Ecmweb 8638 Nec Whats Wrong Here Nov 1116 Pr
Ecmweb 8638 Nec Whats Wrong Here Nov 1116 Pr
Ecmweb 8638 Nec Whats Wrong Here Nov 1116 Pr
Ecmweb 8638 Nec Whats Wrong Here Nov 1116 Pr
Ecmweb 8638 Nec Whats Wrong Here Nov 1116 Pr

What's Wrong Here? Hint: Loser by a technical knockout (TKO)

Nov. 18, 2016
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. Can you identify the specific Code violation(s) in this photo? Note: Submitted comments must include specific references from the 2014 NEC.

Hint: Loser by a technical knockout (TKO)

September Winners

I received a lot of responses on this photo. Thank you to all who participated. Our winners this month include: Brad Whitfield, an electrical worker in Suffolk, Va.; Daniel Meadows, president of Meadows Electrical Contractors in Decatur, Ga.; and Ed Eisenhauer, a safety specialist for Milwaukee VAMC in Milwaukee, Wis. Each of them was able to correctly identify the foreign pipes intruding into the dedicated space above the panelboard along with some other problems.

Section 110.26(E)(1) spells out the requirements for the “dedicated space” needed for indoor switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, and motor control centers. The space directly above this panelboard is reserved for the electrical installation, and no other foreign systems can be located in it. This dedicated space extends up to the structural ceiling or 6 ft above the panelboard — whichever is lower.

Another violation I can point out involves the metal cables secured with cable ties to the EMT above the panel. This is a violation of the general requirements found in Sec. 300.11(B).

Lastly, the gaping hole in the sheetrock above the panelboard needs to be properly firestopped using approved methods in accordance with Sec. 300.21. I’m guessing this hole may have been made by the person snaking in those metal cables.

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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