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Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Question:

Hello Code Friends, when installing carwashes, there are several cables that come from the machine and go to the wall via a boom assembly. These cables are then wired into a  control box on a wall. I have attempted to put this control box into a back room passing the cables through a protected hole in the wall. It has been hit or miss but I have been flagged for passing SOW cord into a back room. Is there a definitive code for, or against this?

Thanks,

Phil Wood

A

Answer:

Phil, the installation of flexible cords such as SO or SOW, are covered by the scope of NEC Article 400. Installing SOW cord thru a wall would not be permitted under Section 400.8(2) of the 2014 NEC.
Unless specifically permitted in 400.7, flexible cords and cables shall not be used for the following:
(1) As a substitute for fixed wiring of a structure.
(2) Where run through holes in walls, structural ceilings, suspended ceilings, or floors
 

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