Existing Panelboard in A Commercial Bathroom

[jeremy.zinkofsky]

Is a bathroom with only a sink and toilet truly considered a damp location? Have an existing panelboard that cannot be relocated. I know that the NEC does not prohibit a panelboard to be located in a "Non'Dwelling Unit" bathroom as long as dedicated clearance is maintained and it is locked to unqualified personnel. I am trying to determine whether or not I need to spec a gasketed panel cover or if I need to replace the entire panel enclosure. Any input or direct code reference would be greatly appreciated.

 

[charlie b]

Is a bathroom with only a sink and toilet truly considered a damp location?

I think not. The Article 100 definitions of "Location, Damp" and "Location, Dry" lead me to believe the bathroom is a "Location, Dry." The presence of a sink does not mean that water will be splashing all over the room. The water will remain in the sink, unless someone plugs the drain and leaves the water running. If that does happen, it will not cause the panel to get wet, as the water will run out of the doorway.

I know that the NEC does not prohibit a panelboard to be located in a "Non-Dwelling Unit" bathroom as long as dedicated clearance is maintained and it is locked to unqualified personnel.

Given that this is not a dwelling unit, then NEC 2140.24(E) does not prohibit the panel from being in the bathroom. I agree that 110.26 will require the working clearance to be maintained. However, I see nothing that would require denial of access to unqualified personnel. Are you suggesting that only electricians should be allowed to use that bathroom? :happyno:

 

[jeremy.zinkofsky]

Given that this is not a dwelling unit, then NEC 2140.24(E) does not prohibit the panel from being in the bathroom. I agree that 110.26 will require the working clearance to be maintained. However, I see nothing that would require denial of access to unqualified personnel. Are you suggesting that only electricians should be allowed to use that bathroom? :happyno:

What about 110.27(A)(1)?

 

[charlie b]

What about 110.27(A)(1)?

You don't have to get that far. While you are still reading 110.27(A), and before you get to sub paragraph (A)(1), we see that we can guard against accidental contact with live parts by using "approved enclosures." The panelboard is just such an approved enclosure. So we don't need to look at "any of the following means," including the room that is only accessible to qualified persons.

 

[jeremy.zinkofsky]

You don't have to get that far. While you are still reading 110.27(A), and before you get to sub paragraph (A)(1), we see that we can guard against accidental contact with live parts by using "approved enclosures." The panelboard is just such an approved enclosure. So we don't need to look at "any of the following means," including the room that is only accessible to qualified persons.

Ok, thanks

 

[kwired]

Are you suggesting that only electricians should be allowed to use that bathroom? :happyno:

sometimes that would be nice

 

[Carultch]

However, I see nothing that would require denial of access to unqualified personnel. Are you suggesting that only electricians should be allowed to use that bathroom? :happyno:

It's not about denying access to unqualified personnel, it's about the presence of a user in the bathroom with the door locked, restricting access to the electrician who might need to use the panelboard.

 

[greenspark1]

It's not about denying access to unqualified personnel, it's about the presence of a user in the bathroom with the door locked, restricting access to the electrician who might need to use the panelboard.

I have a similar issue with putting panels in a corridor on the hinge side of a door. If someone comes in the door they immediately hit anyone working on the panel. I don't think it is prohibited by Code, but good practice not to do.

 

[ActionDave]

I have a similar issue with putting panels in a corridor on the hinge side of a door. If someone comes in the door they immediately hit anyone working on the panel. I don't think it is prohibited by Code, but good practice not to do.

I think it is a best practice. It virtually guarantees a clear workspace. I have never had to unpile a load of crap to get to a panel when there is a door that swings in front of it.

 

[charlie b]

I agree with Action Dave. I include that in my design whenever I can. I leave it up to the electrician to recognize the presence of the nearby door, and to do something to prevent anyone from walking through it.

 

[kwired]

I have a similar issue with putting panels in a corridor on the hinge side of a door. If someone comes in the door they immediately hit anyone working on the panel. I don't think it is prohibited by Code, but good practice not to do.

Lock the door, or block it somehow if it can't be locked, You are almost guaranteed sufficient working space vs. almost any other location.