Improperly secured covers on outdoor cable trays can cause a serious hazard in harsh environment conditions such as wind, snow, and ice. Recognize electrical cable tray misuse that can lead to electric shock and arc-flash/blast events and fires caused by overheating. Customers with experience with “raceways” tend to lean towards requiring. NEC Article 392 explains cable trays, their components, appropriate wiring methods for cable trays, and instances where they are and are not permitted for use. It also focuses on construction and installation practices for cable trays. Decisions taken in design to save space could backfire in maintenance. 305(a)(3) and within various provisions of the National Electric Code (NEC). When properly planned, installed, and serviced, cable trays provide safe routing of power, low voltage control, data, and telecommunications. However, if cable tray is not properly designed to be compatible with its application and environment, electrical system failures can occur. Our Cable Tray Design Considerations Guide.