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Ok ...Inspector Time

So, clearly we have ALOT going on in this image. So, give it a look and see everything you can find. Also make it a learning moment, take time to look up and provide actual NEC references where possible. Ultimately it makes you a better electrician and inspector, where applicable of course.

Ok ...Inspector Time

Joshua Audette

Wow. To me looks like a lot going on.

What first comes to mind.

Aluminum-to-Copper Connections from 110.14
110.14(A) – Terminals must be listed and identified for the conductor material.

Also
110.14(B) – Splices must be made with listed devices.

Open Knockouts / Hole in Back of Cabinet
312.5(A) – Openings must be closed.

I also believe 110.12(A) – applies here, not very workmanlike.

Cant really tell but seems to be corrosion on connectors, maybe just the color?
Is the lug marked CU/AL?

Is that double lugging?

My eye tells me something is wrong with that grounding bar, i just cant get the words out to describe it.

Joshua Audette

312.5(C) – Cables entering cabinets must be secured to the cabinet.

408.41 – Each grounded conductor must terminate in an individual terminal. (perhaps im reaching with this one?)

Joshua Audette

I also went a bit further and tried TRADEHOG.NET and uploaded the image and simply asked "find the violations here" and it came up with some great calls as well and confirmed some thoughts.

" Improper splicing/termination of service conductors: The large conductors appear to be joined with split-bolt connectors wrapped in tape inside the enclosure. Service/feeder conductors must be spliced/terminated only with listed connectors and installed per listing; taped split-bolts like this are typically not an approved/secure termination method for this location. (NEC 110.3(B), 110.14(A), 300.15)

  • No proper insulation/covering over live parts: The split-bolts and conductor strands look exposed/poorly insulated, creating a clear shock/arc hazard. Live parts must be guarded/insulated. (NEC 110.27, 110.12)
  • Evidence of overheating/damage at connections: Darkened insulation/tape and messy terminations suggest overheating or arcing—connections must be made to provide a good electrical connection without damaging conductors. (NEC 110.14, 110.12)
  • Possible double-lugging / multiple conductors under a lug (left side): The left lug/terminal area appears to have more than one conductor under a termination not clearly identified for it. Terminals are only permitted to have multiple conductors if listed/identified for that. (NEC 110.14(A))
  • Poor workmanship / debris / contamination inside enclosure: Dirt, insect nests, and general disorder indicate the installation is not “neat and workmanlike.” (NEC 110.12) "

Just thought that was really cool as well. what a rough install.

Jonathan Battles

300.4(G) and 200.6(B)

Bill Budz

Wow you guys are on this. Great job Code Nerds