HOSPITAL GRADE MC - HOMERUNS BACK TO PANEL

[Greenboy]

Article 517.13.A is saying we are required to run a listed raceway system or metallic cable armor, or sheath assembly that is rated to qualify as a equipment ground in accordance with 250.118. In addition to this, (article 517.13.B) requires a insulated grounding conductor ran integral to the run.

These are required in patient care areas.



Couple questions

With all that being said, it definitely indicates that we are to run a redundant ground in all patient care areas(well, excluding the exceptions). Does that mean, if we are running a Hospital grade MC(with redundant ground), do we need to run hospital grade MC back to the panel, if the home runs are not in patient care area? Or can we get away with regular MC?


Furthermore, if I read this right, it sounds like we can't run PVC, or Smurf in deck as home run conduits that serves patient care? area?

 

[augie47]

Note that 517.13 references the "branch circuit shall".. as the branch circuit starts at the overcurrent device the circuit from that point must qualify.
And, yes, you are correct, no non-metallic wiring methods can be employed in patient care branch circuits.

 

[Greenboy]

Note that 517.13 references the "branch circuit shall".. as the branch circuit starts at the overcurrent device the circuit from that point must qualify..

This refers to 517.13.A, which only applies to the sheath being the equipment ground. 517.13.B talks about the insulated ground attaching to devices in patient care area.

Are we able to run MC-ap, being that the sheath is listed as a equipment ground conductor.

 

[augie47]

Note the fine line difference. 517.13 states that branch circuit wiring will comply with (A) and (B) thus an approved metallic raceway AND an insulated equipment grounding conductor. The exception for lighting fixtures more than 7-1/2 ft above the floor removes the insylayed ground requirement but maintains the
metallic raceway.
You can use MC-AP with an insulated ground throughout the pc area, In the area where the fixtures meet the exception you can use other methods that are acceptable by 250.118 such as flex in lengths less than 6 ft on circuits 20 amps or less.