From the time the ballot box/tabulator is publicly inspected before the polls open, until the polls close, the ballot box/tabulator must remain in public view.
4.F.1. Poll Watcher Access To the Ballot Box/Tabulator Area
Like the voting booth area, poll watchers, who have extraordinary access within the Polling Place, have limited access to the ballot box/tabulator area.
The restriction is based on the poll watcher's ability to see the vote as the ballot is cast. Even at the tabulator, the secrecy of the ballot may not be impinged.
If the poll watcher can read the ballot, the poll watcher is too close.
If a voter is near or approaching the ballot box/tabulator, the poll watcher should step away.
There is no restriction by foot, yard, or meter on how close a poll watcher can get to the ballot box/tabulator, any restriction is based on the poll watcher's ability to see the votes cast.
4.F.1.a. Tabulator Error Messages
Some tabulators have screens that produce error messages.
The poll watcher is allowed to approach the Tabulator Area to read the error message on the tabulator.
Make sure the ballot is not visible or ask that the ballot be covered.
Tabulator error messages are not automatic challenges. Give the Election Judge the opportunity to correct the situation. The poll watcher is there as an observer.