Dedicated equipment space?

[olc]

110.26 E 1 (a) requires that nothing be installed directly above a panelboard. The way it is writen it seems clear and final - no need to read on. Mostly because it says no leak protection equipment which infers no exceptions. Then I read on to (b) and it basically it says "never mind (a), it's OK as long as you protect the panelboard". Am I missing something?

 

[infinity]

110.26 E 1 (a) requires that nothing be installed directly above a panelboard. The way it is writen it seems clear and final - no need to read on. Mostly because it says no leak protection equipment which infers no exceptions. Then I read on to (b) and it basically it says "never mind (a), it's OK as long as you protect the panelboard". Am I missing something?

That's not what it says. It says that the area up to 6' above the equipment is the dedicated space. If the space allowed more than 6' above the equipment then foreign systems with protection can be installed there.

110.26(F) Dedicated Equipment Space. All switchboards, panelboards, distribution boards, and motor control centers shall be located in dedicated spaces and protected from damage.
Exception: Control equipment that by its very nature or because of other rules of the Code must be adjacent to or within sight of its operating machinery shall be permitted in those locations.
(1) Indoor. Indoor installations shall comply with 110.26(F)(1)(a) through (F)(1)(d).
(a) Dedicated Electrical Space. The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment and extending from the floor to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower, shall be dedicated to the electrical installation. No piping, ducts, leak protection apparatus, or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation shall be located in this zone.
Exception: Suspended ceilings with removable panels shall be permitted within the 1.8-m (6-ft) zone.
(b) Foreign Systems. The area above the dedicated space required by 110.26(F)(1)(a) shall be permitted to contain foreign systems, provided protection is installed to avoid damage to the electrical equipment from condensation, leaks, or breaks in such foreign systems.
(c) Sprinkler Protection. Sprinkler protection shall be permitted for the dedicated space where the piping complies with this section.
(d) Suspended Ceilings. A dropped, suspended, or similar ceiling that does not add strength to the building structure shall not be considered a structural ceiling.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Here is a graphic for you.

 

[olc]

Thanks.