Change Summary

• Screws for covers or attaching equipment to boxes shall be compatible and have matching machine threads or be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Drywall screws and other screws are not permitted to be used with boxes unless otherwise listed for use with those types.
• A new last sentence has been added to 314.25

Expert Analysis

This section requires that each box have a cover, faceplate, lampholder, or luminaire canopy, except where the installation complies with 410.24(B). A new second sentence specifies that screws used for attaching covers, or other equipment to the box, shall be either machine screws matching the thread gauge or size integral to the box or be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Use of drywall screws and other screws that are not intended for fastening luminaires or other equipment to boxes is not acceptable and can result in damage to the box and inadequate support of the equipment. Manufacturer’s installation instructions cover this in most cases for listed boxes and equipment, but having the additional text will help clarify this requirement. Code Making Panel-9 incorporated the concepts into the additional sentence but also accounted for nonmetallic outlet boxes and product standards that allow the use of thread forming screws for the attachment of covers provided they meet the performance requirements cited in the applicable standard. This type of screw is typically used with nonmetallic junction boxes and provided with the box. The revision clarifies that drywall screws and other inappropriate screws are not permitted for use with boxes unless otherwise listed for that use.