Wet Locations

DOE-HDBK-1092-98

8.1.3 WET LOCATIONS

Conductors with nonrated weather-proof insulation shall not be enclosed in metal raceways or used

for wiring in tanks, penstocks, or tunnels. Receptacles used in damp or wet locations shall be

approved for the purpose. When a receptacle is installed outdoors (outdoors is considered a wet

location), it shall be contained in a weatherproof enclosure, the integrity of which would not be

affected when an attachment plug is inserted.

All temporary lighting strings in outdoor or wet locations, such as tunnels, culverts, valve pits,

outlets, and floating plants, shall consist of lamp sockets and connection plugs permanently molded

to the hard service cord insulation.

8.1.4 SUPPORTS

Bare or open conductors shall be insulated from their supports. This requirement prevents arcing,

sparking, or flash-over to grounded objects. Open wiring for temporary installations is only allowed

as per NEC Section 305-4(b) and (c) Exceptions.

8.1.5 CONDUIT

Temporary wiring installed in conduit shall have bushings at all outlets and terminals to prevent

abrasion and damage to the insulation.

8.1.6 LIGHTING

All lamps for general illumination should be protected from accidental contact or breakage. Metal-

case sockets shall be grounded.

Temporary lights shall not be suspended by their electric cords unless cords and lights are designed

for this means of suspension. Temporary lighting used in damp, wet, or hazardous areas shall be

marked as suitable for use in those locations.

Portable electric lighting used in wet or other conductive locations (for example, drums, tanks, and

vessels) shall be operated at 12 V or less. However, 120-V lights may be used if protected by a ground

fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

Receptales on construction sites shall not be installed on branch circuits that supply temporary

lighting. [See NEC Section 305-4(d)]

8.1.7 CONFINED SPACES

When temporary wiring is used in tanks or other confined spaces, an approved disconnecting means

(identified and marked) shall be provided at or near the entrance to such spaces for cutting off the

power supply in emergencies.

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