What defects do you see in this main panel?

[Kenton H. Shepard, CMI]

The equipment grounding conductors terminate on the grounding bus bar which is fastened directly to the metal panel. The neutrals terminate on the neutral bus bars which float, are bonded to each other, but lack a bonding strap or screw. I recommended a bonding device be installed. I don't see any problem with that.
This is the first time I've ever heard the term "backfed" breaker used except with a grid-tie PV system. Never heard it mentioned on a job, an inspection , or by any electrician. It's not mentioned in any of the inspection books we have (including Paul's) and I've never seen one in Colorado. My impression is that they're more common back east.
Ya think that maybe sometimes things are done differently in different parts of the country?

[Robert J. OConnor]

Backfed panels are sometimes found in my neck of the woods. The big thing is the main breaker/disconnect needs some type of devise (clip, bolt, bracket) to hold the breaker in place. Otherwise it could come loose and still be energized by the service wires ...

Example backfed panel with retainer bolt ...
http://www.nachi.org/forum/attachmen...aker-screw.jpg
http://www.nachi.org/forum/attachmen...0a-breaker.jpg
http://www.nachi.org/forum/attachmen...iner-screw.jpg

Another more sticky issue is that some panels are not listed for use as service equipment with a backfed main breaker.

[KEVIN WOOD]

My point exactly Kenton!
Unless you have been everywhere you can't make comments on Electrical this complicated without being in the same area. Yes there are evident things up front but I also have not seen this type of set up here either. Back fed panels sometimes but not very often.

[Robert J. OConnor]

I can respect when someone posts a question about something they havent seen before that isn't covered in reference books they have, as opposed to just disclaiming everything for a master electrician to figure out.