BX Cable Installation Archives

I found this one gang plastic nail-on box in the ceiling of a client's basement. It has a type AC (BX) metal armored cable and a non-metallic cable spliced together. The non-metallic cable has a grounding conductor. BX cable normally uses its metal armor outer jacket as the grounding conductor, but it must be connected properly. A BX cable should be spliced inside of a metal box so that the armor ground is carried over to the metal of the box by using the proper cable connector. If a plastic box is used it is necessary to attach a BX connector with a metal grounding bushing onto the BX cable. A grounding conductor is then connected to the lug on the grounding bushing. This electrical box should also have a blank plastic cover on it. This is clearly a naughty electrical code and safety violation.

Naughty Electrical Code and Safety Violations

Dear Mr. Electrician: The home inspector said my house has a lot of naughty electrical code and safety violations. How can I identify the...

When you get to the construction phase of your home renovation project, you must be mindful of your personal safety as well as the safety of people and property that may be in proximity to your work. I wash my hands frequently while working because I come in contact with all kinds of things. I always have hand wipes available. Hard hats, gloves, and safety glasses offer the very basic personal protection. For certain tasks additional safety precautions need to be taken. For instance when working around live electricity, an electrician would need insulated tools and gloves rated for the voltages that he or she works on. Additionally it is important to conduct yourself in a safe manner during construction. Be mindful of heavy lifting or reaching in awkward positions. Use a ladder when working on the ceiling, or anything high for that matter. Chairs, buckets, milk crates, and anything else not made to be stood on, should not be stood on. One bad fall can change your life forever.

Tag: BX Cable Installation

Naughty Electrical Code and Safety Violations