Ecmweb 5434 3 6 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5434 3 6 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5434 3 6 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5434 3 6 13wwhweb
Ecmweb 5434 3 6 13wwhweb

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: The Cable Guy

March 7, 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 strikes again.

Find the Answer

There are many problems with this installation. First, let's start with the lack of a cover being installed on the panel. This violates 408.38, which requires panelboards mounted in cabinets or enclosures to be dead-front. We could also say this violates 110.18 since arcs or sparks are produced by overcurrent devices in their normal operation, and the lack of a cover would allow sparks to easily escape the panel. The exposed energized bus bars also create an extremely dangerous situation for an unqualified worker. The surge arrester sitting at the bottom right of the panel is a violation of Sections 285.5 and 110.3(B). The listing requirements and instructions do not permit the SPD to be left floating around inside the panel. It needs to be properly secured using its threaded neck and a locknut. In violation of 820.21, the accumulation of coaxial cables in front of the panel denies access to the electrical equipment. Perhaps this is why the cover was left off of the panel. This accumulation of cables also violates 110.26, which requires access and work space to be "provided and maintained" in order to allow safe operation and maintenance of the electrical equipment.

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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