Wires must be protected, in 7' perimeter???

[bwilliams627]

This is one of the notes left by the inspector after his rough-in inspection on a new construction project that we are finishing up. The inspector is applying this to the attic access ladder. I've never heard of this rule. Has anyone else?

 

[wwhitney]

See 320.23, which is also referenced by several of the other cable Articles.

Cheers, Wayne

 

[bwilliams627]

Seems to me that Article 320.xx is concerning armored cable.

 

[Eddie702]

If the attic has a permeant stairway like a pull-down stairway or walk upstairs the wiring needs to be protected within x# of fee from the attic entrance (6' I think).

If it a scuttle hole where you use a step ladder it does not need protection. At least that was my understanding.

 

[bwilliams627]

My apologies, I see that 334.23 references 320.23.

 

[letgomywago]

Run strapping of 2by4 on either side of the NM and all will be well. It's annoying but man I've hated stepping on wires the second I jump in the scuttle hole. It's a rule for a reason