weather tight

[mhayes]

does anyone know of documentation somewhere where it states that electrical work (specifically conduit and boxes) cannot begin until the building is closed in and weather tight?

 

[crossman]

In the 2008 NEC, some wording was added along those lines.

2008 NEC 110.11

It doesn't state that no work can be done until the building is closed in, it just states that equipment and conductors must be protected from environments in which they are not intended. In other words, don't take a piece of equipment intended for dry locations only and install it in a structure which doesn't have a roof which will let rain soak the equipment. Now, you could install the equipment as long as you keep it protected.

 

[haskindm]

It doesn't. 110.11 does say that equipment not suitable for damp or wet locations shall be protected "against permanent damage from the weather during building construction". What is meant by permanent damage and what is acceptable as protection is open for debate.

 

[benaround]

mhayes, I don't see where conduit (emt) and boxes would be a problem, also

look at the Definition of Location,Dry it might surprize you.

 

[paul]

I've installed conduit and boxes in buildings that were literally raining on the inside. Now NM was never allowed to be installed until it was dried in.

 

[rcarroll]

Now NM was never allowed to be installed until it was dried in.

I think I remember that being in the '75 or '78 codes, but I don't think it applies any longer. Look at 334.12(B)(4), & then see the definition of dry location. I believe romex can be installed prior to a building being dried in.

 

[benaround]

I agree with rcarroll.

 

[mdshunk]

We can't go too hog-wild here, or we'd never be able to let tails and such hang out for exterior fixtures.