How is everyone looking at this subject; Type NM Cable 334.15(a) through (C): situation is new garage addition, walls are open Stud(no wall covering) type NM Cable exposed horizontal and vertical runs, is it protected from physical damage if 1 1/4 inches maintained from edge of studs or is further protection required

Paul -

In my opinion further protection is required, you ever seen a rake, shovel or framing square hung from said cable!? I sure have.

Bridgeport Fittings offers UL listed cat. no. 733-PS steel protector strip intended for use in this type of application. Can be seen at www.bptfittings.com/Catalog/CatalogFamily.aspx?CategoryId=23&FamilyId=510&ShowReturn=true.

(Disclosure: I am the Engineering Manager at Bridgeport Fittings)

I agree with Rob must be protected up to 8' AFF.
I have accepted peg board, plywood,carflex connected to the plastic box.

IMHO
Neal Burdick

I agree, protection is a must. The cables need to be sleeved in a raceway or covered with a method like that indicated by Ken.

I tend to agree,I just haven't found anything specific other than 334.15

Much as we are seeing in Nick's GEC thread, "being subject to physical damage" is largely left to the eye of the beholder (AHJ) and NFPA is reticent to define it.

It is possible to route Romex in framing so that it is not subject to damage but not very likely. An 8 ft. level would be enforcible for open runs in areas subject to storage, etc. Guards might be acceptable to the AHJ but cable routed horizontally between studs is 1.poor workmanship 2.difficult to insulate behind 3.even in conduit in open studs one might require guards...I get pretty rough in my garage, especially when I can't find that 'certain' tool...