Code Q&A

July 27, 2007

Can the disconnect switch be located next to equipment installed above an accessible drop ceiling, or must the switch be installed at a readily accessible location?

Mike Holt

Q. Can the disconnect switch be located next to equipment installed above an accessible drop ceiling, or must the switch be installed at a readily accessible location?

A. Yes. Switches and circuit breakers used as switches can be mounted above 6 feet 7 inches, if they are installed next to the equipment they supply and are accessible by portable means [240.24(A)(4) and 404.8(A) Exception No. 2].

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.