404.8

[augie47]

When a air handler unit is installed above a suspended ceiling is it permitted to install the disconnect 6 or 7 ft away from the access panel. The service tech will need to have 2 ladders or constantly move the one ladder.
Exception 2 says "adjacent" but NEC doesn't define adjacent.
The switch is "within sight from"

 

[benaround]

Gus, The last part of ex#2 says " ---and to be accessibile by portable means".

This is different than the main section where they need to be " readily accessibile". So, imo

6 or 7 feet away would be accessibile.