Final answer:
Clothes touching a circuit panel represent a violation of safety and electrical codes due to obstruction of clear space; they pose a safety hazard by potentially hindering safe operation or emergency access and must be removed immediately.
Step-by-step explanation:
During an inspection, clothes found touching a circuit panel could pose a significant safety hazard. The inspector should note that the clearance area around the panel is obstructed, which is a violation of safety codes that require a clear space for safe operation and emergency access. The inspector should recommend that all obstructions be removed immediately to allow clear access to the electrical panel. This is crucial not only for safety but also for compliance with the electrical codes that ensure the safe operation of electrical systems within a building.
It is similar to scenarios depicted in LibreTexts where maintaining proper insulation and grounding in electrical appliances is critical to prevent shocks or fires. Just as a worn insulation on a live/hot wire requires immediate repair to ensure safety, unimpeded access to a circuit panel must be maintained to prevent potential electrical hazards.