Video Information
This video will follow CCPIA Instructor Bob Aey as he performs an electrical inspection of the historic First National Bank in Rock River, Wyoming. The First National Bank was originally built in 1919, but has undergone more recent renovations. Some components of its electrical system were redone a year prior to Bob’s inspection. As you’ll see in this course, a recent alteration or repair on a building doesn’t mean that finding defects is less likely. Some of the defects are beyond the International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties (ComSOP), and more relevant to the National Electrical Code (NEC)® and the National Electrical Safety Code, or other local codes or regulations in effect.
Fusible Combination Starter, the Vault, and Exposed Wires Defects
The last video of this course covers a fusible combination starter that was connected to the public safety alert system (horn). A fusible combination starter will always be fastened shut. A screwdriver will likely be needed to open the box. This video also covers various locations of exposed wires.
Defects:
- Fuse and amp consistency: In a combination motor starter disconnect, the type of amp for all fuses should be the same. In the video, the combination motor starter disconnect has various amps and types of fuses. The fuses installed include 40 amp and 35 amp, and renewable and non-renewable. A renewable fuse is labeled “REN,” while a non-renewable amp is labeled “NON.”
- Conduit strapping: All conduit should be strapped. Generally, conduit should be supported within 3 feet of a box, with additional attachments no more than 10 feet apart. In the video, no strapping is present at this electrical system.
- EMT connector: EMT connectors are used to secure EMT conduits to a metallic electrical box. In the video, an incorrect connector is used to connect the conduit to the box. Make sure the connector on an electrical box matches the conduit application. This can be verified with listed and labeled packaging.
- Exposed wiring: All exposed wire at a commercial property should be blanked off or removed. In the video, exposed wiring is present where a light fixture was installed. This is a safety hazard.