Schools and pvc

[lmchenry]

Do you know of any code NEC or otherwise that pertains to PVC run in schools?

 

[kkwong]

Not to my knowledge....Do you have a state agency that governs the installation of schools?

 

[lmchenry]

No not to my knowledge. Other than what the state fire marshall looks at.

 

[kkwong]

In CA schools are built and approved by DSA. I have seen many runs of PVC in the schools as underground especially to portable class rooms. I rarely see it above grade. Is there a particular issue?

 

[steve66]

maybe article 518 of the NEC.

Steve

 

[lmchenry]

I only think that parts of a school would be 518. I have branch circuits inside some schools here in TN that are in pvc. They have been added recently and the school is about 30 yrs old. I have had someone tell me that pvc is not allowed in schools above grade.

 

[dnem]

Do you know of any code NEC or otherwise that pertains to PVC run in schools?

Kinda yes, kinda no. . Depends on what part of the school building you're talking about.
Article518 for 100 occupancy or more
518.4(A) says nonmet raceways must be encased in 2" of concrete.
But 518.2(B) says: "Article 518 applies only to that portion of the building considered an assembly occupancy." . So it depends on what room you're talking about.

For a theater in a school of any occupancy size, 518.2(C) says look at 520. . And 520.5(A) says nonmet raceways must be encased in 2" of concrete.

I have had someone tell me that pvc is not allowed in schools above grade.

"above grade" kinda, it's not abovegrade/belowgrade, it's actually inside/outside
230.6 says under the slab is outside of the building.
Altho 230 is services, that concept is used for any application.

 

[lmchenry]

How about in a electrical room up to the drop ceiling down to a mechanical room?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

How about in a electrical room up to the drop ceiling down to a mechanical room?

If the ceiling is not a plenum ,the pvc does not cross any areas that 518 covers and the rating of the building is such that PVC is acceptable, then go for it.

 

[SeanB]

I read recently about the lead levels in pvc are pretty bad. When they are heated it is even worse.

 

[steveng]

If the ceiling is not a plenum ,the pvc does not cross any areas that 518 covers and the rating of the building is such that PVC is acceptable, then go for it.

what is the definition of a plenum ceiling? is a drop ceiling considered plenum?

 

[dnem]

what is the definition of a plenum ceiling? is a drop ceiling considered plenum?

Look for the cold air returns.

Are they ducted ?
Or does the air handler pull return air from above the drop ceiling.

It's all about determining if you have ducted cold air returns.

 

[tom baker]

Parts of the school can be a 518 or 520 application. Take a look at the .1 section to see where they apply, there is a subtle difference between the two in terms of wiring methods. In Washington we require a plan review for a school.