Hello everyone, I'm working on a project were I will have emergency system wiring in patient areas. I am aware that section 517.30(3) requires this wiring to be protected mechanically (i.e. non-flexible metal raceway). However, 517.30(3)(3)c says where they are "fished into existing walls or ceilings, not otherwise accessible and not subject to physical damage." are allowed to not be in metal raceways. The project I'm working has a new ceiling made up of ceiling tiles. The local fire marshal is allowing us to not place smoke detectors in the space above ceiling because the ceiling tiles being used weigh more than 2lbs/square foot. To the fire marshal this is "inaccessible". Can I interpret this inaccessibility as the same inaccessibility mentioned in the NEC? In other words, once the ceiling is up, the wiring will not be "accessible" and it won't be subject to physical damage, so will I be in compliance with 517.30(b)(3)?
Thanks and I appreciate any input.
Thanks and I appreciate any input.
