Quick Hits

Episode 2: Protection Against Physical Damage & Framing (720.6)

SLIDE 1 (HOOK / COVER) ⚡ NEC Quick Hit: Limited-Energy Physical Protection (Part 2 - Article 720) ⚡

Boring through studs, running cables near metal framing, or decking out low-voltage lines under corrugated roofs—Section 720.6 sets strict physical protection rules. Let's break it down! 👇

SLIDE 2 (BORED HOLES & NOTCHES IN WOOD) Maintaining Clearance in Wood Members:

• The 1¼ Inch Rule: Where cables or raceways pass through bored holes in joists, rafters, or studs, the hole edge must be at least 32 mm (1¼ in.) from the edge of the wood.

• Steel Plate Protection: If that 1¼-inch clearance cannot be maintained, you must install a steel plate at least 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) thick to protect against screw and nail penetration.

SLIDE 3 (METAL FRAMING & ROOF DECKING) Protecting Cables in Metal & Roof Spaces:

• Metal Framing: Unarmored limited-energy cables passing through metal framing slots or holes must be protected by securely fastened listed bushings or grommets.

• Roof Decking: Cables and raceways installed under metal-corrugated roof decking must maintain at least 38 mm (1½ in.) clearance from the lowest surface of the decking.

SLIDE 4 (WRAP-UP) 💡 Apprentice Pro-Tip:

Safety-control equipment (where damage introduces a direct fire or life hazard) requires absolute physical protection. Low-voltage thermostat wires don't count as safety-control equipment, but critical life-safety links do!

💬 Save this post for your next low-voltage framing and routing check! 🔗

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