The minimum working space height required for the disconnect switch is 6 1 / 2 feet (see Figure 6). The minimum working space height for electrical equipment has not always been 6 1 / 2 feet. For many years, the working space height (or headroom) was required to be at least 61/4 feet (or 6 feet, 3 inches).
What is the clearance for a disconnect?
There should be at least three to three-and-a-half feet of clearance in front of all electrical disconnects and breaker panels. In fact some employers go so far as to mark off a line on the floor or paint an area.
What is the minimum working clearance in front of an electrical panel?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Electrical Code (NEC), require that electrical panels have a minimum of 3 feet (36 inches) of clearance and a minimum headroom of 6.5 feet or the height of the equipment whichever is greater.
What is the minimum clearance in front of a transformer?
110-26 of the National Electrical Code (NEC): 1) at least a 3-ft clearance in front of all electrical equipment; 2) a 30 in. -wide working space in front of equipment operating at 600V or less; and 3) minimum headroom clearance of 6 ft or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater.
What is the clearance in front of a 480 volt panel?
The NEC requires that there be a minimum of three feet of clearance in front of a 480-volt electrical panel. This clearance is measured for the live electrical parts or front of the electrical panel.
Is it against code to cover an electrical panel?
You are allowed to cover your electrical panel but it must be easy to open, can not interfere with the opening of the steel door of the panel and you have to make sure you have full access to all of the breakers. Keep in mind that some local electrical codes may prohibit the covering of your electrical panel.
Can anything be in front of an electrical panel?
The height of the working space must be at 6-1/2 feet. Other electrical equipment located above or below the panel cannot protrude more than 6-inches beyond the front of the panel .
How much clearance is needed around a transformer?
All dry-type transformers depend upon the circulation of air for cooling; therefore, it is important that the flow of air around a transformer not be impeded. UL 1561 requires that there be no less than 6 inches (152.4 mm) clearance between any side transformer with ventilated openings and any wall obstruction.
Do transformers need working clearance?
We submitted the question to the AHJ and received the following response: Question: Is working clearance in accordance with NEC Section 110.26 (A) required for dry type transformers? Answer: No.
Is it bad to live next to a transformer?
How close can I live or work near powerlines or other electrical sources? There is no established evidence that the exposure to magnetic fields from powerlines , substations, transformers or other electrical sources, regardless of the proximity, causes any health effects.
Can a door swing into electrical panel clearance?
110.26(A)(2) says “in all cases, the work shall permit at least a 90 degree opening of the equipment doors or hinged panels”. If front door was open, panel door could not open. My interpretation of NEC is panel behind door-swing is a code violation. Well, 110.26 does say that the work space shall be clear at all times .
What is electrical clearance?
The electrical clearance is the electrical isolation between two conductive components , whereas the creepage indicates the conduction of electricity across the surface of a nonconductive component. The clearance and creepage distance are two important parameters while designing an electrical assembly.
What can I use to cover an electrical panel?
Strategically placed artwork, framed message boards, or a weaving or tapestry are all viable options for covering up obtrusive electrical eyesores. HGTV suggests inserting child proof safety plugs into unused outlets before covering with artwork.
Can you cover an electrical panel with a picture?
A picture is fine since it can be easily removed to service the panel.
Where are electrical panels not allowed?
A panel cannot be located: 1) Where exposed to physical damage . 2) In the vicinity of easily ignitable material. Clothes closets are specifically noted as an area with easily ignitable material (hanging clothes).
How far does a wall need to be from an electrical panel?
The height of the working space must be at 6-1/2 feet . Other electrical equipment located above or below the panel cannot protrude more than 6-inches beyond the front of the panel.
