110.26 Question

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Vedo

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I am looking at upgrading a control system (adding a new PLC) with some definite working clearance issues. The enclosure is about 15 years old, and at some point, a sheetrock wall was put up in front of the enclosure. The control panel doors have been removed (presumably to get around the 90? rule, 110.26.A2). There is approx. 28" of clearance between the face of the enclosure and the wall, and less than 36" to exposed live parts. A man door w/lock was installed on this "room", so now it could qualify as being accessible only to authorized persons.

Questions:
1. Does the code allow the removal of the enclosure doors? Doesn't this violate the "installed per manufacturer's instructions".
2. Even if a variance was allowed for the wall, would I not be obligated to bring this installation up to code, or receive another variance, if we upgrade the panel?
 
Vedo said:
Questions:
1. Does the code allow the removal of the enclosure doors? Doesn't this violate the "installed per manufacturer's instructions".
2. Even if a variance was allowed for the wall, would I not be obligated to bring this installation up to code, or receive another variance, if we upgrade the panel?
Click to expand...

1) now that the cover is removed does it expose live parts ? if yes it is a violation.
2) good luck on getting a variance on that. If the wall did not get permitted it is not likely that a variance would be granted unless it has been there about 80 years.
 
Presumably since you are talking about a control system and PLCs then you are talking industrial?

1) There is no requirement for a control system to be mounted in an enclosure let alone one with a door. Removal of the door is not a violation per se. Rather restricted and controlled access is required. There is more to it than a simple locked door but you can probably find a way to meet the requirements.

2) Not sure who "waived" the wall but it won't protect your company to have that waiver. It is also likely the inspector that gave the waiver did not have the authority to waive the NFPA70 and NFPA70E requirements. Your company should correct the deficiency.

Additional protective equipment is required to work where there is insufficient working clearance if any of the parts are live at the time of work. This includes the line side of the disconnect. See NFPA70E
 
please look at NFPA 79 - Electrical Standard for industrial Machinery - 2007 ed.

chapter 11 deals with enclosures and working clearences.
11.3 - degrees of protection for the equipment.
11.4.10 - enclosure openings
11.5.1 - working space - doors are required to open 90 degrees.
11.5.1.1 - working space depth - see nfpa 70 table 110.26(A)(1).
NFPA 79 does have some exceptions listed after the table

sorry that i could not quote the book for you.

regards,
james
 
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