iwire ---
You seem to insist that the AHJ is the only person who has the ability to decide issues such as "likely to be subject to damage." I think that engineers are better positioned to make that decision.
I am just an engineer. I am liable for the work I do. NO ONE tells me to change my plans and material specs unless they accept ALL of my liability.
If you and your office wish to accept full liability for my work, I will allow you to require make decisions about this issue. Until then it is up to me and me alone to decide.
edited to add:
I have no objection to the NEC including a definition of "likely to be subject to damage." That definition might include above ground when outside of the building envelope. If that definition is included in the NEC, while I might oppose the definition, I will follow it.
[This message has been edited by George (edited 11-10-2005).]
