Electricmanscott:
Yes, I too agree that these are OK, and were required here because the distance was more that 1-1/4 " from the face of the stud to the first part of the drilled hole.
Does the Massachusetts Electrical Code amendments have a smaller distance here?
NOTE: Here's a Proposed Change for the 2005 NEC:
Proposal 3-24, Section 300.4(A)(1).
The Panel accepted a new type of nail plate
less than the standard 1/16 in. thick plate from previous codes. This plate must be listed as an equivalent to the 1/16 in. plate plus be individually marked so the inspector can verify its listing even after installation.
Now I can see some new inspector calling for "listed plates" if this is put into the code, probably with no field experience!
Everyone knows what a "GEM BOX" is, right?
Thanks for you comment!!