1910.303(g)(1): “Space about electric equipment. Sufficient access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electric equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.”
1910.303(g)(1)(i): “Working space for equipment likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized shall comply with the following dimensions, except as required or permitted elsewhere in this subpart:…”
I have always been taught that main electrical disconnects (circuit breakers, knife switches, LOTO Points) must be kept clear according to Table S-1, etc., for many reasons (Electricians need to have maintenance access, you don’t want to have obstructions if you need to access the disconnect in an emergency, you need to be able to stand to the left side of the panel while throwing the breaker, you don’t want a forklift to hit the panel, etc.). I recently came across a situation where a colleague suggested that as long as they are not working on the equipment while energized, 1910.303 (g)(1) does not apply. I question this interpretation.
What about troubleshooting? We don’t require our people to perform LOTO prior to troubleshooting. Do you need clearance for troubleshooting?
What about an emergency when you need to throw the breaker? Do you need adequate clearance to access the emergency disconnect?
If the energy comes into the breaker box from the buss way (even after you’ve thrown the disconnect), do you need the clearance required by Table S-1 based on your proximity to the energy in the conduit from the buss to the breaker box? I would be interested to know how you guys interpret and apply this regulation in your facilities. Are there other codes/standards that would help to reinforce my argument, or is he correct in his interpretation?
MY RESPONSE…