William,

You may well find inspectors and others who will agree with you on this. I
remain firmly unconvinced. Yes, the code may be taken literally. . . . .and
also, sometimes, be taken out of context. I believe you are doing that here. It
is impossible to use words in such an airtight manner that they cannot be
misinterpreted. The NEC is riddled with wording that often serves mostly to
"muddy the waters". 

I truly respect your desire and record of doing things safely and professionally
to the highest standards, or if you deem those standards inadequate, to improve
on them yourself.
As regards our discussion here, I respectfully suggest you speak with the
electrical inspector or AHJ, before you bid, so you don't include line items
that may not be required. Then you may decide if you wish to include them in
your bid anyhow. Or not.

Thanks for your sincere concern that things be done well. 
I've got to get back to work.

Dick


--- You wrote:
 My goal is to interpret the code such that my designs 
are unassailable by building officials.  I don't want unpleasant surprises 
after I have signed a contract and begun work for a fixed price.
--- end of quote ---

