Just installed an attic ladder. I've read this: What is the proper 'per code' method for running nonmetallic sheathed cable above a ceiling in the attic?
So my attic is now "accessible" and thus:
(A) Where Run Across the Top of Floor Joists. Where run across the top
of floor joists, or within 2.1 m (7 ft) of floor or floor joists
across the face of rafters or studding, in attics and roof spaces that
are accessible, the cable shall be protected by substantial guard
strips that are at least as high as the cable.
I find this rather strange. Most of my attic would require a small child in order to access and even then he/she would be on their hands and knees; and some places are downright inaccessible due to supporting 2×4's .etc. Does this essentially mean that any cable run across the joists needs a guard strip? I find that rather crazy – I can understand in the heavily trafficked areas where storage will be.
Best Answer
I would say no.
The rule is likely for attics that can be readily accessed. For instance, some houses have an access door (think closet door) in the top level of the house that leads into the attic. If someone can just open a door and go in, it's accessible (but it's probably also decked, lest someone open it and fall downstairs).
I bought a brand new house not long ago and there was an attic access panel in the ceiling of the garage (the HVAC unit was up there so it would be silly to have it sealed). None of the wires in the attic were protected because it was still difficult to get up there. Even after adding attic stairs, it wasn't something that you could "just go into". I doubt they could have passed inspections if code had meant "cannot be accessed by anyone", which would probably be a code violation in most areas.