The question is about securing a rigid conduit when replacing a service panel. 344.30(A)(1) requires that RMC shall be "securely fastened" within 3 ft of the cabinet. It is the same for intermediate conduit and EMT. There is an exception for EMT that allows the tubing to be fished in existing construction as long as there is a continuous stick. That seems odd that the least robust raceway is allowed to forgo being securely fastened within 3 ft.
The first picture was the case that was shown to me. Clearly, there has been enough plaster removed to accomplish the task of securing the conduit. However, there is more to the story.
The second picture shows the typical situation when an inspector attempts an inspection.
This picture is a familiar occurrence.
The last picture shows an opportunity to get it done correctly...although I wouldn't count it.
The question becomes; would you ask that the plaster be removed and the raceway secured in every case? How about when the original service entrance raceway has been reused? The 3 ft. can grow to 5 ft. and in many cases the top of the cabinet is close to 5 ft from the wall top plates.
344.30(A)(2) Fastening shall be permitted to be increased to a distance of (5 ft) where structural members do not readily permit fastening within (3 ft).
Granted, the structural members would readily permit fastening within 3 ft. but apparently 5 ft. is not a deal breaker.
The first picture was the case that was shown to me. Clearly, there has been enough plaster removed to accomplish the task of securing the conduit. However, there is more to the story.
The second picture shows the typical situation when an inspector attempts an inspection.
This picture is a familiar occurrence.
The last picture shows an opportunity to get it done correctly...although I wouldn't count it.
The question becomes; would you ask that the plaster be removed and the raceway secured in every case? How about when the original service entrance raceway has been reused? The 3 ft. can grow to 5 ft. and in many cases the top of the cabinet is close to 5 ft from the wall top plates.
344.30(A)(2) Fastening shall be permitted to be increased to a distance of (5 ft) where structural members do not readily permit fastening within (3 ft).
Granted, the structural members would readily permit fastening within 3 ft. but apparently 5 ft. is not a deal breaker.
