In commercial garages, Type PVC conduit, Type RTRC conduit, and Type HDPE conduit are permitted where buried under what minimum depth of cover?

In commercial garages, the use of Type PVC conduit, Type RTRC conduit, and Type HDPE conduit is subject to specific requirements concerning their burial depth to ensure safety and durability. The correct answer, which indicates a minimum burial depth of 2 feet, is grounded in established NEC standards that aim to protect these conduits from damage and external influences, such as vehicular traffic and soil conditions.

When conduits are buried, they are exposed to stresses that can arise from above, including load from vehicles and environmental factors. The requirement for a minimum depth of 2 feet is essential to ensure that the conduits are adequately protected against such risks. This depth minimizes the likelihood of any accidental damage or interference from external activities, which could compromise the integrity of the electrical system.

Other depths, while they might seem reasonable, do not align with the NEC specifications for ensuring the safety and longevity of electrical installations in such settings. For instance, a depth of 1 foot may not provide sufficient protection against potential impacts. Similarly, 3 feet or 4 feet could be excessive for typical applications in commercial garages, leading to unnecessary additional costs without providing enhanced safety benefits over the established 2-foot depth.