Outdoor Generator / Disconnecting Means in Building

[Sparky2791]

Looking for some input on this;

NEC References are 2011

NEC 700.12 (B) (6) tells me when I have an outdoor gen set I do not need a disconnecting means inside the building to disconnect ungrounded conductors that serve or pass through the building. If there is a readily accessible disconnect located within site of the building.

If the gen set has a main circuit breaker for the disconnecting means which is service entrance rated (complies with 225.36 as it requires) and is within sight of the building but is located within the weatherproof enclosure which is locked does it comply with readily accessible portion of 700.12 (B) (6)?

The in the ‘explanation portion’ of the 2011 NEC handbook the definition of accessible, readily indicates it does not preclude the use of a locked door for service equipment rooms. It is a locked door however not to a room.

Any input is appreciated.

 

[augie47]

I think this is one of those areas where you may find varying opinions. Most inspectors that I know look at the locked equipment door on the generator the same way they do a locked equipment room

(It might be worth noting that the '14 Code has changed the wording on 225.36 in such as manner that my opinion is the generator disconnect no longer needs to be SUSE)

 

[Sparky2791]

Thanks. Looks like an AHJ call on this one. Thanks for the '14 reference. We here in PA are still using the 2008 code, however I use the 2011 code because most of the inspectors I deal with have at least moved on to the 2011 edition. It's sad :weeping: we are not current, maybe by 2018 we will be able to move on here in PA.

Thanks Again