NEC 314.27(C) (2) is confusing me.

[wyboy]

NEC 314.27(C) (2) is confusing me. How does an outlet box provide access to a structural framing for a ceiling fan? Is there a type of box I am not familiar with or is there something I am not seeing?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I think all that it is saying is, for instance, you had a ceiling with metal framing that could not easily support a fan bracket box at a later date then you would need a fan box installed.

This is the 2020 NEC

(C) Boxes at Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fan Outlets.


Outlet boxes or outlet box systems used as the sole support of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan shall be listed, shall be marked by their manufacturer as suitable for this purpose, and shall not support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans that weigh more than 32 kg (70 lb). For outlet boxes or outlet box systems designed to support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans that weigh more than 16 kg (35 lb), the required marking shall include the maximum weight to be supported.
Outlet boxes mounted in the ceilings of habitable rooms of dwelling occupancies in a location acceptable for the installation of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan shall comply with one of the following:

• (1)
  Listed for the sole support of ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans
• (2)
  An outlet box complying with the applicable requirements of 314.27 and providing access to structural framing capable of supporting of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan bracket or equivalent