What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Measure Twice. Cut Once.

July 11, 2024

Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: Measure twice. Cut once.

I think this Liquidtight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit (LFNC) needed to be a couple inches longer to properly accommodate the movement of the pole during high wind conditions. It may have been connected and continuous when originally installed, but I’m guessing the pole wobbled, wiggled, and swayed in the breeze causing the LFNC to pop out of the 90-degree connector installed at the pole. As it sits now this installation does not comply with Sec. 300.12 since the raceway is not continuous to the pole.

The disconnected LFNC is also no longer securely fastened in place as required by Sec. 300.11(A). In addition, the exposed conductors may not be sunlight resistant as required by Sec. 310.10(D) and eventually could become damaged from prolonged exposure to sunlight. LFNC installed in outdoor locations must be listed and marked as being suitable for this purpose as required by Sec. 356.10(3).

About the Author

Russ LeBlanc | Owner

Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.

Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.