sealed or plugged

[jimej42]

It's been a while since I've had to look for this one but didn't the NEC say that holes half inch or larger need to be plugged or sealed?
Thanks

 

[infinity]

The NEC makes no mention of size. It does say this:

110.12 Mechanical Execution of Work. Electrical equipment shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner.
(A) Unused Openings. Unused openings, other than those
intended for the operation of equipment, those intended for
mounting purposes, or those permitted as part of the design
for listed equipment, shall be closed to afford protection
substantially equivalent to the wall of the equipment.
Where metallic plugs or plates are used with nonmetallic
enclosures, they shall be recessed at least 6 mm ( 1/4 in.)
from the outer surface of the enclosure.

Welcome to the Forum.

 

[kwired]

Note in Rob's quote it doesn't mention a size of the hole. In some instances I still find myself plugging unused mounting holes even if not required. Keeps wasps and other things from invading some equipment if you do that.

 

[norcal]

Note in Rob's quote it doesn't mention a size of the hole. In some instances I still find myself plugging unused mounting holes even if not required. Keeps wasps and other things from invading some equipment if you do that.

Anyone who comes after you should be thankful there are no surprises in the future. Critters/creatures/insects don't belong in there.

 

[jaylectricity]

So do you need the actual ko plug or is it ok to tape over the hole with electrical tape, painter's tape or "good stuff", etc?

 

[ActionDave]

110.12 Mechanical Execution of Work. Electrical equipment shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner.
(A) Unused Openings. Unused openings, other than those
intended for the operation of equipment, those intended for
mounting purposes, or those permitted as part of the design
for listed equipment, shall be closed to afford protection
substantially equivalent to the wall of the equipment.
Where metallic plugs or plates are used with nonmetallic
enclosures, they shall be recessed at least 6 mm ( 1/4 in.)
from the outer surface of the enclosure.


I've used a couple of fender washers and a short 1/4 20 nut and bolt or 1900 blanks in a pinch.

 

[Tony S]

Anyone who comes after you should be thankful there are no surprises in the future. Critters/creatures/insects don't belong in there.

I don?t know who was more surprised when I opened a panel, me or the snake.

I?ve also had an 11KV switchboard fail in spectacular style due to mice.

For the little time it takes, stopping all holes is worthwhile.