Spider boxes

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widgery

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Orange County
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Inspector
HI, I need code references for reasons not to use spider boxes as permanent power (currently wanted for outside). Can anyone direct me to this?
 
As in a temporary recept bundle on a cord? It's temporary, also it has no way of being covered while in-use, also it's on a cord.... maybe I'm thinking of something else though...
 
What is the type of outdoor use? If for carnivals, circuses, fairs, and similar functions look at other restrictions and/or permissions in Article 525.
 
zbang said:
Not necessarily, it could be used under 525 for fairgrounds.

Infinity and I had the same thought. And if it's being removed every so often, even for a day, it's no longer in continuous use.
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fairs and carnivals by their nature are temporary.
525.1 enhanced content:
Article 525 addresses the installation of portable wiring and equipment for temporary attractions, such as carnivals, circuses, and fairs
 
like they said just move it 15 feet every month or what ever you want now it’s not permanent-

They can’t controle what’s not physically attached to building—- once past recep its—

I know see you don’t like that idea-
I still say it’s okay
 
4-20mA said:
As in a temporary recept bundle on a cord? It's temporary, also it has no way of being covered while in-use, also it's on a cord.... maybe I'm thinking of something else though...
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If you look at the Southwire description for the similar product, it says:

  • WATERPROOF FEATURES: Designed for use in wet or rainy conditions, this box is rated NEMA-3 for rainproof durability, ensuring safety with all outlets equipped with waterproof covers
I would agree, that this configuration is not water proof while in use, yet the misleading description would lead one to indicate that it is.
 
1) Even if this is permanent, I am not sure that 400.12(1) applies. If I have a receptacle on an outside wall, a spiderbox with an inlet some distance outside, and a cord between them, I don't see that as the cord being used in place of the fixed wiring of a structure. It is _outside_ (not part of a structure), and can clearly be quickly replaced (not fixed).

2) A spiderbox is a pretty generic term, and could certainly include devices designed to be 'waterproof in use'.

-Jonathan
 
VirutalElectrician said:
If you look at the Southwire description for the similar product, it says:

  • WATERPROOF FEATURES: Designed for use in wet or rainy conditions, this box is rated NEMA-3 for rainproof durability, ensuring safety with all outlets equipped with waterproof covers
I would agree, that this configuration is not water proof while in use, yet the misleading description would lead one to indicate that it is.
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You have to use the proper matching Hubbell watertight plugs on your cables.
 
winnie said:
1) Even if this is permanent, I am not sure that 400.12(1) applies. If I have a receptacle on an outside wall, a spiderbox with an inlet some distance outside, and a cord between them, I don't see that as the cord being used in place of the fixed wiring of a structure. It is _outside_ (not part of a structure), and can clearly be quickly replaced (not fixed).

2) A spiderbox is a pretty generic term, and could certainly include devices designed to be 'waterproof in use'.

-Jonathan
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I am reading permanent as being installed and believe when you install the spider box as opposed to just letting it set as intended, the supply becomes permanent wiring and you can't supply it with a cord.
 
I am thinking there are semantics here and the OP needs to define WHAT the spider box is feeding. If it is feeding a portable plug connected load it isn't article 590 Temporary wiring. Take an RV, for example. If I have a receptacle in the hard and I plug in the RV, The wiring from the plug on isn't subject to the temporary wiring code any more than a plug strip behind your TV is.
 
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