Hint: standing room only
See the answer below.
This installation looks like there was some bad planning or a lack of communication between the trades. Was the electrician there first? Was the plumber there first? I’m not sure of the timing between those two trades, but in any case, we are left with a few Code violations to review.
The working space in front of these circuit breaker enclosures is really a tripping hazard now with the water pipes and water meters positioned exactly where an electrician would need to stand while working on this electrical equipment. Working space in front of this electrical equipment must be clear for a depth of 3 ft per Sec. 110.26(A)(1). A minimum width of at least 30 in. or the width of the equipment if wider than 30 in. is required, per Sec. 110.26(A)(2). This space must also be clear from the floor to a minimum height of 6½ ft or the height of the equipment if higher, per Sec. 110.26(A)(3). The water pipe coming through the wall directly below the electrical equipment is a violation of the dedicated space requirements of Sec. 110.26(E). No foreign systems are permitted in this space.
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.