Question about pool and underground electrical distance

[Stroonzo]

I understand the NEC calls for a distance of 5' horizontally from the pool wall to any underground electrical distribution line (one not being used to supply power to the pool). However, I understand that if such a line was encased in conduit, the pool may be within 6".

My question is concerning the distance requirement. Along my utility easement there is a 3 phase wye supplying electrical to a sewer lift station. I'm in the process of finding out if this was a direct burial or encasement in conduit run. The reason i need to know is the utility was marked approx 30 inches from where I'd like my pool.

What is the safety concern / theory on the 5' distance (if this was direct burial)? Is the concern / code requirement based on stray voltage concern?

Thanks,
Jeff

 

[iwire]

Here is the code requirement, I see nothing about concreate encasement changing it

680.10 Underground Wiring Location. Underground wiring shall not be permitted under the pool or within the area extending 1.5 m (5 ft) horizontally from the inside wall of the pool unless this wiring is necessary to supply pool equipment permitted by this article. Where space limi-tations prevent wiring from being routed a distance 1.5 m (5 ft) or more from the pool, such wiring shall be permitted where installed in complete raceway systems of rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, or a nonmetallic race-way system. All metal conduit shall be corrosion resistant and suitable for the location. The minimum cover depth shall be as given in Table 680.10.

 

[Stroonzo]

Yes. I understand that. It states

"Where space limi-tations prevent wiring from being routed a distance 1.5 m (5 ft) or more from the pool, such wiring shall be permitted where installed in complete raceway systems of rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, or a nonmetallic race-way system."

As I said, we are checking see if the wires are encased in conduit.

But what im most curious about is the theory the code is based on. Is this a concern with what may happen if the line were to fail? If direct burial, what does 5' provide that 30" doesn't.

Just trying to understand what the code is protecting against as it is written.

Thanks

 

[Chamuit]

Speculations as to why...

Speculations as to why...

Speculations as to why...

1. Why would you want to run any non-pool wiring under a pool, anyway? (Empty pool water $$ +wasteful, tear-it n repair-it costs, etc.)
2. To maintain the integrity of the eq pot grid and the pool shell itself.
3. Most pool decking I've seen, and I ain't seen it all, is less than 5' around the pool.

 

[Stroonzo]

I'm having a Premier Pools fiberglass in ground pool installed. A service line was located in the easement 30" horizontally from the pool sidewall. I have verified and have the workorder showing this 3 phase supply line to the sewer lift station is fully enclosed in conduit.

With that, am I correct in interpreting the NEC as stating the min clearance is now 6 inches. I do in fact have space limitation. Additionally, I'm going to be 30 inches away.