line and load of a non fused switch

[tim89s]

Is it stated anywhere in the code that the line side of a switch must be at the top?
In the switch I have neither the top set or bottom set of lugs have a protective guard on them.
I have a precut cable from a motor that I would like to land on the top set of lugs.

Thanks
Tim

 

[controlled]

Not sure about the code in the USA, but i would at the very least change the switch out for 1 with a protective line side cover.

 

[raider1]

Check out 404.7.

404.7 Indicating. General-use and motor-circuit switches,
circuit breakers, and molded case switches, where mounted
in an enclosure as described in 404.3, shall clearly indicate
whether they are in the open (off) or closed (on) position.
Where these switch or circuit breaker handles are operated
vertically rather than rotationally or horizontally, the
up position of the handle shall be the closed (on) position.

Chris

 

[Sierrasparky]

Check out 404.7.



Chris

That speaks of switch operation.
The OP is asking about top and line connections.

I would think the switch is labled with that the top is line. Bottom Load.
I would not like to see the blades sticking out being energized.

 

[augie47]

404.6(C) I believe will show you the blades must be de-energized when a single throw switch is in the open position.

 

[iwire]

I would think the switch is labled with that the top is line. Bottom Load.

That is the key, if it is marked it must be used as marked. If it is not marked it can be done either way.

I would not like to see the blades sticking out being energized.

The NEC agrees

404.6(C) Connection of Switches. Single-throw knife switches
and switches with butt contacts shall be connected such that
their blades are de-energized when the switch is in the
open position. Bolted pressure contact switches shall
have barriers that prevent inadvertent contact with energized
blades. Single-throw knife switches, bolted pressure
contact switches, molded case switches, switches
with butt contacts, and circuit breakers used as switches shall
be connected so that the terminals supplying the load are deenergized
when the switch is in the open position.

Exception: The blades and terminals supplying the load of
a switch shall be permitted to be energized when the switch
is in the open position where the switch is connected to
circuits or equipment inherently capable of providing a
backfeed source of power. For such installations, a permanent
sign shall be installed on the switch enclosure or immediately
adjacent to open switches with the following
words or equivalent: WARNING ? LOAD SIDE TERMINALS
MAY BE ENERGIZED BY BACKFEED.

 

[Sierrasparky]

forgot about the backfeed exception. Do they make such swiches like for PV that do not have exposed blades?