ESSENTIAL
NEC Code 110.26 addresses the requirements for working space around electrical equipment. Here's a professional explanation of its key provisions:
Working Space Requirements
The National Electrical Code (NEC) Section 110.26 mandates that sufficient access and working space be provided and maintained around all electrical equipment to allow for safe operation and maintenance[1]. This requirement applies to equipment operating at 600 volts or less.
Dimensions of Working Space
The code specifies three critical dimensions for working space:
Depth: The depth of the working space is determined by Table 110.26(A)(1), which provides minimum clear distances based on voltage conditions[1]. For equipment up to 600 volts, the minimum clear distance ranges from 3 to 4 feet, depending on the specific conditions.
Width: The width of the working space must be at least 30 inches or the width of the equipment, whichever is greater[1].
Height: The working space must extend from the grade, floor, or platform to a height of 6.5 feet or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater[1].
Clear Spaces
Section 110.26(B) prohibits using the required working space for storage. The area must be kept clear of obstructions to ensure safe access to the equipment[1].
Entrance and Egress
General Requirements
At least one entrance of sufficient area must be provided to give access to and egress from the working space[4].
Large Equipment
For equipment rated 1200 amperes or more and over 6 feet wide, two entrances are generally required, each at least 24 inches wide and 6.5 feet high[4].
Personnel Doors
When equipment rated 800 amperes or more is installed, and a personnel door is within 25 feet of the working space, the door must open in the direction of egress and be equipped with panic hardware[4].
Illumination and Dedicated Equipment Space
The code also mandates adequate illumination for all working spaces about service equipment, switchboards, panelboards, or motor control centers[2].
Additionally, certain types of electrical equipment require dedicated space extending from the floor to a height of 6 feet above the equipment or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower[5].
By adhering to these requirements, the NEC aims to ensure the safety of personnel working on or near electrical equipment, providing sufficient space for operation, maintenance, and emergency egress.
Citations: [1] https://iaeimagazine.org/2013/julyaugust-2013/working-space-for-electrical-equipment/ [2] https://www.ecmag.com/magazine/articles/article-detail/codes-standards-working-space-0 [3] https://www.electricallicenserenewal.com/Electrical-Continuing-Education-Courses/NEC-Content.php?sectionID=1413 [4] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/national-electrical-code-simplified-article-11026-c- [5] https://www.ecmag.com/magazine/articles/article-detail/codes-standards-space-final-frontier-history-working-space-nec [6] https://www.ecmweb.com/national-electrical-code/code-basics/article/20886142/how-much-working-space-is-enough [7] https://forums.mikeholt.com/threads/110-26-working-space-about-ee.54625/ [8] https://www.thebuildingcodeforum.com/forum/threads/you-cant-be-serious-a-very-bad-nec-interpretation.33271/