NEC Interpretation

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC) 110.26(A), electrical equipment shall be installed in a way that prevents physical damage, including damage from moving objects.

Protection from Rolling Carts

While the NEC does not specify a minimum distance for protection from rolling carts, it requires that the protection be adequate to prevent damage to the equipment. A 6-inch angle iron installed at the foot of the panel may not provide sufficient protection if the carts are particularly heavy or moving at high speeds.

Additional Considerations



Wall Protection

The angle iron will only protect the panelboards themselves, not the wall behind them. If the wall is also at risk of damage, additional protection may be necessary.

Dedicated Working Space

The 6-inch angle iron may not be enough to prevent carts from entering the dedicated working space in front of the panelboards. This could pose a safety hazard and interfere with electrical work.

Accessibility

The angle iron should not impede access to the panelboards for maintenance or operation.

Recommended Solution:

To ensure adequate protection from rolling carts while maintaining accessibility and wall integrity, consider the following solution: Install a 12-inch or 18-inch angle iron on the floor, at least 36 inches away from the plane of the front panel. Secure the angle iron firmly to the floor and any supporting walls. Paint the angle iron a high-visibility color to alert cart operators of the potential hazard.This solution should provide sufficient protection against accidental contact with rolling carts while meeting the requirements of NEC 110.26(A). Flag for review