22.5' Clearance for overhead service conductors near swimming pools

[CEBen]

Does anyone know how the 22.5' rule for clearance of service conductors over a swimming pool was arrived at?

 

[jtester]

It is consistent with the NESC. The NESC Handbook is a good source of background relating to Code development.

It says that clearances were modified in the 1977 edition. They are based on clearances needed for the use of a pool skimmer with a 16' handle, and were the result of a number of contact accidents involving skimmers and overhead lines.

Hope that helps.

Jim T

 

[iwire]

They are based on clearances needed for the use of a pool skimmer with a 16' handle, and were the result of a number of contact accidents involving skimmers and overhead lines.

Yes Jim, it helps me. :smile:

I had never considered the metal handled pool cleaning tools.

 

[stickboy1375]

. They are based on clearances needed for the use of a pool skimmer with a 16' handle,

Holy crap! how deep are these pools getting? :grin:

 

[radiopet]

The bad part is while we have the clearances within the NEC, They technically can't be enforced by the AHJ. The NESC is outside of the NEC's scope and the utility governs this.

of course if the line is already there and someone is installing a pool then of course he NEC will take over in the clearance.

Basically I just wish I had a pool....

 

[iwire]

The bad part is while we have the clearances within the NEC, They technically can't be enforced by the AHJ. The NESC is outside of the NEC's scope and the utility governs this.

of course if the line is already there and someone is installing a pool then of course he NEC will take over in the clearance.

I agree, it is strange situation.

But if the utility in that area is required to follow the NESC there should be a way to force the utility to maintain the clearances.