Panel located behind swinging door. When the door is not in use there is > 3' clearance, when the door is swung all the way open the panel is blocked. Could not find any specific wording in the NEC 2005 that addresses this issue. Seems to me to be a definate saftey issue. Any input would be great. This is in a restraunt.
Panel clearance
- Thread starter VIC1958
- Start date
- Status
- Location
- Chapel Hill, NC
- Occupation
- Retired Electrical Contractor
There is nothing in the NEC that prohibts this install. As long as the clearance is there when the door is closed you are good to go.
Jim W in Tampa
Senior Member
- Location
- Tampa Florida
often it's a great spot and very legal. Only part i don't like is if is a door that might get opened while the electrician is working on live panel. Closet door is perfect.
You have to evaluate the situation as used during service.
See 110.26(B)
During SERVICE, the WORKING SPACE MUST BE GUARDED!
This means you must secure that door against accidental opening during service. A lockout should be performed on the door. Then you get to evaluate whether you have the other conditions such as an available egress while locked out.
Guarding the working space during service is frequently overlooked.
See 110.26(B)
During SERVICE, the WORKING SPACE MUST BE GUARDED!
This means you must secure that door against accidental opening during service. A lockout should be performed on the door. Then you get to evaluate whether you have the other conditions such as an available egress while locked out.
Guarding the working space during service is frequently overlooked.
- Location
- Lockport, IL
- Occupation
- Semi-Retired Electrical Engineer
This has been discussed here several times. I believe the most common opinion is that it is legal. I agree with that view. As to guarding the working space, you could always just remove the door. 
This has been discussed here several times. I believe the most common opinion is that it is legal. I agree with that view. As to guarding the working space, you could always just remove the door.
As would chained zombies as well
The OP did ask for any input. I felt I would be remiss if I left it just at panel placement. I think his feeling of an inherent safety issue springs from guarding the workspace. Certainly a service practice issue as opposed to installation.
weressl
Esteemed Member
This has been discussed here several times. I believe the most common opinion is that it is legal. I agree with that view. As to guarding the working space, you could always just remove the door.
It maybe legal but it is just SOOOO wrong. I would hate to stand in that pace, working on live stuff anf have somebody shove me into the live panel with the swinging door. In my many years of design experience I have NEVER allowed this to happen.
- Location
- Chapel Hill, NC
- Occupation
- Retired Electrical Contractor
Perhaps a bigger issue with commercial but it is often seen in residential settings. Lock the door-- I have never heard of anyone getting hurt from this setup.
bluesmoke...oops
Senior Member
- Location
- Tri-Cities, Washington
I try not to do that either in my designs, but sometimes you are forced to.
weressl
Esteemed Member
Whenever an incorporated Company would work on it, it becomes and OSHA issue.
- Status