romex above drop ceiling

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wire monk

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Is it a code violation to run romex above a drop ceiling to 2x4 lay-in fixtures. It is a commercial building one story. Above the drop ceiling is wood joist. The romex is staples to the bottom of the joist and daisey chained from fixture to fixture.
 
Yes, in a commercial building, it's a violation.
334.12 Uses Not Permitted.
(A) Types NM, NMC, and NMS. Types NM, NMC, and NMS cables shall not be permitted as follows:
...............................
(2) Exposed in dropped or suspended ceilings in other than one- and two-family and multifamily dwellings
 
augie47 said:
Yes, in a commercial building, it's a violation.
334.12 Uses Not Permitted.
(A) Types NM, NMC, and NMS. Types NM, NMC, and NMS cables shall not be permitted as follows:
...............................
(2) Exposed in dropped or suspended ceilings in other than one- and two-family and multifamily dwellings
Click to expand...


Unless of course the OP is from NJ .....

4. Chapter 3 of the electrical subcode, entitled "Wiring Methods and Materials," is amended as follows:


iii. Section 334.12(A)(2) is deleted in its entirety.
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http://www.state.nj.us/dca/codes/code_assist_internet/barrier_free/pdf/sub_3_tech_amend_4_20_091.pdf
[see page 28]

:smile:
 
To expand on this: I wonder to what degree new rule apply, and don't apply, to an existing installation. I ran into that question last week, when I wired in a new cooking hood and fire suppression system in an existing fast mart of same construction.

Part of the old system had been supplied by NM, and I decided to ask the EI (a county outside of my usual stomping grounds) about it before starting. He basically said the entire job is to be considered as part of the installation, including home runs.

I was lucky, as there was a 3/4" EMT back to the panel that contained the two blower supply circuits, and I had to add a single circuit for a receptacle for a new appliance, so I pulled a couple of new conductors for the lights and contactors, and the appliance.


My point is: Where is the line separating existing and new? If the OP's cables in the ceiling can remain as existing (presuming compliant when installed), what about the drop from joist to first fixture? If the old KO plates fit the new fixtures, can the loops stay?
 
LarryFine said:
My point is: Where is the line separating existing and new? If the OP's cables in the ceiling can remain as existing (presuming compliant when installed), what about the drop from joist to first fixture? If the old KO plates fit the new fixtures, can the loops stay?
Click to expand...
IMO, if you don't modify it, it is existing.

If NM goes to a fixture, and I only replace the fixture: NM existing. If I move the NM, it is new.

I guess hitting NM with another cable might depend.
 
LarryFine said:
... existing installation ...
Click to expand...

What is he NEC definition of an "Existing Installation"?

Would a repair to an existing installation then require the electrician to repull the home-run, and all other branches from that home-run?

What thoughts, interpretations, etc, could be presented to an AHJ, during discussion?
Is this resolved only by saying it is up to the AHJ?

:smile:
 
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