User: mshields, Location: Boston, MA
Asked on: Saturday, March 19, 2011 at 1:33 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:01 am EDT
Question: I'm a little confused by this change to the NEC in 2011. It appears that a remote disconnect switch(es) is something that you may provide in addition to the disconnecting means required at the exits from the room. Is that accurate? Or is it the intent that remote disconnecting means may be provided in lieu of those troublesome EPO's at the exit from the room in order that there be less chance of an accidental shut down?Thanks,Mike
The NEC requires that you provide a disconnecting means at the exit from the room where the generator is located and may also be provided remotely. The intent is to provide a means of quickly disconnecting the generator from the electrical system in the event of an emergency. This is important because generators can be a source of electrical hazards, such as fires and shocks. By providing a disconnecting means, you can quickly isolate the generator from the electrical system and prevent these hazards from occurring.The NEC does not require that you provide remote disconnecting means in lieu of those at the exit from the room. However, providing remote disconnecting means can be a good way to reduce the risk of accidental shutdowns. This is because remote disconnecting means can be located in a safe location away from the generator. This makes it less likely that someone will accidentally bump into the disconnecting means and shut down the generator.Here is a summary of the NEC requirements for disconnecting means for generators: A disconnecting means must be provided at the exit from the room where the generator is located. A disconnecting means may also be provided remotely. The disconnecting means must be capable of disconnecting all ungrounded conductors. The disconnecting means must be rated for the maximum current that the generator can produce.I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Flag for review