110.32 Workspace About Equipment.
Code Change Summary: Revision to the code language for working space for electrical equipment rated over 1000 volts.
In the 2020 NEC®, the language in 110.32 for working space about electrical equipment rated over 1000 volts was revised to align with similar requirements in Section 110.26 for installations rated 1000 volts or less.
The previous code language allowed for the working space to be either 6 ½ feet high or no less than 3 feet wide. This was much less stringent than similar language for installations less than 1000 volts which requires the minimum clear working space to be no less than 6 ½ feet high and the width of the equipment or 3 feet wide, whichever is greater.
In addition, language was added in 110.32 regarding the installation of other equipment within the height requirements of the working space which aligns with working space for equipment rated 1000 volts or less in Section 110.26.
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 2020 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.
2017 Code Language:
110.32 Work Space About Equipment. Sufficient space shall be provided and maintained about electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment. Where energized parts are exposed, the minimum clear work space shall be not less than 2.0 m (6 ½ ft) high (measured vertically from the floor or platform) or not less than 914 mm (3 ft) wide (measured parallel to the equipment). The depth shall be as required in 110.34(A). In all cases, the work space shall permit at least a 90 degree opening of doors or hinged panels.
2020 Code Language:
110.32 Work Space About Equipment. Sufficient space shall be provided and maintained about electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment. Where energized parts are exposed, the minimum clear work space shall be not less than 2.0 m (6 ½ ft) high (measured vertically from the floor or platform) and the width of the equipment or 914 mm (3 ft) wide (measured parallel to the equipment), whichever is greater. The depth shall be as required in 110.34(A). In all cases, the work space shall permit at least a 90-degree opening of doors or hinged panels.
Within the height requirements of this section, other equipment that is associated with the electrical installation and is located above or below the electrical equipment shall be permitted to extend not more than 150 mm (6 in.) beyond the front of the electrical equipment. Working space required by this section shall not be used for storage. When normally enclosed live parts are exposed for inspection or servicing, the working space, if in a passageway or general open space, shall be suitably guarded.