Should a raceway on the exterior of a building be listed or approved for wet locations?

The correct understanding regarding the requirements for a raceway on the exterior of a building revolves around its intended use and the environmental conditions it will face. A raceway that is installed outdoors, particularly in locations that are exposed to water, moisture, or other wet conditions, must comply with safety standards to ensure that it can function safely and effectively.

When stating that a raceway can be either listed or approved, it acknowledges that both options are valid under the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines. A listed raceway has been tested and certified by an independent testing laboratory, indicating it meets specific standards for wet locations. Alternatively, an approved raceway may not necessarily be listed but can still be deemed suitable for the intended application through other means, such as evaluation by a local authority or adherence to equivalent safety norms.

This flexibility allows for adaptability in selecting materials while ensuring that safety standards are upheld. It is essential for electrical installations, especially those exposed to the elements, to have the required characteristics that mitigate risks such as water ingress, corrosion, or electrical failure. Hence, the choice delineates the need for compliance without restricting options to a singular type of certification.