18-28 Log #3639 NEC-P18 Final Action: Accept in Principle
(406.8(A))
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Submitter: Aaron B. Chase, Leviton Mfg. Co. Inc.
Recommendation: Revise text to read:
406.8 Receptacles in Damp or Wet Locations.
(A) Damp Locations. A receptacle installed outdoors in a location protected
from the weather or in other damp locations shall have an enclosure for the
receptacle that is weatherproof when the receptacle is covered (attachment plug
cap not inserted and receptacle covers closed).
An installation suitable for wet locations shall also be considered suitable for
damp locations.
A receptacle shall be considered to be in a location protected from the
weather where located under roofed open porches, canopies, marquees, and the
like, and will not be subjected to a beating rain or water runoff.
The receptacle shall be a Listed weather-resistant type.
Substantiation: The protection of outdoor receptacles in damp locations via
weatherproof cover plates is commendable. Unfortunately in reality, the outlets
intended to be protected are often subjected to exposure to water; UV and
impact. The protection of outlets typically used in indoor environments as well
is often not afforded this protection as anticipated by the current text of 406.8.
Unfortunately, many of these protective covers are defeated by either the user
intentionally or unintentionally breaking off the protective covers. Often in
other cases there is a misapplication of the proper cover plate when a vertical
closing plate is used in a horizontal application due to limited space after
construction was planned out. The submitter has also seen unfortunately in the
South Eastern USA a propensity for outlet covers not to be the self closing type. Additionally, 406.8 is misapplied in that the weatherproof enclosure is
often used with a product that 406.8(B)(2)(a) addresses as a product needing a
wet while-in-use cover. This often results from the homeowner’s needs.
Consequentially, receptacles are being exposed to moisture, UV and impact
under detrimental conditions (low temperatures). These products have not been
constructed or evaluated to being exposed to harsh conditions. An appropriately
Listed weather resistant outlet (able to withstand the harsh elements) is needed
to address the associated hazards with electrical products and outdoor use.
Statistical data* has illustrated the need for a more weather resilient device in
spite of the use of protective covers. The inclusion of the proposed additional
text in conjunction with the existing code language would address this
dangerous condition and noted failure rates.
*A joint NEMA/UL Field study revealed that the greatest number of
inoperable GFCI receptacles were located outdoors. The rate of failure was
more than double the next highest known location.
Panel Meeting Action: Accept in Principle
In addition to the recommended text, add a new last sentence to read as
follows:
This listed weather-resistant requirement shall become effective on January 1,
2011.
Panel Statement: A new last sentence was added to ensure availability.
Number Eligible to Vote: 12
Ballot Results: Affirmative: 12
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