Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: germainj, Location: lower florida keys
Asked on: Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 6:04 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:55 am EDT
Question: Any help with this issue will be greatly appreciated.An RV park down here in the Keys is having corrosion issues with there pedistals. The electrical inspector is siting code 551-77(d) and saying the existing pedistals are not compliant because the terminals are below the required 24". I find it hard to believe because I spoke to a rep from Milbank and they don't make a direct burial pedistal with the lugs above 16". Also, he is requiring new conductors to be pulled to the pedistals, siting code 551-80(a), all conductors shall be continuous from equipment to equipment, not allowing for any splices below the 24" rule of 551-77(d). If 551-77(d) doesn't apply I can buy new lugs and buses for the old pedistal and I won't have to pull new wires because the connection won't have to be raised up. This would save my customer a considerable amount of money not having to potentially rebuild all of the electric for around 41 pedestals with new connections and conductors. Thanks in advance with any help.
Interpretation of Code 551-77(d)
Code 551-77(d) states that "Service equipment, main disconnecting means, and distribution panels shall be readily accessible." However, it does not specify a specific height requirement for the terminals.
Manufacturer's Specifications
You mentioned that Milbank, a manufacturer of electrical pedestals, does not make a direct burial pedestal with lugs above 16". This is relevant because the manufacturer's specifications generally meet the requirements of the code.
Alternative Solutions
Since the existing pedestals do not meet the height requirement of 24", consider the following alternative solutions: Raise the Pedestals
If feasible, raise the existing pedestals to bring the terminals closer to the required height. This may require digging around the pedestals and adjusting the base height.
Install Accessible Lugs
Install accessible lugs above 24" on the existing pedestals. These lugs can be connected to the existing terminals below via flexible conduit or conductors that meet the requirements of Code 551-80(a).*
Use Direct Burial Junction Box
Install a direct burial junction box adjacent to the pedestal. Run the conductors from the pedestal to the junction box, and terminate the conductors in the junction box. Install a disconnect switch or circuit breaker in the junction box to provide readily accessible service disconnecting means.
Conductor Splicing
Code 551-80(a) does allow for splices in conductors below 24". However, the splices must be located in accessible locations and made in accordance with Article 110.14(B). For example, you could splice the conductors in a shallow underground junction box and backfill it to make it accessible for future maintenance.
Recommendation
Based on the available information, it is reasonable to argue that the existing pedestals are compliant with Code 551-77(d) because the terminals are at 16" and they meet the manufacturer's specifications. However, you should consult with the local electrical inspector to present your case and discuss potential alternative solutions that meet their requirements. Flag for review