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What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Cable Guy Versus Electrician

April 18, 2013
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: Cable guy versus electrician

Find the Answer

Well, it looks like the cable guy won this fight. He took over all of the working space needed for the electrical panel. Thus, the electrician ends up as the loser in this battle. But it might not be the cable guy's fault, since Sec.90.3 of the 2011 NEC tells us that Chapter 8 (Communication Systems) are not subject to the requirements of Chapters 1 through 7, unless specifically referenced in Chapter 8. Nowhere in Chapter 8 will you find any reference to the clear working space requirements outlined in 110.26.

Despite that lack of reference, this is still a violation of 110.26(A).The working space in front of this panel is required to have a depth of at least 3 ft, a width of at least 30 in. and the ability to open hinged covers at least 90°. In addition, the working space shall be clear from the floor and extend to a height of 6 ½ ft or the height of the equipment if it is higher than that. An encroachment of 6 in. is permitted into the working space above or below the panel if the equipment is associated with the electrical panel. In this installation, the CATV installer has placed his cables directly in front of the panel and his CATV box directly below the circuit breaker panel. While this may not violate any sections of Art. 820 it certainly violates the requirements of 110.26.

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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