14.) The flexible connection to emergency system equipment in hospitals.
517.30 (C) (3) Mechanical Protection of the Emergency System
Too often there is a failure to recognize and install a compliant wiring method delivering power for emergency system luminaires in locations covered under applications defined in 517.30(A). The use of unprotected flexible metal raceways or cable methods is only permitted under specific conditions. The failure to recognize this requirement appears to come from a misunderstanding of the language found in Section 517.30(C)(3)(3)d. The permitted method depends upon the conditions and circumstances related to the installation and choice of the method. The intent is to protect the integrity of the emergency system from adverse conditions, particularly potential physical damage.
517.30(C)(3) Mechanical Protection of the Emergency System.
The wiring of the emergency system in hospitals shall be mechanically protected. Where installed as branch circuits in patient care areas, the installation shall comply with the requirements of 517.13(A) and 517.13(B). The following methods shall be permitted:
(3) Listed flexible metal raceways and listed metal sheathed cable assemblies in any of the following:d. Where necessary for flexible connection to equipment
An example of the abuse of the permission to install a flexible cabling method is when luminaires fed from the emergency branch circuits are connected from ceiling outlets using a flexible wiring method. The language specifically indicates: "where necessary for flexible connection." The intent is clear that it is only permitted "where necessary" not where convenient, possible, preferred or easier! The option to use a flexible wiring method would have to be "identified" as "necessary" where it relates to the connection of the equipment and "approved" by both State and Local Authorities Having Jurisdiction. If the intention to use a flexible wiring method in this application to connect emergency luminaires is for reasons of convenience, preference, ease of installation, or financial, it is not considered "NECESSARY!"