Water Exclusion Tests

Water exclusion testing for carpet and tile applications is performed with the device in the closed position (nothing is plugged in, and no wires or cables exit the device). In both tests, a mixture of soap and water is used. According to the standard, “Scrub water shall not enter a floor box at the floor level through the box cover, cover flange, or other openings.” [Note: the term “floor box” includes poke-thru devices.]

The test set-up is described in 32A.2.2:

“A floor box assembly is to be installed in a section of floor constructed to represent an installation as intended by the manufacturer. The cover plate is to be fully secured. Sealing compound is to be used around the perimeter of the floor box or cover flange to retain the soap solution on the floor assembly. A minimum 1/4-inch (6.3 mm) high dam is to be constructed around the floor assembly.”

The test for tile applications is described in 32A.2.3:

“A scrub water solution is to be prepared by mixing 4 tablespoons of floor cleaning soap with 1.0 gallon (3.79L) of water. The solution is to be poured over the cover plate of the floor box so that it collects to a depth of 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) above the floor assembly within 10 seconds or less. The solution is to remain on the floor assembly for one minute. The solution is then removed and the interior and under the cover of the floor box is to be examined for entrance of scrub water.”

The test for carpet applications is described in 32A.2.4:

“A scrub water solution is to be prepared by mixing one tablespoon of floor cleaning soap with 1.0 quart (0.94 L) of water. The solution is to be poured over the cover plate of the floor box within 10 seconds or less. The solution is to run off the top and sides of the cover. The cover is then to be dried. The interior and under the cover of the floor box is to be examined for entrance of scrub water.”

Performing a scrub water exclusion test on a floor box cover.