Ecmweb 13305 4 20 17wwhlarge
Ecmweb 13305 4 20 17wwhlarge
Ecmweb 13305 4 20 17wwhlarge
Ecmweb 13305 4 20 17wwhlarge
Ecmweb 13305 4 20 17wwhlarge

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Shelf Placement

April 20, 2017
Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

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: Shelf placement

Find the Answer

Ben Sanford, journeyman electrician, spotted this when he was ordering some take-out food in Cincinnati. He knew right away that there was a problem with the placement of this shelf and these pizza boxes.

How are we supposed to gain access to the panelboards and the circuit breakers? We would first have to move all of the supplies out of the way. Then, remove the metal shelf mounted to the wall. Finally, sit on the table to do our work or pull the table out of the way too!

This is an obvious violation of the clear working space requirements found in Sec. 110.26(B). At least 3 ft of depth, 30 in. of width, and 6½ ft of height is required to be kept clear in front of these panelboards.

In addition, Sec. 240.24(A) requires circuit breakers to be readily accessible. With the shelving and all of the boxes in the way, the circuit breakers are not considered readily accessible.

With all of that cardboard stacked in front of the panels, I suppose we could also point to a violation of Sec. 240.24(D), since overcurrent devices are not supposed to be located near easily ignitable material. Take-out anyone?

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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