NEC 314.22 Exception allows a surface extension from an outlet box cover to be made using which material?

• A. Flexible conduit or cable
• B. Rigid conduit
• C. PVC conduit
• D. Plastic tubing

Answer: (A)

When wiring a surface extension from an outlet box cover, the NEC 314.22 Exception allows using flexible conduit or flexible cable. The idea is to provide a practical, surface-mounted path for conductors without forcing a rigid, wall-embedded run. Flexible conduit and flexible cables can bend and contour along the surface, be easily secured to the wall, and still protect the conductors right up to the device. Rigid conduit or PVC conduit are much less suitable for a short, surface-run because their stiffness makes it harder to route neatly on a wall and to terminate at a box cover. Plastic tubing isn’t recognized as the appropriate wiring method in this specific exception either. So, the option that fits the exception is flexible conduit or cable because it offers the necessary flexibility and protection for a surface extension.