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Code Q&A: Work Space Requirements for Equipment with Limited Access

June 15, 2017

What are the working space and access requirements in the Code for equipment located above suspended ceilings or in a crawl space?

Mike Holt

Q. What are the working space and access requirements in the Code for equipment located above suspended ceilings or in a crawl space?

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A. These requirements are new to the 2017 NEC.

Where equipment operating at 1,000V or less is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized is located in a space with limited access, all of the following conditions apply [110.26(A)(4)]:

(a) Equipment installed above a suspended ceiling must have an access opening not smaller than 22 in. × 22 in. Equipment installed in a crawl space must have an accessible opening not smaller than 22 in. × 30 in.

(b) The width of the working space must be a minimum of 30 in., but in no case less than the width of the equipment.

(d) The working space in front of the equipment must comply with the depth requirements of Table 110.26(A)(1), the height is what is necessary to install the equipment. Horizontal ceiling structural members are permitted in this space.

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About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.