National Electrical Code (NEC) Requirements for Industrial Laundry FacilitiesArticle 500 - Hazardous (Classified) Locations Industrial laundry facilities may be classified as Class II, Division 1 or Division 2 hazardous (classified) locations due to the presence of flammable vapors or combustible dust. Specific wiring methods, equipment, and safeguards are required for electrical installations in these hazardous areas.

Article 517 - Industrial Machinery Covers the electrical requirements for industrial machinery, including laundry machines. Specifies wiring methods, control devices, and disconnect means for laundry equipment.

General Lighting Requirements Illuminance Levels

Proper lighting is essential for safe and efficient operation. Recommended illuminance levels vary depending on the specific work area, but should be adequate for tasks such as sorting, loading, and unloading.

Emergency Lighting

Emergency lighting is required to provide illumination during power outages. It should be powered by a separate source and meet the requirements of Article 700 of the NEC.

Power Distribution Electrical Service

The electrical service must be sized adequately to meet the demand of the laundry equipment and other electrical loads.

Branch Circuits

Separate branch circuits should be dedicated to laundry machines and other high-power equipment.

Overcurrent Protection

Overcurrent protective devices, such as circuit breakers or fuses, must be installed to prevent electrical fires and equipment damage.

Isolation and Disconnect Means Isolation Switches

Disconnect switches are required for laundry machines and other electrical equipment to isolate them from the power source for maintenance and repairs.

Lockout/Tagout Procedures

Lockout/tagout procedures should be established to prevent accidental re-energization of equipment during servicing.

Specific Equipment Requirements Washers

Electrical wiring, switches, and controls must be designed to withstand the harsh conditions of a laundry environment with frequent water exposure.

Dryers

Dryers must be equipped with temperature limit switches and other safety features to prevent overheating.

Conveyors

Electrical controls and drive systems for conveyors must be designed to ensure safe and reliable operation.

Additional Considerations Grounding

Proper grounding is essential for safety and to protect equipment from electrical shock.

Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is required to remove flammable vapors and heat generated by laundry equipment.

Dust Control

Measures should be taken to control combustible dust generated by laundry operations.

Training: Personnel working in the laundry facility should be trained on the electrical hazards and safety precautions. Flag for review