Can you use PVC electrical conduit in a commericial building?

Answer 1

I know of no restrictions on using PVC conduit in commercial buildings. If it is subject to damage, meaning if it is exposed to moving machinery, forklifts, people, etc., you must use schedule 80 PVC. "Normal" PVC is schedule 40.

PVC is easy to shatter, which would expose people to danger. EMT or rigid conduit would withstand damage much easier and wouldn't shatter in whatever event may happen. PVC is extremely difficult to customize to make it go where you want it to go and at the same time make it look nice. This in itself may be a code violation as the code requires electrical installations to be done in a "neat and workman-like manner."

Answer 2

Answer for USA, Canada and countries running a 60 Hz supply service.

Cable tray, MC cable, and gutters are examples of non-conduit wireways used in commercial buildings.

There are no installations, commercial or industrial, that allow conductors to be installed in such a way as to be able to reach out and touch them. Such a situation would expose the conductors to possible physical damage and this is not allowed.

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As always, if you are in doubt about what to do, the best advice anyone should give you is to call a licensed electrician to advise what work is needed.

Before you do any work yourself,

on electrical circuits, equipment or appliances,

always use a test meter to ensure the circuit is, in fact, de-energized.

IF YOU ARE NOT ALREADY SURE YOU CAN DO THIS JOB

SAFELY AND COMPETENTLY

REFER THIS WORK TO QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS.