We are installing a 2000 amp switchboard in place of a 1200 amp the existing electrical room has 1 door double that swings in, i mentioned to the prime contractor that the doors must swing out with panic free hardware. They said they were going to leave the door just the way it is. This code with panic free hardware could save the lives of my coworkers. If something did happen who would be responsible,the electrical contractor or the prime contractor. Please any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Panic free hardware
- Thread starter butch
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Re: Panic free hardware
Thanks Bennie I think the prime contractor is trying to save a little money , but when lives are at stake thats when our expertise and the NEC come into play to help save lives.There is an article in"Power Outlet" on page132 under comments about this code if you get a chance to read it please do. Thanks again for your advice.
Thanks Bennie I think the prime contractor is trying to save a little money , but when lives are at stake thats when our expertise and the NEC come into play to help save lives.There is an article in"Power Outlet" on page132 under comments about this code if you get a chance to read it please do. Thanks again for your advice.
- Location
- Lockport, IL
- Occupation
- Semi-Retired Electrical Engineer
Re: Panic free hardware
First of all, if the width of the switchboard is less than or equal 6 feet, then you don?t need (i.e., the NEC does not require) the doors to swing out. I will not disagree with you, in that I think it is safer if they do swing out. I am speaking of code requirements. On the other hand, if the switchboard is wider than 6 feet, you have been non-compliant, even with the 1200 amp equipment.
Secondly, you have another issue to deal with (assuming that the board is over 6 feet wide). You need doors at both ends of the room, or you need to qualify under one of the two conditions given by NEC 110.26(C)(2) (a) and (b).
First of all, if the width of the switchboard is less than or equal 6 feet, then you don?t need (i.e., the NEC does not require) the doors to swing out. I will not disagree with you, in that I think it is safer if they do swing out. I am speaking of code requirements. On the other hand, if the switchboard is wider than 6 feet, you have been non-compliant, even with the 1200 amp equipment.
Secondly, you have another issue to deal with (assuming that the board is over 6 feet wide). You need doors at both ends of the room, or you need to qualify under one of the two conditions given by NEC 110.26(C)(2) (a) and (b).
Re: Panic free hardware
Charlie thanks for your professional advice, but what i understand from the article "Entrances to working space large equipment" Section 110.26 c 2 It states "For equipment raated 1200A or more and over 6ft wide personnel doors must open out and be equipped with panic hardwae so as to open without using hands. Thanks again.
Charlie thanks for your professional advice, but what i understand from the article "Entrances to working space large equipment" Section 110.26 c 2 It states "For equipment raated 1200A or more and over 6ft wide personnel doors must open out and be equipped with panic hardwae so as to open without using hands. Thanks again.
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