Exterior disc and security

[usehername]

This is my first renovation that I must use a meter/main or similar setup in order to relocate a drop to suit the local poco. My question is how do I as a contractor address this home owner statement? "---then basically anyone can walk up and shut my house down" I have seen combos padlocked in my travels and I will be locating a second disconnect at the panel but I certainly can not suggest that as a solution. Or did I misunderstand what is "readily accessable" ? Thanks for any thoughts.

 

[Cavie]

Locks are just fine. Most panels have provisions for installing one. In SW Florida, The POCO requires on durning construction for TEMP/Perment Power on the main disc. Woulds you want some kids turning off your electricty while you were on vacation??

 

[roger]

Forget about "readily accessible", a lock does not change this, read the definition of "Accessible (as applied to wiring methods)"

There is nothing wrong with locking a disconnect or electrical equipment, many electrical rooms where the Main(s) is / are located are behind a number of locked doors.

The Main is not an "Emergency Off " switch.

Roger

 

[celtic]

Locks are fine...see them all the time on meter/main stacks.
If the POCO needs to kill power, they have personnel that will kill it at weatherhead or at pad.
If the FD needs to kill power, the trucks all carry bolt cutters that will make short work of the shackle.

 

[usehername]

Understood... "accessable" as it applies to "qualified person" Thanks for the replies. I wish someone would have padlocked the existing panel !!