404.30 Switch Enclosures with Doors.

Some disconnect switches can be opened with a tool while energized.
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Some disconnect switches can be opened with a tool while energized.

Code Change Summary: New code section to provide additional safety measures for enclosed switches.

Disconnect switches are commonly installed in easily accessible locations to serve HVAC equipment, water heaters, closet air handlers and the like. Many can be easily opened while energized, without tools.

In the 2023 NEC®, a public input was accepted to add new Section 404.30 addressing access to such switches. Now, switch mechanisms mounted inside enclosures with doors that, when opened, expose uninsulated live parts must be constructed so that when the switch is in the closed position (line and load terminals are energized), access to the switch interior is restricted. Access to the switch interior while the switch is in the closed position must require the use of a tool or be of an approved design that provides equivalent protection from access by unqualified persons.

The code panel accepted this change and felt that it is time to consider sunsetting the switch designs that do not have safety features to prohibit unauthorized access.

Note that the new code language does not provide an option for the switch to be “capable of being locked” or “capable of being locked in the open position”. In other areas of the NEC®, equipment may be considered guarded if it is capable of being locked or capable of being locked in the open position. If the plan is to use a switch that is capable of being locked or capable of being locked in the open position to comply with the new code language, be sure to ask the inspector.

Keep in mind that this new requirement is not dependent on how “accessible” or “readily accessible” the switch is.

Similar code language was added in Section 440.11 to directly address the disconnecting means for HVAC equipment, but the language only applies to HVAC equipment disconnecting means in readily accessible locations.

Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.

2020 Code Language:

This code section did not exist.

2023 Code Language:

N 404.30 Switch Enclosures with Doors. Switch mechanisms mounted within enclosures with doors that, when opened, expose uninsulated live parts shall be constructed so that when the switch is in the closed position access to the switch interior is restricted. Access to the interior with the switch in the closed position shall require the use of a tool or an approved design that provides equivalent protection from access by unqualified persons.

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404.30 Switch Enclosures with Doors.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Based on the 2023 NEC, which of the following is true?

A: Switch mechanisms mounted inside enclosures with doors that, when opened, expose uninsulated live parts must be constructed so that when the switch is in the closed position, access to the switch interior is restricted.
B: Access to the switch exterior while the switch is in the open position requires a permit.
C: Access to the switch exterior while the switch is de-energized requires a screwdriver.
D: Enclosed switches are NOT permitted.
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