Last note on this, I write to NFPA on this and got a most interesting response from Mark Cloutier as follows:

This is in reply to your email concerning the National Electrical Code® 2008. The NFPA electrical staff cannot approve a particular design or arrangement, however I can provide some general remarks.



Section 400.7 (A) specifies the permitted uses for cords. Where using flexible cord for any of the permitted uses in 400.7(A), the restrictions in 400.8 also have to be followed. Flexible cords and cables are required to be used in accordance with Table 400.4, which identifies the permitted uses for the cord types covered by the NEC®. Section 400.8 (5) prohibits flexible cords (such as the 120V power cord from the condensation pump to the receptacle outlet) from being located above suspended or dropped ceilings. Similarly, 400.8 (2) prohibits flexible cords (such as the 120V power cord from the security camera to the receptacle outlet) from being run through holes in suspended or dropped ceilings. However, the NEC® does not prohibit receptacle outlets from being installed above suspended ceilings for use during maintenance of equipment located above such ceilings.





Mark Cloutier

NFPA Senior Electrical Engineer