Snap in bushing... code compliant?

[mdshunk]

A reply to another thread got me wondering about this question. Often for range hoods and 2' fluorescent strip lights over the door inside of clothes closets, the romex is just left to hang out of the wall instead of being in a box. This, it would seem, requires a romex connector on the wire where it goes into the fluorescent fixture or range hood knockout. This requires the installer to knock a hole in the drywall big enough for the connector to go back into the wall so that the fixture/hood will go back tight.

The question is, if the romex is stapled to a stud within 8 or 10 inches from where it comes through the drywall, is a snap-in insulating bushing acceptable to use in this instance instead of a romex connector? I happen to do it this way, but I'm not sure I could prove that it is a compliant installation. This keeps me from knocking a hole in the drywall and making a mess, and it is also much faster. In my mind, this is no different than a romex going through a hole in a plastic device box, where the device box has no provisions to hold the cable other than the nearby staple in the stud. I know these snap-in insulating bushings are a regular stock item at my local supply houses, so they must be acceptable for something.

I hope nobody thinks that I'm trying to cut corners. I'd just like to be compliant and fast. I think this is smart thinking if compliant and fast can be married.

[Speedy Petey]

The code you refrenced is only for single gang plastic boxes. The cable must be secured within 8" but needs no connector in this instance.

Why not use a flush plastic NM connector. Like these:
http://www.aifittings.com/images/c9nm94i.jpg

[Wgoodrich]

Great picture right on the money. Again a picture is worth a thousand words.

The difference between a bushing [no clampind device] and the romex connector [with clamping device] is the difference if meeting code and not meeting Code.

Like Speedy Pete said, the romex must be secured to the box. Only exception is a nonmetallic device box with cable secured within 8" of the box. The two items you mentioned does not meet the definition of the nonmetallic device box. However Speedy Pete gave you the answer to proper installation. The Romex connector clamps the cable to the light or exhaust fan as required per NEC rules. The bushing does not.

Love seeing those pictures in many occasions !

Wg

[mdshunk]

What are plain snap-in bushings to be used for then? I understand now that I must use something with provisions to retain the cable, but I'm wondering how I'd ever find a compliant use for ordinary snap-in bushings.

[Wgoodrich]

If you have a panel with dividing walls all in one box then the bushings may be used as being in the same box. This is often done with an integrated wiring system such as a motor contol center with many contactors or starter sets in one box with dividers.

Also may find boxes with dividers in a single box where high voltage and control low voltage wiring is contained in the same box.

Just an idea or two

Wg

[Unregistered]

I often use the plastic snap in bushings to get through the top plate of a metal stud wall when fishing NM or low voltage. I also use them between the 4sq, mounted to A/C air handler unit for disconnect switch, and the wiring compartment of the unit. They are quick and cheap.