The NEC is not a design manual. You dont not enforce "safety design" just electrical safety. I appreciate your concern for the contractors you inspect, but its not a code issue.
It's not safe for me to work on a 75' articulating man lift, even if I take all the precautions, so are you also saying since its unsafe I cannot install a device up that high?? I guess you don't want me up there looking for a wire that's been chewed by squirrels. Sure your jurisdiction, your rules, That doesn't make you right. I'm too lazy but I'd like to see a FOrmal interpetation.
As I stated this is MY opinion. The general public seems to think
Code Enforcement includes everything from the neighbors Magnolia leaves falling in their yard to the color of paint on your house.
The Admin section of the North Carolina Electrical Code,2008 edition. ( 10.3 Purpose) States in part that all regulations contained in this code have a reasonable and substantial connection with the public health,"SAFETY",morals,or general welfare,and their provisions shall be construed "Liberally" to those ends.
You can say that this is my Liberal interpretation of Safety regards J-boxes hidden within attic insulation.
Regards your man lift scenario: by necessity there are some locations that are dangerous and require electical devices and or equipment to be placed there. This can NOT be changed and is generally accepted as a part of life. We change the things we can and live with those we can not. By any and all means go get that squirrel damage fixed.