Attic Access Nec

Type ac cables in accessible attics or.

Attic access nec.

A pull down attic ladder does not count. An attic that is accessible which is defined by the nec as having a permanently installed stair or ladder in place must have protection for any cables that run across the top of the attic floor joists or within 7 feet where they run across the face of rafters or studs. Where the attic space is accessible through a scuttle hole the protection is required only within 6 feet of the scuttle hole. If the attic space is smaller than these specs then an access hatch is not required.

The national electric code has another definition for damp locations that is more subjective but if you think the receptacle is going to get wet use an in use. The access opening should be located in a hallway or other readily accessible location and minimum 22 x 30. Don t have the nec infront of me right now to quote it. The installation of cable in accessible attics or roof spaces shall also comply with 320 23 nec 320 23 in accessible attics.

I m sure this is in the nec too somewhere. Below is a preview of article 210. Here s the full text of the code. Once there click on their link to free access to the 2017 nec edition of nfpa 70.

For a sheetrock lid type attic access locating a pull chain type luminaire just above the attic access lid is code compliant as long as the luminaire is also adjacent to the equipment requiring servicing. Another point to remember is that section 333 12 requires this protection in the entire attic space only if it is accessible by permanent stairs or ladders. The national electrical code defines a wet location as an area that is subject to saturation with water or other liquids and unprotected locations exposed to the weather.