Ecmweb 8007 Wwh1 20 16large
Ecmweb 8007 Wwh1 20 16large
Ecmweb 8007 Wwh1 20 16large
Ecmweb 8007 Wwh1 20 16large
Ecmweb 8007 Wwh1 20 16large

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Are Those the Jaws of a Concrete Alien?

Jan. 21, 2016
Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

How well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn't identify? Here's your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else's work from the safety of your living room or office. It's your turn to identify the violation.

Hint: Are those the jaws of a concrete alien?

Find the Answer

Here’s another classic example of work space encroachment.

As you can see in the photo, there is a huge obstruction hanging over the top of this panel. The wire mesh is bent/damaged, and the plaster or cement material is broken and falling apart. This damaged obstruction puts electricians in peril when they need to work in this panel. Imagine having debris falling on your head while you were working inside this piece of equipment. That’s a scary thought to say the least. Even just taking the cover off the panel could be difficult due to the lack of clearances around it.

Section 110.26(A) requires clear working space in front of this panelboard. The space must be at least 3 ft deep, 30 in. wide, and 6½ ft high — or the height of the equipment if the equipment is higher than 6 ½ ft. The electrical equipment below the panelboard would not be considered a violation of work space provided that the encroachment is not more than 6 in. in accordance with Sec. 110.26(A)(3).

About the Author

Russ LeBlanc | Owner

Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.

Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.

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