Protection for cable in concealed installations (see Appendices B and G)
1) Where the cable is run through studs, joists, or similar members, the outer surfaces of the cable shall be kept a distance of at least 32 mm from the edges of the members, or the cable shall be protected from mechanical damage by
a) a protector plate covering the width of the member; or
b) a cylindrical bushing sized for the hole through the member, and extending a minimum of 13 mm beyond both sides of the member.
2) Where the cable is run along studs, joists, or similar members, the cable shall be
a) kept a minimum of 32 mm from the edges of the members that can be covered by drywall or a similar material; or
b) protected from mechanical damage by corrosion-resistant ferrous metal not less than 1.3 mm thick, securely fastened in place, extending beyond the face of the member in such a manner that it will cover the width of the cable or group of cables.
3) Where the cable is run through metal studs, or along metal joists, sheathing, or cladding, it shall be
a) located so as to be effectively protected from mechanical damage both during and after installation; and
b) protected where it passes through a member by an insert adequately secured in place.
4) Where the cable is installed immediately behind a baseboard, it shall be effectively protected from
mechanical damage from driven nails.
Source: Rule 12-516, 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
