ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Question for inspectors

JG- we are talking about removing a receptacle for repairs or replacment, not for inspection by the inspector. In any case, if you have a multiwire branch circuit consisting of 2 or 3 ungrounded conductors and one grounded conductor (neutral) you are using the neutral for a common return for 2 or 3 wires. When you interrupt the neutral, this applies usually 240v. to the receptacles down stream from that point where you interrupted the neutral. If you "pigtail" the neutral, this won't happen.

Pierre- If the lights don't work- I can't inspect the receptacles

As a matter of fact that is a good point, especially in commercial we see them using a 480/277v. system and the multiwire circuit is common. We need to make sure that the common conductor is "pigtailed" here also in case they choose to replace or relocate a fixture. This item probably gets overlooked quite often by inspectors, present company included.

[This message has been edited by George Little (edited 12-05-2004).]

Gentlemen:
Resi 'rough' & comm too:
Spacing & check firewalls (if any)
Splices at all boxes, recept, switch, lighting (recessed & boxes), fan rated boxes, etc.
Grounds must be made-up, metal boxes bonded, jackets cut-back, etc
Neutrals on multi-wire made-up.

Some ec's make-up all splices, some don't.

Final means everything must be 100%. The cover issue? A judgement call, a phone call, or sometimes a red sticker, like Bob says.

BTW, personally I prefer to see all splices 'made-up'; my guys do it as SOP, comm, and what little resi we do.
John