Circuit breaker as motor disconnect

[dnbob]

I had an inspector tell me that a circuit breaker and lock off device was not an acceptable means for disconnecting a motor, specifically a dishwasher. I have searched the site, but the forum seems to disagree with my inspector. I can't remember the article he quoted, any one have an idea or comment?


Bob

 

[charlie]

Re: Circuit breaker as motor disconnect

A circuit breaker is a switch and, if it can be locked in the open position, it can be used as the required disconnecting means.

 

[dnbob]

Re: Circuit breaker as motor disconnect

Thank you for the response Charlie, but can you give me an article to back it up.

 

[dnbob]

Re: Circuit breaker as motor disconnect

My inspector also would not accept a breaker lock off as a disconnect even on a convection oven, because it had a motor contained inside.

 

[luke warmwater]

Re: Circuit breaker as motor disconnect

try 404.11 and 430.111

 

[rbalex]

Re: Circuit breaker as motor disconnect

I would also add 430.109(A)(2) to Luke's list.

Now for the kicker. If you look at 430 Part IX carefully, a disconnect located "in sight" of the motor is not required to be lockable at all in the NEC. All references to "lock," "lockable," and "locked," (when it doesn't refer to locked rotor current) are in exceptions and fine print notes.

NFPA 70E Lockout/Tagout procedures only requires that some disconnecting means ahead of the work is lockable not all of them.

I pointed this out to both friends on CMP11 and my colleagues on the 70E TC during the 2002 NEC cycle. I envisioned that a worker may not lockout a disconnect under the "individual employee control" provision of 70E 120.2(C)(2). Believing themselves to be safe because the disconnect was "in sight" all they need do is turn their back it. Fifty feet is still far enough away that someone may not notice.