Ecmweb 7803 Codewatch108
Ecmweb 7803 Codewatch108
Ecmweb 7803 Codewatch108
Ecmweb 7803 Codewatch108
Ecmweb 7803 Codewatch108

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Crowded House

Sept. 8, 2015
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: A Crowded House

Find the Answer

Well, unfortunately we can’t blame the plumbers for this infraction. We can only blame the electrician for installing this transformer directly in the way of this panelboard. Not only did he make it more difficult for him to work in this panelboard, but he also created a Code violation by locating it here.

Access and working space for electrical equipment must be provided in accordance with Sec. 110.26. Working space for this 480V panelboard must be maintained in accordance with  (A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3) of this section. The minimum working space depth in front of this panelboard is required to be 3 ft. The minimum width is required to be 30 in. This space must be clear and extend from the floor to a minimum height of 6 ½ ft. The only encroachment permitted in this space is with equipment associated with the panelboard, which is located above or below the panelboard. The transformer fits this description; however, the encroachment is only permitted to be 6 in. This transformer extends much more than that distance into the working space.

Reaching over this transformer while working in an energized panelboard will greatly increase the risk of an accident.

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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