Not according to 2008 NEC (NFPA 70). I refer you to 334.17, Through or Parallel
to Framing Members, which directs you to 300.4.
300.4(A)(1): "In both exposed and concealed locations, where a cable- or
raceway-type wiring method is installed through bored holes in joists, rafters,
or wood members [studs in residential structures are typically wood, yes?],
holes shall be bored so that the edge of the hole is not less than 32 mm (1-1/4
in.) from the nearest edge of the wood member. Where this distance cannot be
maintained,the cable or raceway shall be protected from penetration by screws or
nails by a steel plate(s) or bushing(s), at least 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) thick, and
of appropriate length and width installed to cover the area of the wiring."
Exception 1 states that guard plates shall not be required to protect RMC, IMC,
RNC [!!! [1]], or EMT.
Correct. 300.4(D). Same requirements as for holes: 1-1/4 in. from edge or
protected by 1/16 in. steel plate. Exception 1 allows the guard plate to be
omitted for RMC, IMC, RNC [!!! again [1]], and EMT.
334.30: No greater than 4-1/2 ft. and within 12 in. of every outlet box, J-box,
cabinet, or fitting.
Yep. Always practice safe wiring. And NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER use *GREEN* wire
nuts on *ANYTHING* but EGCs. Not even temporary wiring, no matter if it's 50 ft.
off the floor or not. (I know a *licensed master electrician* who does, just
because he ran out of yellows or reds and can't be bothered to go get more off
the truck that's 15 ft. way.)
Wrong. 300.4(D) and 334.30.
Correct. 334.30(B)(1).
Really,..
I have a state inspector friend I should have log in here., What he
tells me and shows me from the book and local codes, is totally
different what what I've seen here, when it comes to house residential
wiring and industrial installations.
I think he'd like showing you some code books. He also does adult
refresher courses and he tells me that it's hard to believe the number
of those that have been in the business for years having a miss
conception of what they think should be done..
He used to be part of the NEC group committee but since he has retired
from tech school teaching he has pulled out of that.
I'm glad I don't live in your state. Scary, your state inspector in regards to
wiring methods.
Have fun with your many wonders..
I'll get off this soap wagon now because I know where it's leading.
Too many bone headed people here..
I'll stick with the NEC and local codes for now.. Thank you very much..
Can't say about your local codes, but I *do* know what the 2008 NEC states,
because I have it in my lap as I type this, and quoted from it as I did above.