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Friday, October 11, 2019
Question:
Thanks for providing the service of QCD, I look forward to reading it every morning. Is working space, required by NEC Article 110.26, required for existing service panel locations where the service is subject to being changed or upgraded to a new service panel but the existing locations "work space" has been infringed on over the years by water heaters, softeners, shelving, clothes closets built, etc.? Or does NEC 110.26 simply cover new construction installations?
Thank You, Chris G.
A
Answer:
Hey Chris thanks for your question and we are glad you enjoy CQD. The working space described in 110.26 (based on the edition that was adopted at the time of installation) is required for the existing service equipment - even if it is not being replaced. The violation(s) occurred when the other items were installed but they were probably not there when the service installation was inspected and approved. Other rules allow less working space, under certain conditions, such as 110.26(A)(1)(c) and 110.26(A)(3) Exception 1 but also support the need to provide working space for replacements or upgrades.