Wiring Protection

[David Wiles]

2005 NEC section 300.4 (B)(2) Protection against physical damage.
Question: Does the NM-cable going into the hole at the back of the electrical box require protection if it is within 1 1/4 inches of the stud face of the backside of the wall?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

2005 NEC section 300.4 (B)(2) Protection against physical damage.
Question: Does the NM-cable going into the hole at the back of the electrical box require protection if it is within 1 1/4 inches of the stud face of the backside of the wall?

Technically it probably does but realistically I have never seen anyone get tagged for it.

 

[wbalsam1]

I'd say "yes" in the sense that is it subject to damage from a sheetrock screw or similar fastener. :smile:

 

[alfiesauce]

When dealing with a single gang box on a 2x4 take the wires in the hole on the far side of the box, not the hole right up against the stud- this should make the inspectors happy.

 

[steelersman]

2005 NEC section 300.4 (B)(2) Protection against physical damage.
Question: Does the NM-cable going into the hole at the back of the electrical box require protection if it is within 1 1/4 inches of the stud face of the backside of the wall?

I've never had to and never heard of anyone else having to. I've never thought of that, but can possibly see it being a problem but mostlikely not since I've never found that to be a cause of any problems while troubleshooting.

 

[alfiesauce]

If I have to, for some reason enter a box right up against the stud I throw a plate on.

 

[steelersman]

If I have to, for some reason enter a box right up against the stud I throw a plate on.

this is a first for me even hearing about this. Interesting.

 

[alfiesauce]

if it's a 2x6 then you are away from the edge so you don't have to worry about it.

 

[William1978]

2005 NEC section 300.4 (B)(2) Protection against physical damage.
Question: Does the NM-cable going into the hole at the back of the electrical box require protection if it is within 1 1/4 inches of the stud face of the backside of the wall?

I would say yes if its within an 11/4" of the face of the stud. If on a rough inspection the brick venier hasn't been laid yet I get stud guards on the outside of the exterior walls if the hole is too close because they use 8 penny nails to nail the brick ties to the house.

 

[SEO]

2005 NEC section 300.4 (B)(2) Protection against physical damage.
Question: Does the NM-cable going into the hole at the back of the electrical box require protection if it is within 1 1/4 inches of the stud face of the backside of the wall?

Technically yes and I have heard of it being written as a violation. Welcome to the forum.

 

[splinetto]

With the 22 cu in boxes ,on a 2x4 wall, Ive found siding nails poking into the back off the box....They are probably 1/2 in from the edge

 

[Dwiles]

I appreciate all the input from you guys. As an Inspector I would expect the cable to be protected.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I appreciate all the input from you guys. As an Inspector I would expect the cable to be protected.

Think about it. The box isn't protected. You want the box protected also?

BTW. After a few posts you will be able to respond (post) without having to wait. The forum is program to have the mods check out newcomers to make sure they are not spammers, etc. Post a few times and you will be good- no need to keep changing your screen name.:smile:

 

[alfiesauce]

Think about it. The box isn't protected. You want the box protected also?

You can visually inspect inside the box for damage, you cannot visually inspect outside the box easily.

 

[ivsenroute]

There is a lot of talk about 2x4's and 2x6's but 300.4(B)(2) is for metal studs and framing members, not wood framing.

In my opinion, adding more protector plates on the other side of the wall would not be required as long as the bushings were installed in the steel studs.

I have never been called on that situation in 25 years and as an inspector for the past 7 I have never called out anyone else on that either. Your mileage may vary in your part of the country.

 

[stickboy1375]

Here is what Carlon has to say...

It is acceptable for the NM Cable to enter the outlet box through its knockouts even though it comes close to the drywall. The NEC is concerned with damage to the cable from nails or screws. Outlet boxes are usually located low to the floor or above counter spaces. Also switches will be found near door opens and a little above the waist. It is unlikely that a picture would be hung in these areas. Section 300.4(B)(2) does state that "if" it is likely that a screw or nail would penetrate the cable than a steel plate needs to be used.