Residential Combination Panel Damaged Beyond Repair

Location: Chilliwack

Regulated industry sector: Electrical – Low voltage electrical system (30V to 1000V)

Incident overview

A combination panel in a residence was damaged beyond repair when the mechanical interconnection between the load side of the main circuit breaker and panel bussing failed. Electrical arcing occurred, causing heat, ignition, then fire on the panel and branch circuit wiring. As the combination panel was damaged entirely, it was difficult for investigators to fully confirm the cause of the equipment failure.