Hint: Obstacle course
Unfortunately, I have seen way too many electrical rooms that look similar to this one. Like so many others, it’s being used as a storage room for cleaning supplies, paint, lamps, plumbing equipment, door hardware, and a cornucopia of other items that should not be here. Section 110.26(B) clearly states the working space for these panelboards shall not be used for storage. How is an electrician supposed to work safely on this energized equipment with all this junk in the way? It creates a real safety concern that needs to be addressed. According to the requirements in Sec. 110.26(A), the working space in front of the panelboards must be kept clear for a minimum depth of 3 ft, minimum width of 30 in., and minimum height of 6 ½ ft. Many of the items stored here are combustible or easily ignitable. Section 240.24(D) prohibits overcurrent devices from being located in the vicinity of easily ignitable materials.
