code requirement?

[Mr. W]

Is there any speacial code requirements for wiring for the physically challenged.

 

[charlie b]

If there is, it is not in the National Electrical Code. Perhaps one or more building codes or local codes might apply.

 

[raider1]

I agree with Charlie. The NEC doesn't contain any requirements for handicapped accessibility. The local building codes are where you will find the accessibility requirements.

IBC Chapter 11 and ANSI 117.1-2003 contain the accessibility requirements for the area that I work in.

Check with your local building department to see what their requirements are.

Chris

 

[Lcdrwalker]

You might want to check the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). There are height restrictions on outlets, switches, pull stations etc.

 

[mdshunk]

Is there any speacial code requirements for wiring for the physically challenged.

There are a few instances where wiring something for the physically challenged can run afoul of the NEC, however. Much of that has been straightened out the last couple code cycles, however.

 

[chris kennedy]

There are a few instances where wiring something for the physically challenged can run afoul of the NEC, however. Much of that has been straightened out the last couple code cycles, however.

Examples please Marc.

 

[mdshunk]

Examples please Marc.

Plugmold on the front of a bath vanity was, or maybe still is, one example.

 

[DanZ]

A long time age, in a galaxy we call home, ADAAG wanted the top of the panel at 4' above floor, so someone in a wheel chair could access it, while the NEC wanted the bottom at 4' above floor, presumably so little fingers won't be tempted to root around in there. Or so I've been told. The solution at the time was to use locking face panels. I asked the architect that told me the story what he would do when the landlord or tenant lost the key for the lock. He told me it wasn't his problem.

 

[raider1]

while the NEC wanted the bottom at 4' above floor, presumably so little fingers won't be tempted to root around in there.

I am not aware of any past or present NEC requirement for a panel to be mounted with the bottom at no less than 4'.

Chris

 

[C3PO]

I am not aware of any past or present NEC requirement for a panel to be mounted with the bottom at no less than 4'.

Chris

I have not heard of this either.

 

[SEO]

There is no specific reference in the NEC pertaining to physically challanged persons . What you might look for in the Municipality that your working in are specific rules that they have adopted. The State of Michigan has a barrier free design graphics manual that shows locations of receptacles , switches , signage etc. (height for example of receptacles shall be no less than 15" to botton of box and switches shall in no case be higher than 48" to top of box. Art 210.52 of the NEC addresses max height above floor for receptacle outlets and Art 404.8 (A) 2005 NEC deals with switches.

 

[donselectric]

isnt it 6.6 to the center of the main sw...that would put the
bottom of the panel approx 4 ft off floor.....

 

[C3PO]

isnt it 6.6 to the center of the main sw...that would put the
bottom of the panel approx 4 ft off floor.....

Not if you have a large can. Like a MH62, MH74, MH80, etc,etc.

 

[raider1]

isnt it 6.6 to the center of the main sw...that would put the
bottom of the panel approx 4 ft off floor.....

The maximum height of an overcurrent device is 6' 7" to the center of the handle, but that doesn't mean I can't locate the device lower than that.

Chris