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grounding snap on switches..

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aceofdiamond

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NEC 2002 requires grounding snap on switches in non-metallic boxes what about NEC 1999? what about 3/4-way swithces? most don't have ground screw. thanks in advance.
 
iwire

iwire

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Staff member
Location
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Re: grounding snap on switches..

The 99 code had very similar requirements for the grounding of faceplate's for switches.

1999 NEC
380-9(b) Grounding. Snap switches, including dimmer switches, shall be effectively grounded and shall provide a means to ground metal faceplates, whether or not a metal faceplate is installed. Snap switches shall be considered effectively grounded if either of the following conditions are met.

1. The switch is mounted with metal screws to a metal box or to a nonmetallic box with integral means for grounding devices.

2. An equipment grounding conductor or equipment bonding jumper is connected to an equipment grounding termination of the snap switch.
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There is an exception for replacements where no ground exists.

Snap switches include 3 and 4 ways, you must start buying switches with grounding means.

You could only use these ones without grounding means by way of the exception.
 
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aceofdiamond

Member
Re: grounding snap on switches..

provision for snap switch faceplates; the way I read 380-9; if using metal faceplate then your switches must be grounding type. but if using insulating/nonconductive material then no requirement for the grounding type. i am referencing NEC-99 370-25a;410-18a/b;410-56d. am i reading this correctly. :confused:
 
iwire

iwire

Moderator
Staff member
Location
Massachusetts
Re: grounding snap on switches..

1999 NEC
370-25. Covers and Canopies
In completed installations, each box shall have a cover, faceplate, or fixture canopy.

(a) Nonmetallic or Metal Covers and Plates. Nonmetallic or metal covers and plates shall be permitted. Where metal covers or plates are used, they shall comply with the grounding requirements of Section 250-110.
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I do not see anything in this or 250-110 that would allow not grounding a switch.

I do not see anything in the 410 articles you cited that would allow you not grounding switches.

Part of 1999 380-9(b)
shall provide a means to ground metal faceplates, whether or not a metal faceplate is installed.
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Ace you have to ground the switches as far as I can tell and is it that much of a hardship to do anyway? :confused:
 
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