Type MC Cable in Patient Care Areas - NEC 517

It is my opinion that Type MC cable must be specifically listed for this application, as all MC cable does not meet the requirements below:

Article 517 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) states that "(NEC 517) Part II applies to patient care space of all health care facilities.” This has long been the rule for medical facilities, doctors’ offices and such, for those parts of the building where patient care is provided.


NEC 517.13(A) requires that “the metal raceway system, or metallic cable armor, or sheath assembly shall itself qualify as an equipment grounding conductor in accordance with 250.118.” This is in addition to the required “Insulated Equipment Grounding Conductor” (NEC 517.13(B)).

raider1

Senior Member
Staff member

MC Cable used in a patient care area of a health care facility must meet the requirements of 517.13(A) and (B).

HCF MCAP meets the requirements of 517.13(A) and (B)

Under the UL Product Category PJAZ for Metal-Clad cable the Guide information says in part;

Cable with interlocked armor that has been determined to be suitable for use as a grounding means has interlocked aluminum or steel armor in direct contact with a single, full-sized, bare aluminum grounding/bonding conductor. This cable is marked to indicate that the armor/grounding conductor combination is suitable for ground. The equipment grounding conductor required within all other cable with interlocked armor may be insulated or bare, may be sectioned, and is located in the cable core but not in contact with the armor. Any additional grounding conductors of either design have green insulation.

Cable with an interlocked armor that is intended as a ground path is marked "armor is grounding path component," and is provided with installation instructions.