Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: jmgreer, Location: northeast arkansas
Asked on: Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 8:39 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:31 am EDT
Question: can someone tell me where to go in the code where it says a panelboard cannot be placed within 6ft vertically of a attic acess? i have a attic acess in the hallway. the print shows a panelboard in a bedroom that shares a wall with the hallway wall. the inspecter says that the homerun wiring will be to close to the attic acess when the installation is complete. i have not even started pulling wire. i would just like to know where he got this. thanks for any replys.
National Electrical Code (NEC)Article 110.26 (A) Attic Access Panel Clearances"Where an attic access panel is located in a ceiling, the opening shall be not less than 22½ inches (572 mm) wide and 30 inches (762 mm) high."Article 408.3(C) Placement of Overcurrent Devices"Electrical equipment shall not be installed in attic spaces or under floor structures where there is insulation or other combustible material above such equipment unless the equipment is approved for such locations."Interpretation
These NEC requirements do not explicitly prohibit the placement of a panelboard within 6 feet vertically of an attic access panel. However, the intent of these codes is to ensure that attic access panels are accessible for inspection, maintenance, and fire safety purposes.In your case, the inspector may be concerned that the homerun wiring from the panelboard to the attic access panel could obstruct the accessibility of the attic access panel or pose a safety hazard if the insulation or other combustible material above the panelboard caught fire.
Recommended Action
To address the inspector's concerns, consider the following options:
Relocate the panelboard
Move the panelboard to a location that is further away from the attic access panel.
Install a removable panel in the attic access panel
This would allow access to the homerun wiring without having to remove the entire attic access panel.*
Protect the homerun wiring: Run the homerun wiring through a conduit or sleeve to protect it from damage or contact with combustible materials.By taking these steps, you can ensure that your electrical installation complies with the NEC requirements and addresses the inspector's concerns. Flag for review