Interpretation #6936

Published March 20, 2012

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Original Request

Code Version
2007
Code
ELECTRIC
Code Description
Electrical
Chapter
5
Section
525.30(3)
Topic
Tents - electrical grounding

Question

Is it the intent of NEC 525.30(3) to require individual tents with metal support structures such as the ones used at art shows,carnivals,and festivals,to be bonded to the equipment grounding conductor of the circuit supplying it.

Answer Published 03/20/2012 at 11:00 AM

Yes. The key here is the phrase, "likely to be
energized." If the outlet at the tent is used for a
computer, cash register, table lamp, then the frame does
not need to be bonded. If the metal frame is used as
any sort of support for the circuit, it requires bonding.

Commentary

This of course is in addition to 525.23 which mandate GFCI protect and 525.20 which require all cord connections be kept off the ground.