No, this is not a common or accepted design practice for electrical distribution in an office space, or practically any space. In fact, it's actively wrong and could lead to several problems. The "We've always done it this way" argument is a red flag and a signal to push back harder.Here's why it's wrong and what you should do

Why it's wrong:
Incorrect Load Balancing

The fundamental goal of distributing power through sub-panels is to balance the load as much as possible across phases (A, B, C). However, the loads assigned to a sub-panel need to match the physical circuits wired to it. Simply spreading theoretical loads across panels defeats the purpose of load balancing and doesn't reflect the reality of the installation.

Inaccurate Panel Schedules

Panel schedules must accurately represent the circuits originating from each sub-panel. This is critical for:

Troubleshooting

If something goes wrong, electricians need to know which panel and circuit breaker to check. If the schedules are inaccurate, troubleshooting becomes much more difficult and time-consuming.

Future Modifications

As tenants change or needs evolve, new circuits might be added. Accurate schedules are essential for determining available capacity and planning future expansions.

Code Compliance

Panel schedules are required by the NEC (National Electrical Code) and should accurately reflect the loads and connections of each circuit.

Potential Overloading

By arbitrarily assigning loads to panels that don't actually serve those loads, you risk overloading the sub-panels that are serving those loads. This can lead to nuisance tripping, overheating, and even fire hazards.

Inaccurate Voltage Drop Calculations

Voltage drop calculations are crucial for ensuring that equipment receives the proper voltage. If the load distribution is inaccurate, the voltage drop calculations will also be inaccurate, potentially leading to equipment malfunction or reduced lifespan.

Lack of Transparency

This method hides the actual load on each sub-panel, making it difficult to assess the system's overall performance and identify potential problems.

Liability

As the signing supervisor, you're ultimately responsible for the correctness and safety of the electrical design. Approving a design that you know is incorrect could have serious legal and professional consequences.

Why they might be doing it (but it's still wrong)



Perceived Simplicity

They might think it's easier to distribute the overall building load than to carefully track which loads are fed from each panel. However, this "simplicity" creates more problems than it solves.

Inadequate Software or Skills

If the drafter is not an electrician and doesn't have access to good electrical design software, they might resort to shortcuts.

What you should do


Stand Your Ground

Don't be intimidated by "We've always done it this way." You are a signing supervisor and have a responsibility to ensure the design is correct.2.

Document Your Concerns

Create a written summary of your concerns, outlining the specific errors you've found and the potential consequences.3.

Quote the NEC

If necessary, cite the specific sections of the NEC that require accurate panel schedules and load calculations. For example:

NEC 220

Load calculations.

NEC 408.4(A)

Panelboard directory requirements (which implies accurate circuit labeling).

NEC 110.3(B)

Approved Equipment & Installation which requires following the manufacturer's instructions.4.

Present Alternatives

Offer a clear, correct approach to the design. This might involve:

Working with an Electrician

If the drafter is not an electrician, bring in a qualified electrician to review and correct the design.

Using Electrical Design Software

Implement or recommend the use of proper electrical design software that can automate load calculations and generate accurate panel schedules.*

Circuit Tracing

Ensure that the drafter physically traces the circuits on the drawings to accurately assign loads to the correct sub-panels.5.

Escalate If Necessary

If the drafter and their supervisor are unwilling to address your concerns, escalate the issue to a higher level of management. Your reputation and professional license are at stake.6.

Consult with a Peer

If you're still unsure, reach out to a more experienced electrician or electrical engineer in Oregon for a second opinion.7.

Refuse to Sign

If you've exhausted all other options and you're still not satisfied with the design, you have the right (and the responsibility) to refuse to sign off on it.

In Summary: The practice you've described is unacceptable. It's inaccurate, potentially unsafe, and non-compliant with the NEC. As a signing supervisor, you have a duty to ensure that the electrical design is correct and safe. Flag for review