Will protection be required for conductors or equipment likely to be subject to objects falling through a ventilation grate?

Protection for conductors or equipment that may be subjected to falling objects, such as from a ventilation grate, is indeed required by the National Electrical Code (NEC). This is primarily to ensure safety and prevent damage to electrical systems. Falling debris can potentially result in short circuits, equipment failure, or even hazardous situations such as electric shock or fire.

The NEC emphasizes the importance of protecting electrical installations from physical damage, which includes the risk posed by equipment being exposed to falling objects. Therefore, appropriate measures such as enclosures, raceways, or other protective barriers must be employed when wiring is installed in locations where such risks are present.

Implementing these safeguards is a critical aspect of electrical safety standards, ensuring that systems maintain integrity and do not become hazardous due to environmental conditions. This requirement reflects a commitment to safeguarding both the infrastructure and the personnel who work with or around electrical systems.