What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

[davedottcom]

Is there a Maximum circuit breaker Heigth in a dwelling?

I tried to sneak this question into a "Panel heigth" thread that was originally posted months ago but I think it should be it's own.

404.8A SWITCHES ONLY talks about circuit breakers that are "used as switches" must be no higher than 6'7" off the floor. I dont think in a normal dwelling the circuit breakers are used as switches...(Maybe in a Model Home?)so...

240.24 (A) states Overcurrent devices must be "Readily Accessible"... ok...so...

100 Definitions Readily Accessible: Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, and so forth.

I have a hard time imagining there isn't a set maximum heigth but I can't find one!

A little help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!
Dave

 

[charlie]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

We fixed that in the 2005 Code in Article 240. You are correct in the 2002 Code.

 

[davedottcom]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

I'm right!?!?!
There is no Max. heigth as of 2002?


I don't have my 2005 book yet...what will it be?

Thanks,

Dave

 

[physis]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

Your AHJ will put a hight on readily accessible.

 

[davedottcom]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

Actually, Florida is a Unified building code state. All AHJ's and EC's have to follow the Florida building code. And when you look in the Florida Building code for Electrical it just says. "See NEC 2002"

 

[hurk27]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

Wouldn't 408.2 apply?

408.2 Other Articles.
Switches, circuit breakers, and overcurrent devices used on switchboards, panelboards, and distribution boards, and their enclosures, shall comply with this article and also with the requirements of Articles 240, 250, 312, 314, 404 , and other articles that apply. Switchboards and panelboards in hazardous (classified) locations shall comply with the requirements of Articles 500 through 517.

 

[physis]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

All AHJ's and EC's have to follow the Florida building code. And when you look in the Florida Building code for Electrical it just says. "See NEC 2002"

I've always thought that would be great but suddenly I'm not so sure.

 

[charlie]

Re: What is the Maximum OCP Heigth in a dwelling?

From the 2005 NEC:

240.24 Location in or on Premises. (A) Accessibility. Overcurrent devices shall be readily accessible and shall be installed so that the center of the grip of the operating handle of the switch or circuit breaker, when in its highest position, is not more than 2.0 m (6 ft 7 in.) above the floor or working platform unless one of the following applies:

This is followed with items (1) through (4) for busways, supplementary OC devices, sections 225.40 & 230.92, and OC devices adjacent to equipment.