NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

Which of the following situations is a violation of the electrical code regarding conduit?

1. Randomly supported with no spacing requirement

2. Installed without protective fittings

3. Bends made too tight

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Bends made too tight

The situation described in option C involves bends made too tight, which is a violation of the electrical code regarding conduit. When bending conduit, it is essential to adhere to specific minimum bend radius requirements set forth by the NEC (National Electrical Code). Tight bends can lead to several problems, such as damaging the conductors inside, reducing the conduit’s overall integrity, and making it difficult to pull wires through. This violation compromises the safety and functionality of the electrical system. In contrast, options A and B reflect different types of violations. Randomly supporting conduit without adherence to spacing requirements found in the NEC can lead to mechanical stress on the conduit and wires, possibly resulting in damage and safety hazards. Similarly, installing conduit without protective fittings can expose the conductors to physical damage or environmental factors that could compromise their integrity. However, the question asked for a specific violation among the listed options, and option C stands as the most critical example since it directly impacts the function of the electrical installation and the safety of the system. Understanding the reasoning behind these standards can help ensure compliance with codes and promote safe electrical practices.