ECN Forum
Posted By: steve66 Panelboards in clothes closet - 03/14/03 04:26 PM
Can a panelboard be placed in a clothes closet? I know 240.24D says overcurrent devices cannot be located in the vicinity of easily ignitible material, such as clothes closets. But, there isn't any similar restriction in article 408 - Switchboards and Panelboards. Is it possible 240.24 doesn't apply since the panelboard would contain any sparks or flames created by a breaker?
Posted By: boxford Re: Panelboards in clothes closet - 03/14/03 05:57 PM
Steve,

You have answered your own question. Article 408.2 states the following:

408.2 Other Articles. Switches, circuit breakers, and over-current devices used on switchboards, panelboards, and distribution boards, and their enclosures, shall comply with this article and also with the requirements of Articles 240, 250, 312, 314, 404, and other articles that apply. Switchboards and panelboards in hazardous (classified) locations shall comply with the requirements of Articles 500 through 517.

So, the panelboard cannot be located in the clothes closet because of Article 240.24(D).

Brian
Posted By: steve66 Re: Panelboards in clothes closet - 03/14/03 06:42 PM
Yes, that does seem to make it pretty clear.
Thanks.
Posted By: steve66 Re: Panelboards in clothes closet - 03/17/03 11:46 PM
Well, I thought that was a closed topic. Then I ran across Article 240.30A, "Protection from physical damage". This states overcurrent devices shall be protected from damage by:
1) installation in an enclosure, ect.
2) installation on an open type switchboard, ect. free from easily ignitible material.

(I've taken the liberty to shorten the exact text some.) My point is, installation in enclosures doesn't say anything about the area around the enclosure being free from ignitible material. In addition, the handbook says "overcurrent devices enclosed in cabinets or cutout boxes ensure that hot metal particles will not be ejected in the vicinity of combustible material".

So, I'm still wondering, can a panelboard go in a closet, or not?
Posted By: George Re: Panelboards in clothes closet - 03/18/03 12:55 AM
steve66 ---

I don't think anyone could argue this issue is rationally based.

Most breaker boxes here are in garages. Think 40gal of explosive liquids.

and a lot of clothes closets are small rooms with the clothes in cupboards.

I think the intent is good. I just don't understand the implementation from time to time.
© ECN Electrical Forums