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  1. #1
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    May 2011
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    Default Commercial Deadfront

    Do commercial property inspectors remove deadfront covers as do residential inspectors? A large building could have twenty or more panels, many at 460V.

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  2. #2
    Join Date
    Feb 2009
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    Southern Vancouver Island
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    It depends on the building and the client's expectations.
    No, you would not normally remove all the deadfronts in a large complex. A business with 20 little old rental cabins, yes, open them all and make a list of all the screwups. If there is a suspicion of a problem in a panel, sure. If there is any concern with the larger service panels, it is normal to call for a professional to do further investigation.

    This is something you should establish when you submit your estimate. You do a pre-inspection and decide what you will do for how much.

    John Kogel, RHI, BC HI Lic #47455
    www.allsafehome.ca

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Chicago
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    Quote Originally Posted by Garrett Merrick View Post
    Do commercial property inspectors remove deadfront covers as do residential inspectors? A large building could have twenty or more panels, many at 460V.
    Hello Garrett,

    Panel covers of energized equipment should not be removed (especially 277/480 volt) with a few exceptions.

    NFPA 70-E applies and appropriate PPE is required if the equipment is opened while energized.

    ARC flash / ARC blast hazards are very real.

    Stay safe.

    Sincerely,

    Corey


  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2010
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    BC Canada
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    deadfront; is it electric panel cover?


    Is it dangous to remove a 600 V panel cover? otherwise, how can we find the fuse/breakers match, burn, 2 taps?


  5. #5
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Chicago
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    Quote Originally Posted by Peter Louis View Post
    deadfront; is it electric panel cover?


    Is it dangous to remove a 600 V panel cover? otherwise, how can we find the fuse/breakers match, burn, 2 taps?
    Hi Peter,

    The term "deadfront" is sometimes used to describe an electrical panel cover.

    It is extremely dangerous to open (remove panel covers) 600 V panels. If you are inspecting facilities with 600 volt (or larger) equipment, a very qualified electrician is needed. A home inspector poking around those voltages has no business doing that and is putting himself and others at serious risk.

    All inspectors should be familar with NFPA 70-E. It is also a good idea to take a class (you can do it on-line) pertaining to 70-E and arc flash training.

    Sincerely,

    Corey


  6. #6
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    BC Canada
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    Thank you Coery


  7. #7
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    Feb 2008
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    Chicago IL
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    If you are doing those types of buildings, there should be enough gravy in your inspection fee to bring a licensed sparky with you to evaluate such items. I've done it when I've had to but do not make it a practice. Larger stuff like that I just schedule my licensed sparky to come along and he looks at all the electrical while I do the building. Same goes for other technical items such as elevators, etc.

    www.aic-chicago.com
    773/844-4AIC
    "The Code is not a ceiling to reach but a floor to work up from"

  8. #8
    Join Date
    May 2011
    Location
    Utah
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    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    Thanks, guys. Good advice.


  9. #9
    aefieldinspectors's Avatar
    aefieldinspectors Guest

    Default Re: Commercial Deadfront

    This property inspection is not an exhaustive inspection of the structure, systems, or components. The inspection may not reveal all deficiencies.


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