CASE STUDY 18: |
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| The relevant code sections are below: |
From 2020 NEC section 690.31(A): Where PV source and output circuits operating at maximum
system voltages greater than 30 volts are installed in
readily accessible locations, circuit conductors shall be
guarded or installed in Type MC Cable or in a raceway. |
From 2020 NEC, definition of readily accessible: Accessible, Readily (Readily Accessible). Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to take actions such as to use tools (other than keys), to climb over or under, to remove obstacles, or to resort to portable ladders, and so forth. |
| From 2020 NEC, definition of guarded: Guarded. Covered, shielded, fenced, enclosed, or otherwise protected by means of suitable covers, casings, barriers, rails, screens, mats, or platforms to remove the likelihood of approach or contact by persons or objects to a point of danger. |
From 2020 NEC, definition of Enclosed: Enclosed. Surrounded by a case, housing, fence, or wall(s) that prevents persons from accidentally contacting energized parts. |
From book Design Guide to the 1997 Uniform Building Code (Hardcover) by Richard T. Conrad: The enforcement official who chooses to ignore the code...places both the jurisdiction and the official in serious jeopardy. Cases have ruled that both the individual and the jurisdiction can sustain liability if the action by the official was knowingly wrong. (page 415) |
From Mike Holt of mikeholt.com (Mike's response in italics):
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More information: Work we have done to develop wire shielding techniques Examples of NEC compliant ground mount solar installations Negligence on the part of the County of San Luis Obispo in failing to enforce these codes Examples of non-NEC compliant work allowed by the County of San Luis Obispo Building Department |