National Electrical Code

Code Q&A

Dec. 8, 2005

How far away must a 120/208V, 3-phase panelboard be located from a janitorial closet sink?

Q. How far away must a 120/208V, 3-phase panelboard be located from a janitorial closet sink?

A. You may install the panelboard as close as you like to a janitorial sink; however, a minimum of 36 in. deep by 30 in. wide of clear working space is required in front of the panelboard [110.26(A)].

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.