445.18

[mshields]

Per 445.18, it strikes me that there is no requirement on where the disconnect required by (A) or the EPO lockable in the open position, required by (B) and which may be utilized in lieu of (A). I know that Articles 700 through 702 require a disconnect within sight of the unit but that wouldn't effect where you put an EPO if you choose to use that EPO in lieu of the disconnect.

So where does that EPO need to be.

Also the last paragraph in (B) (which I think ought to have been (C) requires yet another EPO, and this time it gives a choice of two locations. So it seems to me, to meet the requirements of 445.18 (disregarding the disconnect requirements of 700 through 702), you could put in two EPO's; one lockable open and one not necessarily outside the enclosure of the generator right next to each other.

Is it me, or is this not nailed down as well as it could be?

 

[Chamuit]

Article 100 - In Sight From (Within Sight From, Within Sight)

...the specified equipment is to be visible and not more than 15 m (50 ft) distant from the other.

 

[jcleavit]

445.18 just requires the use of at least one locking disconnecting means. You can't disregard 700,701, and 702 because those are the situations the generator is installed in and they have their specific requirements. Most permanently installed generators fall under these 3 articles. Don't over-analyze it too much. If its not an "Emergency System"(701) or a "Legally Required Standby System"(701), then it is almost certainly an "Optional Standy System"(702). The situation you are describing is hypothetical and is not really worth discussing.

 

[shortcircuit2]

Per 445.18, it strikes me that there is no requirement on where the disconnect required by (A) or the EPO lockable in the open position, required by (B) and which may be utilized in lieu of (A). I know that Articles 700 through 702 require a disconnect within sight of the unit but that wouldn't effect where you put an EPO if you choose to use that EPO in lieu of the disconnect.

Well I have really read this one up and down. Location. My interpretation is that if you use a lockable EPO for the prime mover in lieu the of 445.18(A) disconnecting means...it would need to be insight as required by the 700 articles.

So where does that EPO need to be.

That, I agree could have been better defined...and most likely will be in the 2020 NEC. But there are other codes such as NFPA 37 and NFPA 110 which guide the installer on where an "EPO" or "manual shutoff" for the prime mover should be located...and in Massachusetts 527 CMR 1 may have further information. I believe 527 CMR 27 was moved into the new Fire Code

Also the last paragraph in (B) (which I think ought to have been (C) requires yet another EPO, and this time it gives a choice of two locations. So it seems to me, to meet the requirements of 445.18 (disregarding the disconnect requirements of 700 through 702), you could put in two EPO's; one lockable open and one not necessarily outside the enclosure of the generator right next to each other.

Yes I agree, location needs to be better defined

Is it me, or is this not nailed down as well as it could be?

Although it is not nailed down in the electrical code the other codes above will impact location I believe.

Anyway that is my input on the subject after 4-months of being under the 2017 Code here in Massachusetts.

 

[mshields]

thank you all

thank you all

I am always amazed and appreciative of the time people put into these responses on this site and most appreciative.