1910.305(e)(1): Electrical Enclosures in Damp or Wet Locations
Employers must install cabinets, cutout boxes, fittings, boxes and panelboard enclosures in damp or wet locations so moisture cannot enter and build up inside. They must be mounted with at least 6.35-mm (0.25-in.) airspace from the wall, except nonmetallic enclosures on concrete, masonry, tile or similar surfaces, and be weatherproof in wet locations.
Key takeaways
- 1910.305(e)(1) is part of OSHA's general industry standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart S).
- OSHA cited it 85 times in the last 3 years, in 85 inspections, with $139,925 in current penalties.
- Most citations: NY (20), NJ (8), MN (7).
- Related part: 1910.305(e) Enclosures for damp or wet locations (93 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1910.305(e)(1) ("Cabinets, cutout boxes, fittings, boxes, and panelboard enclosures") is one requirement inside 1910.305 Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use, an OSHA general industry standard (Part 1910, Subpart S). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(1) Cabinets, cutout boxes, fittings, boxes, and panelboard enclosures. Cabinets, cutout boxes, fittings, boxes, and panelboard enclosures in damp or wet locations shall be installed so as to prevent moisture or water from entering and accumulating within the enclosures and shall be mounted so there is at least 6.35-mm (0.25-in.) airspace between the enclosure and the wall or other supporting surface. However, nonmetallic enclosures may be installed without the airspace on a concrete, masonry, tile, or similar surface. The enclosures shall be weatherproof in wet locations. 85 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1910.305.
Where and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 8 |
| 2024 | 32 |
| 2025 | 28 |
| 2026 | 17 |
Top states: NY (20), NJ (8), MN (7), CT (6), VA (4)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| EVERGREEN RECYCLING, LLC | ALBANY, NY | $10,758 |
| PPR | CATANO, PR | $9,457 |
| 159108 - COUNTY OF CASWELL SOLID WASTE | YANCEYVILLE, NC | $8,000 |
| KRAFT HEINZ | MUSCATINE, IA | $7,813 |
| AVALON CARE CENTER - HONOLULU, L.L.C. | HONOLULU, HI | $7,260 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1910.305(e)(1), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1910.305(e)(1).
Related parts of this rule
- 1910.305(e) Enclosures for damp or wet locations 93 citations
Get your crew competent
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Trainers and suppliers: feature your business on this rule for $25/month.
Frequently asked questions
How must enclosures be mounted in damp or wet locations?
With at least 6.35-mm (0.25-in.) airspace between the enclosure and the wall or supporting surface.
Is there an exception to the airspace rule?
Yes. Nonmetallic enclosures may be installed without the airspace on concrete, masonry, tile or similar surfaces.
What extra rule applies in wet locations?
The enclosures must be weatherproof.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.305 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-20
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.