Type SO cord usage

[jchrist]

We are installing indirect lighting in several office areas that is cable hung below a suspended "cloud". The cloud is made of t-bar grid that is 12 to 18 inches below a concrete slab for the next floor above. The t-bar is not connected to any of the walls in any of the rooms, it just hangs in the middle of the room. The local inspector is not allowing the cord to be exposed above the cloud as his interpretation is that the cloud is a ceiling. The function of the cloud is to act as a reflector and is little more than an architectural appurtenance.

Has anyone run into this issue? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

[tom baker]

Re: Type SO cord usage

I would agree with the AHJ. Rules for Art 400 have been changed in the last two cycles to make it clear that portable cord can't be used where concealed by a ceiling. The intent of the rule is the cord must be visable for its entire length. I have seen applications of cord where after 15 years the cord has dried up and cracked.
If you can't see the power to the fixtures, why not use ac or mc cable fixture whips?

 

[Hi]

Re: Type SO cord usage

I run into this all the time. Cord used when light fixtures were installed in our hospital machine rooms 20 years ago : dried up insulation and bare wire showing. Very bad choice. Not tough enough for abuse. Not able to stand up to the heat generated by ballasts. Insulation on conductors is very poor. Must be rated insulation suitable for temperatures generated by ballasts and the same goes for the wire nuts.