attach plastic box with metal screw through side ?

[Steviechia2]

I used to think that myself, but read it carefully, exactly what the wording is intended to mean is not that clear at all. It can be interpreted to mean no nails or screws in the sides of the box at all except for the back 1/4 inch of the box sides. This makes some sense for narrow device boxes where device terminals may be real close to contacting the mounting screws. Makes no sense at all for something like a 24x24 pull box, but as worded it applies there also.

So the answer to your question if you are confused with all the posts:blink: is no. You cannot use a a typical plastic box mounted with screws inside of the box (see post 17) unless it's a listed box
I think you will find that most electrician's do as you proposing which IMO is not a real safety issue.

 

[iwire]

Of curse not no more than should a metal staple but the strap is outside the box where it won't get energized

I don't see the screw being energized in the box either, you would still need an insulation failure.

 

[kwired]

So the answer to your question if you are confused with all the posts:blink: is no. You cannot use a a typical plastic box mounted with screws inside of the box (see post 17) unless it's a listed box
I think you will find that most electrician's do as you proposing which IMO is not a real safety issue.

I know what the code says, my debate is why the current rule is necessary, since you feel there is no real safety issue you probably question it also.

 

[Steviechia2]

I know what the code says, my debate is why the current rule is necessary, since you feel there is no real safety issue you probably question it also.

Sorry I thought I had posted to the OP :slaphead:

 

[RustyShackleford]

I think you will find that most electrician's do as you proposing which IMO is not a real safety issue.

Re-acquainting myself with NEC after some years, I find there's a lot of stuff that's not a real safety issue but a code violation nonetheless, most notably 404.2(C). But those suggested boxes (with angled screws built-in) seem like a very clean solution to my problem, so no biggie.

 

[kwired]

Re-acquainting myself with NEC after some years, I find there's a lot of stuff that's not a real safety issue but a code violation nonetheless,

That is because the NEC over the years has introduced a lot of things to protect ignorant installers and repair people. The thing is those same ignorant people don't need to be messing with electricity in the first place.

 

[iwire]

That is because the NEC over the years has introduced a lot of things to protect ignorant installers and repair people. The thing is those same ignorant people don't need to be messing with electricity in the first place.

I have to agree there.

My thought has always been it is my job via the NEC to deliver an electrical system that is safe for anyone to use as intended. As soon as they break out tools to work on, or change the system it is up to them to know what they are doing.

MWBC handle ties still irk me.