Dedicated Electrical Space Exception

[sandsnow]

In the exception to 110-26(f)(1)(a), I am confused as to what this means. Could someone please give me some examples of an installation that would comply with the exception. I am inspecting a project with an interstitial level full of piping and ducts and a couple panelboards. The contractor would like to take advantage of the exception, but we don't know how to apply it.
I would be grateful for any insight
Thanks

 

[charlie]

Re: Dedicated Electrical Space Exception

I am making the assumption that you are talking about, "Exception: Suspended ceilings with removable panels shall be permitted within the 1.8-m (6-ft) zone."

All this is doing is permitting the dropped ceiling to extend into the dedicated space so the job will have a finished appearance to it. What are you finding confusing about it?

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Dedicated Electrical Space Exception

I believe his confusion stems from the 1999 NEC exception for that section which as has been revised for the 2002 NEC. I believe the 99 exception has no definitive meaning and therefor has been removed for this very confusion.

As the inspector, I suggest you get a formal interpreation from the NFPA or make a consensus ruling on the exception allowance with your AHJ.

 

[sandsnow]

Re: Dedicated Electrical Space Exception

I forgot to put 1999 nec in there. Do you think that "or compiles with (b)" allows a lower height of the dedicated space above the equipment? If so, would it then be reasonable to just make sure there is enough room to run conduit out of the top of the panelboards?
Just looking for anybody's point of view on this before we as the AHJ come to a consensus.

 

[sdbob]

Re: Dedicated Electrical Space Exception

My view is you should let you better judgement prevail if you're using the '99 code. The intent of this section is clear (as mud) to me.

If there are foreign systems (piping, ductwork) in a panel's dedicated space, reasonable assurances should be made which minimizes the threat of water leakage ect., on or around the electrical equipment.

Drain pans, sheilds, enclosures that drain leaks away from the electrical equipment, would all serve to comply with this requirement.

Equipment that is isolated from the foreign equipment by height or physical enclosures or covers that will afford adequate mechanical protection from vehicular traffic or accidental contact by unauthorized personnel

The room you describe seems like it might be an area accessed only by authorized persons, providing an exemption as well.