Compliance News: Access to Electrical Switchboards

By Robert Trotter, CBO, CFM


Electrical wiring and equipment are required by NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code® to be in accordance with the 1999 edition of NFPA 70, National Electrical Code. While there are specific requirements for access to electrical switchboards, here is an overview of the requirements. Sufficient access and working space should be provided and maintained about all electric equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment. The depth of the working space in the direction of access to live parts should not be less than 36 inches and the width of the working space in front of the electric equipment should be the width of the equipment or 30 inches, whichever is greater. The work space should be clear and extend from the grade, floor, or platform to the minimum height of six and one-half feet. The working space required by the NEC is not permitted to be used for storage (as pictured).