Under which condition are conductors considered outside of a building?

Conductors are considered outside of a building specifically in the context of their service to utilities. When conductors are serving utility purposes, such as providing power from the utility company to a customer location, they are typically situated outside of the physical buildings. This includes conductors that run along utility poles, in underground conduits, or otherwise outside the structural boundaries of a building.

This determination is crucial for complying with various codes and safety standards, as the rules governing the use and installation of these conductors vary significantly based on whether they are classified as inside or outside the building. The conductors serving utilities have specific requirements for their installation, grounding, and safety measures that protect both the equipment and individuals.

In contrast, conductors installed in any raceway, in use for temporary service, or simply insulated do not inherently classify them as outside of a building. The location, function, and purpose of the conductors dictate their categorization more than their physical characteristics. Thus, only those conductors serving utility applications are recognized as being outside of a building, which aligns with the understanding of their role in the electrical distribution network.