Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: completeaudio, Location: Logan, Utah
Asked on: Monday, April 18, 2011 at 10:22 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:19 am EDT
Question: 800.110 Makes reference to the installation of Raceways to be in accordance with Ch. 3, but makes no mention to the conductors inside.The issue is that we have some Cat6 plenum cables that need to run a couple of feet into a floor box (consider "wet location") and the local inspector is telling us that we need to use weatherproof cable in the conduit.From my understanding the article on references the "raceway" and not the cables and within.Does anyone have any input or experience with this?
NEC Interpretation
NEC 800.110 states that raceways for communications circuits shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 3. Chapter 3 does not specifically address the conductors within raceways. However, this does not mean that the conductors are not subject to the general wiring requirements of Chapter 3.
Wet Locations
NEC 300.7(A) requires that electrical equipment and materials in wet locations be approved for such use. Conduits and cables intended for use in wet locations are typically rated as "wet location listed" or "weatherproof."Plenum Cables
Plenum cables are designed for use in air-handling spaces and are rated for flame spread and smoke generation. Plenum cables are not inherently weatherproof.
Inspector's Interpretation
The inspector's interpretation appears to be that conductors in raceways in wet locations must be weatherproof. This interpretation is based on the general requirement for electrical equipment and materials in wet locations to be approved for such use.
Resolution
To resolve this issue, you have several options: Use weatherproof cable
Install a weatherproof cable that is rated for use in wet locations within the conduit.
Use a conduit seal
Install a conduit seal at the point where the conduit enters the floor box. This will prevent moisture from entering the conduit and reaching the conductors.*
Get a variance
You can apply for a variance from the inspector's interpretation. To do this, you will need to demonstrate that the proposed installation will be safe and in compliance with the intent of the NEC.
Recommendation
The most straightforward solution is to use weatherproof cable or a conduit seal. This will ensure that the installation complies with the inspector's interpretation and the NEC requirements for wet locations. Flag for review