Understanding panelboards and their installation is critical for a safe installation. Panelboards contain the overcurrent protective devices that protect branch circuits. Randy Barnett divides the instruction into five separate sections:
- General information and definitions of panelboards and their enclosures
- Marking and labelling requirements
- The Circuit Directory
- The panelboard itself
- Installation notes and requirements for panelboards
The information covered all begins with Article 408 Switchboards, Switchgear and Panelboards. While this article drives many specific requirements for panelboards, installers must also refer to Art. 210 Branch Circuits, Art. 240 for multiwire branch circuits, and Art. 250 for grounding and bonding requirements. Article 110 provides specific requirements for termination torque, working spaces about panelboards and what is meant by performing work in a “professional and skillful manner.”
All of the above are addressed in this Tech Talk presentation. Grab and notepad and prepare to jot down the many code references on the screen as they will be valuable for meeting panelboard installation requirements.
About the Author
Randy Barnett
CESCP
Randy Barnett is an NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Professional, a long-time journeyman electrician, instructor and author with expertise in industrial electrical construction and maintenance. He is Electrical Codes & Safety Manager for NTT Training. Because of his ability to develop and deliver quality programs, Randy has trained more than 10,000 students in all 50 states, including Canada, Singapore, Afghanistan, Dubai, Trinidad, and Saudi Arabi. His articles appear in numerous trade publications and, his book on "Commercial and Industrial Wiring" is used as an entry-level text in many electrician training programs. Randy also appears at various corporate and trade association speaking engagements and consults on training program design and implementation. Randy is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power School, served as a nuclear electrician in submarines and holds a B.S. in business.