What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Vineyard Violation

Sept. 8, 2016

NEC rules on work space violations

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.

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Hint: A vineyard violation

Find the Answer

I spotted this work space violation while my wife and I were enjoying a day trip to a winery and vineyard. The shop owners obviously don’t know that the space in front of this panelboard needs to be kept clear so that people can reach the circuit breakers in an emergency, and electricians can work safely around it. While the wine may be delicious, it should not be stored in front of this panelboard.

Section 110.26(B) clearly and concisely states that this space shall not be used for storage. The depth in front of this panelboard should be clear for at least 3 ft, as specified in Table 110.26(A). Section 110.26(A)(2) requires a width of at least 30 in. to be kept clear, and Sec. 110.26(A)(3) requires this space to be clear for a height of at least 6½ ft.

Imagine yourself trying to work in this panelboard with this wine rack in your work space. Now imagine how dangerous it would be trying to troubleshoot or take voltage readings in this panelboard while it was energized! It would be extra dangerous with these obstacles in your way.

Section 240.24(A) also requires overcurrent devices, such as circuit breakers, to be readily accessible, which is definitely not the case here.

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.