314.25 Covers and Canopies.

The correct screws must be used to attach the cover or other equipment to the box.
Click to Enlarge
The correct screws must be used to attach the cover or other equipment to the box.

Code Change Summary: New text was added to make it clear that the correct screws must be used to secure covers and equipment to a box.

All too often, incorrect screws are used to secure equipment or a box cover to a box. Most often it is the result of a poor box installation. If a box is installed correctly with the proper depth to account for the thickness of the sheetrock, then the screws that come with the equipment or cover will fit perfectly.

Now, the 2014 NEC® has code language to support this principle. “Screws used for the purpose of attaching covers, or other equipment, to the box shall be either machine screws matching the thread gauge or size that is integral to the box or shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions”.

Below is a preview of the NEC®.  See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on the “free access” tab and select the applicable year of NFPA 70 (National Electrical code).

2011 Code language:

314.25 Covers and Canopies. In completed installations, each box shall have a cover, faceplate, lampholder, or luminaire canopy, except where the installation complies with 410.24(B).

2014 Code Language:

314.25 Covers and Canopies. In completed installations, each box shall have a cover, faceplate, lampholder, or luminaire canopy, except where the installation complies with 410.24(B). Screws used for the purpose of attaching covers, or other equipment, to the box shall be either machine screws matching the thread gauge or size that is integral to the box or shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Did You Like This? Let Us Know With A Like! Thanks!

314.25 Covers and Canopies.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Which of the following is permitted to be used to secure a cover to a box?

A: Sheetrock screws.
B: A machine screw matching the box threads.
C: Any machine screw.
D: Red heads.
Please register or sign in for electrical continuing education courses.

If you were already signed in, your session probably expired, please sign back in.