be sure the trainer has plenty of background for this topic.

FROM EVERYDAY…

When occupancy sensors don’t operate as anticipated, disabling the device or extending its time-out period “solves” the problem — but it does so by wasting energy and money. Another common sensor issue involves incorrect installation that locates sensors behind doors or where they “see” only an occupant’s back and cannot detect smaller occupant movements of the hands or arms.

Training facility personnel about occupancy sensors — providing an understanding of sensor capabilities and limitations — would serve as a foundation during installation, and sensitivity could be studied and adjusted from the first day. Training can then equip the team to resolve common user complaints without disabling the cost-saving equipment. At the very least, a simple checklist of options from easy to more complicated is a helpful tool.

TO SPECIAL SPACES…

Scene controls commonly found in conference rooms are another common area of complaint. Without clear instructions from the controls specifier (see EC&M’s September article on the sequence of operations), a field technician may simply apply default settings that rarely correspond to the appropriate light levels for the different activities in a conference or multi-purpose space. Moreover, even 50

Photo 4. A maintenance professional accesses a phone app to change settings in the system.

correctly defined scene controls need to be changed over time.

The keypads for many control systems can be programmed without advanced technical knowledge. However, facilities personnel need to be trained in how to change the settings on the specific system that has been installed (Photo 4).

TO TRULY COMPLEX…

Problems arising in a complex control system vary and may interact with one another. Lights don’t turn on or off when they should; color is inconsistent; lights flicker; wireless connections fail to respond. While the symptoms may be clear, the diagnosis often is not. What is the root problem? Are there multiple problems? Do they interact? Where in the system are the problems located?

Some system problems, such as those related to color changing, can exceed the capabilities of even a well-trained facilities staff. You have to recognize your limitations and, when needed, call on external resources, typically from the manufacturer or the system integrator.

RESOURCES

An accurate, detailed, and comprehensive log of problems — compiled by the software or kept by hand — may be your most important maintenance resource. The log not only records problems, diagnoses, and solutions, but it also provides the data to support upgrades and preventive maintenance. Stressing the importance of the log

and training new facility personnel to use it builds consistency and reliability in the information it contains.

In addition to the comprehensive operations and maintenance (O&M) manual and standard electrical and lighting drawings, the facilities staff needs the documents that describe the system, such as the SOO, which details the control settings and identifies connections between lighting and other building systems. If unfamiliar with the SOO, facilities staff need to be trained in how to read the information within it.

THE PAYOFF

A lighting control system is an expensive investment. Properly designed, installed, and set up, controls save energy and money, create beneficial lighting conditions for occupants, and adjust to changes in conditions and use.

But these benefits depend on maintaining the system in good working order throughout its life — and maintenance depends on trained facilities staff. As the system’s installing contractor or facility manager, follow these best practices to make it happen.

Ruth Taylor serves as a project manager on the Advanced Lighting Team at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory where she contributes to projects focused on the application and development of solid-state lighting. For 10 years, she led Next Generation Lighting Systems. You can reach her at Ruth.taylor@pnnl.gov.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_46-51_PNNL.indd 50

1/11/2024 4:10:51 PM

ARLINGTON LOW VOLTAGE • COMMERCIAL GRADE, HEAVY-DUTY ZINC

MOUNTING BRACKETS FOR CLASS 2 LOW VOLTAGE WIRING

NEW!

Arlington’s mounting brackets are the best way to install Class 2 wiring. They seat wall plates flush with the mounting surface and install fast!

COMMERCIAL GRADE EXTRA HEAVY DUTY

LV1M L E Extra heavy-duty h ZINC Z for Existing fo Walls W

Sturdy Non-bendable zinc

© 2023 Arlington Industries, Inc.

Our new single gang, zinc mounting bracket, LV1M, for existing construction, offers extra rigidity so it won’t bend as easily as plastic.

Plus, it has threaded holes for easy, fast device installation – and LABOR SAVINGS.

Save Time!

Threaded holes for easy device installation Also available, a variety of single-, two-, three- and four-gang NON-METALLIC low voltage brackets, and others for specialty applications.

118

Patent pending

800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com

Product Info aifittings.com/landing/lvm1

2312ECM_Arlington_866401-1223_118.indd 1

11/14/23 11:26 AM

LOW COST • ZINC

MC CABLE FITTINGS 3-1/2"

NEW !

SIZE

THAT FIT SEVERAL CABLE SIZES Save time and money! Arlington’s low cost MC cable fittings, for dry locations only, are super-convenient and cost-effective. End stop bushings vary the size of the opening so ONE trade size fits several cable sizes!

© 2008 REV0221 Arlington

Changing end stop bushings is fast and easy. No need to remove the strap.

Insert the bushing that works the best with the cables you’re installing.

Reduce inventory – Costs much less than steel and malleable iron fittings Built-in end stop

8418 for 1000 Mcm wire and TECK90 Catalog Number

Trade Size

Cable O.D. Min Max

Wire Bundle O.D. Min Max

Conductor size # of Conductors* (AWG/KCMIL)

8412

1"

.780

1.120

.660

1.000

6/3, 6/4, 4-3, 4-4, 2-3, 2-4, 1-3

8413

1-1/4"

1.000

1.460

.870

1.370

2-3, 2-4, 1-3, 1-4, 1/0-3, 1/0-4, 2/0-3, 2/0-4, 3/0-3

8414

1-1/2"

1.360

1.770

1.250

1.590

2/0-4, 3/0-3, 3/0-4, 4/0-3, 4/0-4, 250-3, 250-4

8415

2"

1.700

2.200

1.550

2.050

250-4, 300-4, 350-3, 350-4, 500-3

8416

2-1/2"

2.100

2.700

1.950

2.400

500-3, 500-4, 600-3, 600-4, 750-3

8417 8418

3" 3-1/2"

2.500 3.300

3.300 3.600

2.350 3.031

3.000 3.500

600-4, 750-3, 750-4 750-3, 750-4, 1000-4

NEW

* Examples of 3- and 4-conductor cables accommodated.

Patented

3-1/2" 8418

14

800/233-4717 www.aifittings.com

Product info aifittings.com/landing/8412

2312ECM_Arlington_866402-1223_14.indd 1 2401ECM_46-51_PNNL.indd 51

11/14/23 11:34 AM 1/11/2024 4:10:52 PM

NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Focus on Wiring Devices Wiring Devices The Decora Edge line of wiring devices enables users to simply push stripped 14-gauge or 12-gauge electrical building wire into a termination port and close a lever that clicks into place, terminating the connection. Decora Edge features a unique patent-pending color-coded lever termination where the stripped end of a wire is inserted into the device, and a simple integral lever clamps the wire into place without the use of screws. This design has a snap feature with an audible click, so installers can be confident with every termination.

Leviton

Flip-Lid Floor Boxes The flip-lid floor box assemblies let customers adjust box depth on the job. Each model features hinged outlet covers to help prevent children from inserting fingers or objects. Available in 1-gang (0-2 in. depth) and 2-gang models (0-1 in.), this product is also available in brushed brass or stainless steel finishes and with 20A tamper-resistant outlets or low-voltage jacks. Finally, the product is available as complete floor box assemblies with box, cover, and device(s). Models with 20A receptacles only are UL listed.

Orbit Industries

GFCI Receptacles The Arrow Hart slim GFCI receptacles have been redesigned by the company, allowing for quick, easy installation and simple, intuitive use for the end-user. The devices are offered in a variety of models — standard, tamper resistant (TR), tamper and weather resistant (TWR), and controlled — and in numerous colors. Other features include a 1.03-in. depth in the box that provides more room for quick and easy wiring; an external backwire clamp; wider test and reset buttons; and an intuitive large reset indicator light that allows the user to easily identify a trip incident and quickly reset the device. In case of a unit failure, an end-of-life indicator light flashes red for easy identification of a device failure. Finally, a tamper-resistant shutter system allows for easy plug insertion and is black to disappear.

Eaton

Wiring Devices Line The company has announced the expansion of its PlugTail product line, which now includes two new line extensions — the PlugTail single receptacle and PlugTail with XHHW-2 wire. The PlugTail with XHHW-2 (left) is designed for isolated power areas. It is equipped with orange connector heads for simplified identification of isolated ground circuits. The single receptacle (right) is tailored for high-powered appliances, offering both NEC-compliant tamper-resistant and standard designs to accommodate future changeouts. According to the company, each factory-terminated PlugTail device offers consistent and easy installation, ensuring future-proofing.

Legrand 52

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_52-53_Product_Showcase.indd 52

1/11/2024 4:13:28 PM

2401EC

2401ECM_House_MikeHolt.indd 1 2401ECM_52-53_Product_Showcase.indd 53

12/27/23 2:37 1/11/2024 4:13:29 PMPM

PRODUCT NEWS

Electrician’s Kit

TKO hole cutters offer an efficient and clean cutter replacement for traditional knockouts by making smooth holes efficiently. Specifically designed to cut sheet metal, the cutters will cut stainless steel with fine grained, carbide tips. The design includes the SmoothStart replaceable pilot drill, which guides the cutter to the surface, avoiding cutter damage and providing smoother holes. The eight-piece kit includes 7/8-in., 11/8-in., 13/8-in., 13/4-in., 2-in., 21/2-in, pilot bit, and carrying case.

Additional features include an integrated arbor that provides solid rotation, precision-ground carbide teeth for fast cutting of clean, burr-free holes, and a built-in over drill flange that prevents penetration beyond the sheet metal.

IDEAL

Protective Gloves Magnetizer & Demagnetizer Tool

By utilizing powerful rare-earth magnets, the magnetizer is ideal for instantly magnetizing or demagnetizing screwdrivers, tweezers, tool bits, nut drivers, or other metal tools. It converts any metal tool into a magnetic retriever, which is great for picking up screws, nuts, and other small metal objects. Wide openings on the magnetizer allow a variety of tools and objects to be magnetized, and the product is designed to be compact and rugged.

Jonard Tools

The company’s SmartCut (BKCR4420) gloves offer a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) knit shell to provide ANSI cut level A4 protection without bulk. In addition, SmartCut features grip, moisture protection, and a high degree of dexterity.

To achieve the protection combination, SmartCut has a water-based polyurethane (WBPU) coating as a palm and finger base coat, which helps reduce penetration of liquids (including light oil). It secures grip with a foam nitrile topcoat, ideal for working with oils, petrochemicals, fuels, and most acids. Finally, a sandy grip finish further enhances abrasion resistance and cut protection. SmartCut provides medium-tohigh cut resistance with layered protection that is breathable and flexible.

Brass Knuckle

Disconnect Switches

Thermal Imaging Camera

According to the company, the FLIR E76 offers complete coverage of near and distant targets through a range of lens options. A step up from the FLIR E54, the E76 includes laser-assisted autofocus and three area measurement boxes. The 320 × 240 thermal resolution produces crisp, vibrant imagery that can be enhanced with patented FLIR MSX technology for added detail and perspective. The onboard FLIR Inspection Route runs pre-planned routes to help users stay organized when surveying large or multiple locations. FLIR Ignite technology provides automatic uploading of E76 images directly from the camera to the cloud for easy, secure storage and sharing.

Teledyne FLIR 54

The Class J fuse disconnect switch is a compact device that combines a switch and multiple fuses into a single product.

According to the company, this product offers a simpler way to manually open and close a circuit while safeguarding against overcurrent and short circuits. When the switch detects an overload or short circuit, the fuse blows automatically to open or break the circuit both upstream and downstream and shuts off the equipment.

The 600V switch is available in 30A, 60A, 100A, and 200A and protects many applications in various industries. Other features include a small footprint to save space and provide design flexibility, a no-tools-required frontal direct handle for easy/quick installation, safe-to-touch transparent fuse covers that cannot be opened in the “ON” position for extra protection, and horizontal, vertical, or 45° switch mounting options for installation adaptability.

Littelfuse

SKU Panelboard

The ReliaGear Merchandised neXT SuperBox panelboard is a fully assembled, single SKU panelboard that includes everything needed for power panelboard selection.

Features include an IP 20 bus stack that provides end-users maximum safety without the hazard of live parts, neXT Level protection utilizing plug in Tmax XT breaker technology (including flexibility in design), the ability to add more breakers to larger SuperBox sizes for future expansion capabilities, and the ability to perform easy and fast top/bottom feed changes in the field. The bus stack is rated for 600A, 800A, and 1,200A with main lug or main breaker options.

ABB

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_54-55_Products.indd 54

1/11/2024 4:14:29 PM

2401EC

WHERE FACILITY CHALLENGES FIND SOLUTIONS CENTRAL VALLEY

March 20-21, 2024 Modesto, CA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

April 17-18, 2024 Anaheim, CA

NORTHWEST

May 8-9, 2024 Portland, OR

facilitiesexpo. com

OWNED & PRODUCED BY:

2401ECM_House_FacilitiesExpo.indd 1 2401ECM_54-55_Products.indd 55

12/7/23 2:47 1/11/2024 4:14:30 PMPM

CODE BASICS

NEC Requirements for GFCIs and AFCIs

Do you know the specific locations where GFCI and AFCI protection are required?

By Mike Holt, NEC Consultant

A

ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protects people from shock, while an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protects people from fires that could result from electrical arcing of wiring inside walls.

Following the NEC rules will optimize protection, while noncompliance could prove fatal to occupants.

GFCI PROTECTION FOR DWELLINGS

GFCI protection must be provided as required in Sec. 210.8(A) through (F).

GFCI protective devices must be in a readily accessible location.

You can provide the GFCI protection using either a GFCI circuit breaker or a GFCI receptacle. To apply Sec. 210.8(A)(8) or (10), Sec. 210.8(B)(7), (13), and (15), the distance you measure from the sink or bathtub/shower is the shortest path the power-supply cord connected to the receptacle will follow without piercing a floor, wall, ceiling, or fixed barrier.

With the 2023 revision, the reference to windows and doors was removed to ensure GFCI protection for receptacles within the measured distance as required in Sec. 210.8 even if the measurement line passes through a window or door.

A GFCI circuit breaker provides ground-fault protection starting at the breaker, so the entire circuit has groundfault protection. A GFCI receptacle provides ground-fault protection for whatever is plugged into it; it has loadside terminals that provide downstream protection for any other receptacle(s) or device(s) on the circuit.

56

Fig. 1. Receptacles installed in dwelling unit locations must be GFCI protected (and the GFCI device must be in a readily accessible location).

Receptacles installed in the following dwelling unit locations must be GFCI protected — and the GFCI device must be in a readily accessible location (Sec. 210.24(A), as shown in Fig. 1).

(1) Bathrooms. (2) Garages and accessory buildings. (3) Outdoors. (4) Crawl spaces (at or below grade). (5) Basements. (6) Kitchens. Traditionally, this requirement applied only to kitchen countertop receptacles, but now any cord- and plug-connected appliance in the kitchen, such as the range receptacle, refrigerator receptacle, disposal receptacle, and microwave receptacle, now require GFCI protection. (7) Food or beverage preparation

or cooking areas. (8) Sinks (receptacles within 6 ft of the top inside edge of the bowl of a dwelling unit sink). (9) Boathouses. The Code does not require installing a receptacle in a boathouse, but any that are in a boathouse must be GFCI protected. (10) Bathtubs or shower stalls (receptacles within 6 ft of the outside edge of a bathtub or shower stall not installed within a bathroom).

(11) Laundry areas. (12) Damp and Wet Locations Indoors.

Exception No. 1: GFCI protection is not required for a receptacle dedicated to fixed electric snow-melting equipment if the receptacle is not readily accessible and ground-fault protection of equipment

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_56-59_Code_Basics.indd 56

1/11/2024 4:15:16 PM

(GFPE) is provided as required by Sec. 426.28 and Sec. 427.22.

Exception No. 2: GFCI protection is not required for a receptacle supplying only a permanently installed premises security system.

Exception No. 4: GFCI protection is not required for receptacles in dwelling unit bathroom exhaust fans unless specified by the fan instructions.

The receptacle for exhaust fans is internal to the exhaust fan. They are not accessible as a convenience cordand-plug receptacle; therefore GFCI protection is not required. Per “UL Guide Information GPWX,” exhaust fans installed in the area directly above the footprint (width and depth of the equipment) of the bathtub or shower must be GFCI protected.

GFCI PROTECTION FOR OTHER THAN DWELLINGS

GFCI protection is required for 125V through 250V receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits 50A (or less) or 3-phase branch circuits 100A (or less) installed in the following locations [Sec. 210.8(B)]: (1) Bathrooms. (2) Kitchens. (3) Food or beverage preparation or cooking areas. (4) Buffet serving areas (if they have permanent provisions for food serving, beverage serving, or cooking).

This requires GFCI protection for receptacles in the break area of a commercial occupancy. (5) Rooftops. (6) Outdoors.

(7) Sinks (for cord-and-plug-connected fixed or stationary appliances within 6 ft from the top inside edge of the bowl of a sink). Note that a faulted appliance in proximity to sinks presents a shock hazard whether the receptacle is within 6 feet or not. (8) Indoor damp or wet locations. (9) Locker rooms. (10) Garages, accessory buildings, and similar areas.

(11) Crawl spaces (at or below grade).

(12) Unfinished areas of basements.

(13) Aquatic tanks or bowls (receptacles within 6 ft from the top inside edge or rim, and receptacles within 6 ft from the conductive support framing of the container for aquariums, bait wells, and similar open aquatic containers such as tanks or bowls). (14) Laundry areas.

(15) Bathtubs and shower stalls (receptacles within 6 ft of the outside edge of a

Fig. 2. GFCI protection is not required for listed HVAC equipment, such as motor compressors or heat pumps.

bathtub or shower stall not installed in a bathroom).

Exception No. 2: Rooftop GFCI receptacles are required to be readily accessible only from the rooftop itself.

GFCI protection is also required for: • 120V lighting outlets in crawl spaces [Sec. 210.8(C)]. A lighting outlet is not required for a dwelling unit crawl space unless the space is used for storage or has equipment requiring servicing [Sec. 210.70(C)].

• Appliances rated 150V or less to ground, rated 60A or less, single- or three-phase, either cord-and-plug or hardwired connected. A dozen of these are listed in [Sec. 210.8(D)]. They include vending machines, sump pumps, and electric ranges. Some appliances listed in 210.8(D) may be hardwired instead of cord- and plug-connected, but the GFCI protection requirements of Sec. 210.8(A) and (B) apply only to receptacles. So why are these also required to be GFCI-protected? Because the shock hazards exist whether appliances are hardwired or cord-and-plug connected. Provide GFCI protection for the appliance branch circuit or outlet, either way.

• Equipment requiring servicing [Sec. 210.8(E)]. This includes the 125V,

15A, or 20A service receptacle outlet installed within 25 ft of the air-conditioning equipment as required in Sec. 210.63(A) or indoor service equipment as required in Sec. 210.63(B).

• All outdoor outlets rated 50A or less located outside a dwelling and outside garages, accessory buildings, or boathouses of dwelling spaces. If equipment connected to any of the above outdoor outlets is replaced, the circuit to the outlet must be GFCI-protected.

Exception No. 2: GFCI protection is not required for listed HVAC equipment, such as motor compressors or heat pumps (Fig. 2).

AFCIs

An AFCI is intended to de-energize the circuit when it detects the current waveform characteristics unique to an arcing fault [Art. 100].

AFCI protection is required per Sec. 210.12(B) through (C) and the AFCI device must be in a readily accessible location. AFCI protection is not required for outlets in bathroom areas, garages, or outside. But it is required for 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits in the following dwelling unit locations [Sec. 210.12(B)]: www.ecmweb.com • January 2024

2401ECM_56-59_Code_Basics.indd 57

57

1/11/2024 4:15:19 PM

CODE BASICS

2

P

N T

w sa p

In El es 17 el

As El In

CodeWatch This e-newsletter, published twice-monthly, is dedicated to coverage of the National Electrical Code. The content items are developed by three well-known Code experts.

CodeWatch promises to: • Address changes in the Code • Explain how to properly apply the Code • Test your knowledge of the Code • Provide information on upcoming Code-related seminars and shows

Subscribe Today See all of our EC&M e-newsletters at www.ecmweb.com

58 ECM-ads.indd 1

E Fig. 3. AFCI protection is required for 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits in the dormitory unit locations listed above.

(1) Kitchens (2) Family rooms (3) Dining rooms (4) Living rooms (5) Parlors (6) Libraries (7) Dens (8) Bedrooms (9) Sunrooms (10) Recreation rooms (11) Closets (12) Hallways (13) Laundry areas (14) Similar areas AFCI protection is required for 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits in the following dormitory unit locations [Sec. 210.12(C)] (Fig. 3): (1) Bedrooms (2) Living rooms (3) Hallways (4) Closets (5) Bathrooms (6) Similar rooms AFCI protection is required for 15A and 20A, 120V branch circuits in the following “other occupancy” locations Sec. 210.12(D)]: (1) Guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and motels. (2) Nursing homes and limited care facilities, areas used exclusively as patient sleeping rooms.

(3) Areas designed for use exclusively as sleeping quarters in fire stations, police stations, ambulance stations, rescue stations, ranger stations, and similar locations.

If 15A or 20A, 120V branch-circuit wiring is extended, modified, or replaced in any of the areas specified in Sec. 210.12(B), (C), or (D), the wiring must be AFCI protected by one of the following [Sec. 210.12(E)]:

(1) AFCI circuit breaker. (2) AFCI receptacle installed at the first receptacle outlet of the existing branch circuit.

Exception: AFCI protection is not required for extension wiring that is less than 6 ft long if no outlets or devices, other than splicing devices, are added.

This measurement does not include the conductors inside an enclosure, cabinet, or junction box.

ENSURING COMPLIANCE

When reviewing installation plans, double-check those plans against the “why” behind the Code requirements.

Ask yourself if a person is likely to interact with the branch circuit by plugging things in. If so, the Code probably requires GFCI protection.

With an AFCI, the original question was whether people might not detect arcing in the branch circuit due to being asleep. The concept has expanded somewhat, but unawareness of the hazard is still the main driver.

St Up Ele es co sa

Co Up Dr co

St Up Ele ar dis

Lo Up Ke gr

These materials are provided by Mike Holt Enterprises in Leesburg, Fla. To view Code training materials offered by this company, visit www.mikeholt. com/code.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com 3/30/18 7:04 PM

2401ECM_56-59_Code_Basics.indd 58

1/11/2024 4:15:20 PM

2401EC

2024 ELECTRICAL SALES FORECASTS Powered by Electrical Marketing NEED RELIABLE LOCAL MARKET DATA ON WHERE THE ELECTRICAL MARKET IS HEADED? www.electricalmarketing.com is loaded with electrical market sales forecasts and related industry data for the 2024 market planning season.

In addition to keeping electrical executives current on the latest electrical market news, Electrical Marketing newsletter now offers a unique package of Electrical Sales Potential estimates at the national, state and local area, as well as state and national sales estimates for 17 key electrical products. This package of data and industry news is not available anywhere else in the electrical market. You can get it today as part of a special $99 annual subscription to Electrical Marketing.

As part of your $99 annual subscription, you get both online access to this data and 24 issues of Electrical Marketing newsletter, available either in print or online in a convenient downloadable PDF format.

Included in Electrical Marketing’s new package of industry data:

ELECTRICAL SALES POTENTIAL State & Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) data Updated quarterly Electrical Marketing’s estimates for total electrical sales, as well as estimates for the electrical contractor and industrial market – the two core electrical market that account for more than 75% of all electrical sales through full-line distributors.

County-Level Sales Data Updated twice-a-year Drill down to the core electrical sales potential in the electrical contractor and industrial markets in more than 900 counties.

State-Level Electrical Product Sales Potential in 17 product groups Updated annually Electrical Marketing’s estimates for state-level electrical sales potential are based on product mix data from more than 100 Top 200 electrical distributors.

Local Electrical Market Indicators Updated quarterly Keep tabs on building permits, gross metropolitan product, population growth and employment trends in core market segments.

OTHER MARKET DATA Local Construction Projects Updated quarterly A database of the largest construction projects in local markets across the U.S., with links to additional project information in news reports.

Electrical Market Indicators Regular posts on the key electrical market indicators shaping this industry.

ELECTRICAL PRICE INDEX Having a tough time keeping up with all of the price increases for electrical products The Electrical Price Index offers a monthly update on pricing trends for more than 20 key electrical product groups.

www.electricalmarketing.com/membership/signup/member

INTERESTED? To subscribe: 847-382-9187 I www.electricalmarketing.com/membership/signup/member For subscription questions, contact ElectricalMarketing@omeda.com.

For questions on Electrical Marketing’s new market data, contact Jim Lucy, Electrical Marketing’s Editor-in-Chief, at jlucy@endeavorb2b.com.

2401ECM_House_ElectricalMarketing.indd 1 2401ECM_56-59_Code_Basics.indd 59

1/4/24 9:58 1/11/2024 4:15:21 PMAM

CODE QUANDARIES

Stumped by the Code?

By Mike Holt, NEC Consultant All questions and answers are based on the 2023 NEC.

Q. What are the conditions liquid-tight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) can be used and installed?

A. Section 350.10 lists the conditions

where LFMC can used and installed.

Listed LFMC is permitted, either exposed or concealed, at any of the following locations: (1) If flexibility or protection from machine oils, liquids, vapors, or solids is required.

(2) In hazardous (classified) locations as permitted in Chapter 5.

(3) For direct burial if listed and marked for this purpose (see the Photo).

(4) Conductors or cables rated at a temperature higher than the listed temperature rating of LFMC may be installed in LFMC, provided the conductors or cables are not operated at a temperature higher than the listed temperature rating of the LFMC per Sec. 110.14(C).

Q. What are the requirements for securing and supporting LFMC?

A. As stated in Sec. 350.30, LFMC must

be securely fastened in place and supported in accordance with (A) and (B).

(A) Securely Fastened. LFMC must be securely fastened by a means approved by the authority having jurisdiction within 1 ft of termination and must be secured and supported at intervals not exceeding 41/2 ft.

Where cable ties are used for securing LFMC they must be listed and identified for securement and support.

Exception No. 1: LFMC is not required to be securely fastened or supported where fished between access points through concealed spaces and supporting is impractical.

Exception No. 2: If flexibility is necessary after installation, unsecured 60

lengths from the last point where the raceway is securely fastened are not permitted to exceed: (1) 3 ft for trade sizes 1/2 through 11/4 (2) 4 ft for trade sizes 11/2 through 2 (3) 5 ft for trade sizes 21/2 and larger

Using LFMC fittings to secure and support only applies to installations made using one of the four exceptions.

Exception No. 4: Lengths not exceeding 6 ft from the last point where the raceway is securely fastened can be unsecured within an accessible ceiling for a luminaire(s) or other equipment. Listed

fittings are considered a means of securement and support.

For these exceptions, listed LFMC fittings are permitted as a means of securement and support.

Author’s Comment: This last sentence following the four exceptions means that using LFMC fittings to secure and support only applies to installations made using one of the four exceptions. It should not be interpreted as permission to use these fittings to secure and support LFMC in all applications.

(B) Horizontal Runs. LFMC installed horizontally in bored or punched holes in wood or metal framing members, or notches in wooden members, is considered supported. Still, the raceway must be secured within 1 ft of termination.

These materials are provided by Mike Holt Enterprises in Leesburg, Fla. To view Code training materials offered by this company, visit www.mikeholt.com/code.

January 2024 • www.ecmweb.com

2401ECM_60_Code_Quandaries.indd 60

1/11/2024 4:16:18 PM

CODE VIOLATIONS

Illustrated Catastrophes

By Russ LeBlanc, NEC Consultant All references are based on the 2023 edition of the NEC.

A PERMANENT TEMPORARY INSTALLATION Slapping a box on the end of rigid PVC conduit is no way to properly support and secure a box. This method is not one of the methods specified in Sec. 314.23(A) through (H) and is prohibited by Sec. 352.12(B). Section 314.23(E) and (F) both permit raceway-supported enclosures. However, in both cases, the enclosure must have threaded entries or hubs, and conduits must be threaded into the enclosures. Using PVC glue to hold the box in place simply will not “make the grade.” If I was the AHJ inspecting this installation, I would fail it without hesitation. On a positive note, at least the installer used a weatherproof while in use cover, (aka a “bubble cover”) as required by Sec. 406.9(B)(1). However, I’m not so sure it is an “extra-duty” type of cover as required by that same Section though. One other problem to note is the string of holiday twinkle lights that remain plugged in year-round.

These lights are designed for temporary use only and are limited to 90 days as specified in Sec. 590.3(B). The product standard for seasonal decorative-lighting products, ANSI/UL 588, also limits their use to 90 days per year.

Leaving them up all year violates Sec. 110.3(B).

DANGER UNDERFOOT Walking through the mulch bed of this landscaped area near a hotel presented me with an unexpected find.

I almost stepped on this partially buried PVC junction box. With the cover missing, the circuit wires and wire connectors are now left exposed. The open box is full of mulch and sand and can easily fill with water when it rains. The exposed wire connector is split open with its metal spring visible. This situation elevates the risk of shock to any animals or people walking through this area as I did. That box needs to have all the debris cleaned out. The conductors and connectors should then be inspected for damage and replaced as needed.

A cover should be installed on the box as required by Sec. 314.25 and Sec. 314.28(C). One side of the box is cracked, so the box may need to be completely replaced too. Until these repairs are made, this circuit poses a real shock hazard when energized. An exception in Sec. 314.29(B) permits listed boxes to be installed underground where covered by gravel, light aggregate, or noncohesive soil if their location is described and accessible for excavation. www.ecmweb.com • January 2024

2401ECM_61_Illustrated_Catastrophes.indd 61

61

1/11/2024 4:17:01 PM

MARKETPLACE Podcasts

OPTIMIZE

DATA CENTERS WITH PREMIUM ELBOWS

To advertise in EC&M Classified and Marketplace, contact

STEVE SUAREZ

No burn-through eliminates elbow repairs

Media Account Executive

Lower material and installation costs Fault resistance makes repairing cables easy

O: 941-259-0867 M: 816-588-7372

DOWNLOAD COMPARISON

ssuarez@endeavorb2b.com

DO MORE . ®

The Industry’s Premier Training for Estimators and Project Managers

2401ECM_ChampionFiberglass_MKPL.indd 1

1/4/24 11:06 AM

Services Provided: Online or Onsite ACCUBID Training Onsite Estimator Training Regional Estimator Workshops Estimator Coaching Database Management

Webinars Departmental Organization Computerization in Estimating Switching Estimating Software Estimator Pre-Hire Screening

What Others Are Saying!

“Don is a subject matter expert with the ability to teach with passion. The industry needs this man.”

— Dennis Harter Sr. – V.P. of Operations, Kaiser Electric — Fenton, MO “Don, you exceeded our expectations. We knew we had a need for training. The good news is that you took that head on and provided great insight.”

— Joel Kahn — COO, Converse Electric, Columbus, OH

Contact: Don Kiper, President, Estimating 101 • 905-941-1611 or don@electricalestimating101.com www.electricalestimating101.com 2107ECM_Estimating101.indd 1 2401ECM_62_marketplace.indd 62

7/8/21 10:25 AM 1/11/2024 4:17:48 PM

ADVERTISER INDEX Advertiser

SALES STAFF

Page #

Phone #

Web Address

Arlington Industries, Inc.

15

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

larger), call the Advertising Sales

Arlington Industries, Inc.

17

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Representative for your area.

Arlington Industries, Inc.

19

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

21

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

23

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

25

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

29

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

31

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

33

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Western U.S. & Western Canada

Arlington Industries, Inc.

35

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Ellyn Fishman

Arlington Industries, Inc.

37

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

39

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

41

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

43

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Northeast U.S. & Eastern Canada

Arlington Industries, Inc.

45

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

David Sevin

Arlington Industries, Inc.

47

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Account Manager

Arlington Industries, Inc.

49

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

51

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Arlington Industries, Inc.

64

800-233-4717

www.aifittings.com

Atkore

IFC

—

www.atkore.com

AutomationDirect

1

800-633-0405

automationdirect.com/signal-devices

Briggs & Stratton Standby Power

7

—

briggsandstratton.com/ecm

Champion Fiberglass, Inc.

BC

—

www.championfiberglass.com

Electrical Marketing

59

847-382-9187

www.electricalmarketing.com

FacilitiesExpo 2024

55

—

www.facilitiesexpo.com

Phone: (913) 967-7543

LightSpec West

IBC

—

www.lightspecwest.com

E-mail: jthompson@endeavorb2b.com

Mike Holt Enterprises

53

888-632-2633

www.mikeholt.com

Orbit Industries, Inc.

32

213-451-6091

www.orbitelectric.com

Phoenix Contact

9

—

phoenixcontact.com/us-TOOLfox

Progressive Insurance

11

—

ProgressiveCommercial.com

S-P Products, Inc.

5

800-233-8595

www.SPProducts.com

Overland Park, KS 66213

Underground Devices, Inc.

3

847-205-9000

www.udevices.com

Phone: (816) 588-7372

(Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this index. However, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions.)

To place a display ad (1/6 page or

Vice President Mike Hellmann Andover, MA Phone: (978) 289-0098 E-mail: mhellmann@endeavorb2b.com

Key Account Manager (949) 239-6030 Email: efishman@endeavorb2b.com

24 Houghton Street Barrington, RI 02806 Phone: (401) 246-1903 E-mail: dsevin@endeavorb2b.com Midwest, Southeast,and Southwest Jay Thompson Account Manager 7450 W. 130th Street, Suite #210 Overland Park, KS 66213

Marketplace/Inside Sales Steve Suarez Media Account Exec 7450 W. 130th Street, Suite #210

E-mail: ssuarez@endeavorb2b.com

www.ecmweb.com • January 2024

2401ECM_63_Ad_Index.indd 63

63

1/11/2024 4:18:32 PM

CODE VIOLATIONS

By Russ LeBlanc, NEC Consultant

H

ow well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn’t identify? Here’s your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else’s work from the safety of your living room or office. Can you identify the specific Code violation(s) in this photo? Note: Submitted comments must include specific references from the 2023 NEC. Hint: Mingled and missing circuit breakers

‘TELL THEM WHAT THEY’VE WON...’

Using the 2023 NEC, correctly identify the Code violation(s) in this month’s photo — in 200 words or less — and you could win an Arlington Industries 18-in.

Slider Bar and plastic box for mounting between studs with non-standard spacing. E-mail your response, including your name and mailing address, to russ@russleblanc. net, and Russ will select three winners (excluding manufacturers and prior winners) at random from the correct submissions. Note that submissions without an address will not be eligible to win.

NOVEMBER WINNER This month’s winner was Joseph Becker, an EC&M reader and contest participant from Loudon, N.H. He was able to correctly cite some the Code violations in this photo.

Storing cardboard boxes against the switchboard does not comply with Sec. 408.17. Switchboards and switchgear must be installed so as to minimize the probability of communicating a fire to adjacent combustible materials. Putting the flammable liquids storage cabinet against the side of the switchboard was not a good idea either. Notice the propane tank on the floor to the left of the cabinet? That’s another bad idea. Section 408.18(B) requires clearances around switchboards and switchgear to comply with Sec. 110.26. Section 110.26(B) prohibits the working space for this switchboard from being used for storage.

A closer look reveals a toilet tank sitting on the floor in front of this switchboard in violation of Sec. 110.26(B).

ENTER to WIN...

BETTER IDEAS

SL1B18 SINGLE GANG KIT

SLIDER BAR™ mounts plastic (or metal) boxes between studs with non-standard spacing 64 January 2024 •1 www.ecmweb.com 2106ECM_Arlington_StripAd.indd

2401ECM_64-C4_WWH.indd 64

6/9/21 9:41 AM

1/11/2024 4:19:11 PM

2312EC

THE WEST COAST’S PREMIER LIGHTING & DESIGN EXPERIENCE

APRIL 17- 18, 2024

ANAHEIM CONVENTION CENTER, ANAHEIM, CA

REGISTER FOR FREE * AT: WWW.LIGHTSPE CWE ST.COM

Presented by:

Owned by:

*Qualified Attendees (which do not include lighting suppliers/manufacturers or non-sponsoring agencies) can register for free through March 2, 2024

2312ECM_House_LightSpecWest24.indd 1 2401ECM_64-C4_WWH.indd 3

11/21/23 4:02 1/11/2024 4:19:12 PMPM

Champion Duct® Electrical Conduit Elbow

OPTIMIZE

DATA CENTERS WITH PREMIUM ELBOWS No burn-through eliminates elbow repairs

Fault resistance makes repairing cables easy

Lower material and installation costs

Durable and corrosion-resistant for project longevity

©2016 Champion Fiberglass, Inc.

DOWNLOAD GUIDE

BIM/REVIT

2401ECM_ChampionFiberglass.indd 1 2401ECM_64-C4_WWH.indd 4

1/4/24 11:04 1/11/2024 4:19:13 PMAM