Wiring under raised floors for data processing and similar systems

1) Flexible cords or cables, and appliance wiring material with a jacket or overall covering to connect and interconnect data processing and similar systems, shall be permitted to be installed under raised floors, pass through an opening in the raised floor located directly below the equipment, and terminate at the equipment supplied, provided that

a) the raised floor is of non-combustible construction and, if of conductive material, is bonded to ground in accordance with Rules 10-700 to 10-708; and

b) the cords or cables terminate
i) in attachment plugs that have configurations in accordance with Diagram 2, or that are classified as industrial locking or latching-type special-use attachment plugs or connectors; or
ii) at a junction box or similar enclosure.

2) To connect and interconnect data processing and similar systems, portable power cable shall be permitted to be installed under raised floors, pass through an opening in the raised floor located directly below the equipment, and terminate at the equipment supplied, provided that

a) the cable contains a bonding conductor;
b) the connection between the portable power cable and other wiring methods is made in a junction box or similar enclosure, with a conductor termination that is suitable for the class of strand based on the conductor used; and

c) the cable is
i) part of the factory-supplied data processing or similar equipment; or
ii) of the type listed in Table 11.

3) The cords or cables installed in accordance with Subrule 1) or 2) shall

a) not exceed 4.5 m in length between cord or cable terminations;
b) be provided with a strain-relief connector where they enter a junction box or similar enclosure; and
c) be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with the data processing equipment.

4) Junction boxes installed in accordance with Subrule 1) or 2) shall be securely fastened in place and protected from mechanical damage.

5) Branch circuit conductors installed under raised floors to supply receptacles and junction boxes shall be installed in rigid conduit, electrical metallic tubing, flexible metal conduit, armoured cable, or metal-sheathed cable, including mineral-insulated cable other than the lightweight type.

Source: Rule 12-020, CSA C22.1:21, Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1 (25th Edition), Safety Standard for Electrical Installations. © 2021 Canadian Standards Association. Please visit store.csagroup.org