November 9, 2016 – Up to code? Test yourself with our monthly Code Conundrum!

QUESTION 1
When a service switch is marked for continuous operation at 100% and is supplied by multi-conductor cable, what is the maximum continuous load permitted?

a) 100%  
b) 80%
c) 85%   
d) 70%

QUESTION 2
What is the minimum size copper bonding conductor that can be secured to the surface on which it is carried (with mechanical protection)?
    
a) 10 AWG   
b) 6 AWG
c) 4 AWG
d) 2/0 AWG

QUESTION 3
A 5-15R receptacle mounted outdoors at 750mm above finished grade requires a cover plate:

a) suitable for wet location, whether a plug is inserted into the receptacle or not
b) marked “Extra Duty”
c) marked “Wet Location Only When Cover Closed”
d) A and B
e) B and C

Answers to these questions next month. Meantime, here are the answers to the October 2016 Code Conundrum:

Question 1
Class H fuses can be used for overcurrent protection in places where circuit overload protection is provided by other means.

b) False. Rule 14-212.

Question 2
The maximum voltage for a Class 2 circuit is:

d) 150V. Rule 16-200.

Question 3
The space within 6m (horizontally in any direction) from dip tanks and their drain boards, and extending to a height of 1m above the tank, is considered:

a) Class I, zone 1. Rule 20-302.

HOW DID YOU DO?

• 3/3 = Master Electrician
• 2/3 = Journeyman
• 1/3 = Apprentice
• 0/3 = Plumber?!?

The Code Conundrum is compiled by Ray Yousef of Ontario’s Electrical Safety Authority.

N.B. Always consult your AHJ for more specific interpretations.

* This article also appears in the November 2016 edition of Electrical Business Magazine. Check out our ARCHIVE page for back issues.