Electrical Panel behind door when door is open

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l3city

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Guys...simple and (probably) a very repetitive question. Will a panel be installed per NEC if not meeting clearances when opening the door? (i.e. panel is blocked when the room's door is open)
Thanks for your time..regards:smile:
 
IMO, this is one of the best locations for a panel, it keeps the required clearances clear of piled up junk.

One potential problem could be if someone locked or jambed the door closed while they were working in the panel and was hurt, then any rescue assistance would have to get by this.

Roger
 
AES1005 said:
My 2 cents would be even if the NEC has no issue's, why install a panel in such a place? Choose another wall.
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Why? Because it will remain free from obstructions, most of the time. I think it's possibly the best wall. I have been known to install punchdown blocks above dropped ceilings purposely right above doorways, because no office furniture will be set there, so there will always be a place to erect a ladder.
 
roger said:
IMO, this is one of the best locations for a panel, it keeps the required clearances clear of piled up junk.
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I agree and do this often.

roger said:
One potential problem could be if someone locked or jambed the door closed while they were working in the panel and was hurt, then any rescue assistance would have to get by this.

Roger
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I never gave this any thought as those guys rip apart cars in a hurry.
 
abe72487 said:
Check local AHJ My AHJ does allow any door to open over a panel local ordinance.
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Do you know why this is a local ordinance?

Roger
 
mdshunk said:
Why? Because it will remain free from obstructions, most of the time. I think it's possibly the best wall. I have been known to install punchdown blocks above dropped ceilings purposely right above doorways, because no office furniture will be set there, so there will always be a place to erect a ladder.
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Quite common around here. Very logical. Makes trouble-shooting a lot easier when you get to the job and the work area is clear. :smile:
 
rcarroll said:
My AHJ doesn't allow panels behind doors either. He feels it's more of a hazard if someone working on the panel gets shoved into it by somebody opening the door.
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If I were working on this panel I would either lock the door or chock it, I would think the AHJ would have a better reason.

Roger
 
rcarroll said:
My AHJ doesn't allow panels behind doors either. He feels it's more of a hazard if someone working on the panel gets shoved into it by somebody opening the door.
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Is this a written amendment or just a from the cuff call on the inspectors part ?
I try to locate the panel behind the door in most cases. It has never been an issue personally I don't want to look at the panel every day , and if you are working in the panel it should be de-energized and not a hazard :roll:
 
rcarroll said:
My AHJ doesn't allow panels behind doors either. He feels it's more of a hazard if someone working on the panel gets shoved into it by somebody opening the door.
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How can he NOT allow it? Where is it in the code that prohibits it? As long as it meets 110.26 and other pertinent code provisions...why not? :smile:
 
Yes, I know there is no code violation. Yes, the AHJ has it in writing. It's just a pet peeve of his, I guess. I don't like to enforce it, but, I have no choice if all the inspectors in my office are to be on the same page.
 
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