Clearances/egress

[karn]

I have a 1600amp service mdp 1 and 2 are bolted together, inspector says since this is over 6' wide and over 1200a then I need a 2nd egress in my electrical room, is this true?

 

[charlie b]

If just the enclosures of two panels are bolted together, I would say that they remain separate entities. In order for me to agree with the Inspector, I would want to know that the two share common internal bus bars or are otherwise internally and directly connected to each other. In other words, if one gets its power from a breaker on the other, or if both get power separately from the upstream source, then they are separate panels, and their combined width means nothing.

 

[karn]

If just the enclosures of two panels are bolted together, I would say that they remain separate entities. In order for me to agree with the Inspector, I would want to know that the two share common internal bus bars or are otherwise internally and directly connected to each other. In other words, if one gets its power from a breaker on the other, or if both get power separately from the upstream source, then they are separate panels, and their combined width means nothing.

Bus bars are bolted together,

 

[charlie b]

Bus bars are bolted together,

Then calling them by separate names does not make them separate panels. You have one panel, it is over 1200 amps, and it is over 6 feet wide. I cast my vote with the Inspector.

 

[texie]

I have a 1600amp service mdp 1 and 2 are bolted together, inspector says since this is over 6' wide and over 1200a then I need a 2nd egress in my electrical room, is this true?

Maybe. It will depend if you have unobstructed egress or extra working space. See 110.26(C)(2)(a) and (b). If you can meet these requirements 1 exit could be compliant.