disconnect height

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Tfret

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I have several control cabinets that are very old. The disconnects are over 6'7" above the floor. Extension handles have been fabricated from 3/8" rod and bent such that the disconnect can easily be operated from the floor. The question has been posed whether or not this is legal. Due to space constraints, there is no practical means of providing a permanent step in this area. It seems to me that the handle extension serves the same purpose of a step. It makes the disconnect readily accessable. Has anyone had any experience with this, or have an opinion they can share?

Thanks
 
If you can justify the use of the switch in accordance with one of the three exceptions to 404.8 (A) the disconnect might be acceptable at a hight above 6'-7"

charlie
 
Tfret said:
I have several control cabinets that are very old. The disconnects are over 6'7" above the floor. Extension handles have been fabricated from 3/8" rod and bent such that the disconnect can easily be operated from the floor. The question has been posed whether or not this is legal. Due to space constraints, there is no practical means of providing a permanent step in this area. It seems to me that the handle extension serves the same purpose of a step. It makes the disconnect readily accessable. Has anyone had any experience with this, or have an opinion they can share?

Thanks
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If it met code when installed, IMO it is perfectly legal. I have seen this many times and do not find it to be a serious safety hazard.
Now having said that, I would also recommend you try to find a way to get disconnects down to a better height. I have on occasion added another disconnect mounted on the side of the panel at proper height.
 
Fixed handle extensions are acceptable or else several manufacturers of motor control centers (including Square D and Allen-Bradley) are in trouble.

All of the exceptions to 404.8 deal with situations without fixed in place "rigid" extensions.
Ex.1 applies to bus duct switches which are often operated by pull cords
Ex.2 applies to devices next to the controlled equipment.
Ex.3 applies to removable hook sticks.
 
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