Since my last post, I have been called to several sites to replace the outlet strip/extension cord assemblies with recognised permaent wiring assemblies ("plugmold").
I find it interesting that UL isn't concerned about the possibility that you might use plugmold to put 'too many receptacles' on a branch circuit.
In many of these sites, plugmold is used, because there is a desire to not disturb the asbestos in the walls.
I also note that the various plugmold products do not provide the surge protection often associated with outlet strips. As some plugmold is set up as a multiwire branch circuit, I consider surge protection very important.
It sure is a lot easier to find a violation, than to solve problems.
As a footnote, I see no justification for the ways we apply code to the numbers of receptacles on a circuit. Nor do I see an easy way for code to address this 'design' issue.
While too few circuits is often the cause of problems, and complicates troubleshooting, there are many times when we know what a receptacle will be used for- and the load is known to be trivial.
There is no substitute for good design. Yet, I doubt that we will see every desk have its' own two circuits!
