NEC 400.12 - Receptacle cords through ceiling tiles

[Rock86]

Doing a building survey and came across these. Do they violate NEC 400.12(2)?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

IMO, it does violate the nec.

 

[rnatalie]

It does. None of the exemptions would seem to apply here and the one shown in your right-hand picture (where it's bearing against the grid) really makes me concerned.

 

[rnatalie]

In addition, the holes in those tiles are almost certainly against the building code(s). The IBC requires installation to follow ASTM and the Manufacturer's requirements and random punching of holes in a tile is not approved.

 

[Rock86]

Thanks

 

[tom baker]

To see how this can be done correctly, next time you are in Costco look at the cord drops in the bakery. The cord is required to be visible for its entire length.

 

[jusme123]

 

[LarryFine]

I made this, as in I made the hole in the blank SS plate.

 

[Rock86]

View attachment 2554254

That is what I would have liked to have seen.

 

[rnatalie]

Yep, We either see Dr. Fine's solution or in the case of a room like in the original photo, we just run a raceway BELOW the ceiling.

 

[hillbilly1]

That’s what we used to call “K-Mart power poles” LOL! K-Mart would have their employee’s drop extension cords through the ceilings.

 

[gadfly56]

In addition, the holes in those tiles are almost certainly against the building code(s). The IBC requires installation to follow ASTM and the Manufacturer's requirements and random punching of holes in a tile is not approved.

As a bonus, the drop in tile is considered as part of the fire rating for the room, usually about 15 minutes. Punching holes in it sort of drops that to 0 minutes.

 

[Meltric_South]

View attachment 2554254

Strain relief on the plug is not sufficient here. I can tell because the cable is pulling out of the plug. Pretty common OSHA violation from what people tell me, as it does not meet the manufacturer's installation recommendations.