---
aliases:
  - nec-110
tags:
  - authorship/other
  - destiny/uncertain
  - exclude-from-word-count
  - status/draft
  - topic/construction/electrical
  - type/media/reference
title: Article 110 Requirements for Electrical Installations
---
# Article 110 Requirements for Electrical Installations

## Part I. General ^p1

### 110.1 Scope. ^1

This article covers general requirements
for the examination and approval, installation and use,
access to and spaces about electrical conductors and equipment;
enclosures intended for personnel entry;
and tunnel installations.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See Informative Annex J for information regarding ADA accessibility design.

### 110.2 Approval. ^2

The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this Code shall be acceptable only if approved.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See 90.7, Examination of Equipment for Safety,
> and 110.3, Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment.
> See definitions of Approved, Identified, Labeled, and Listed.

### 110.3 Examination, Identification, Installation, Use, and Listing (Product Certification) of Equipment. ^3

#### 110.3(A) Examination. ^3a

In judging equipment, considerations such as the following shall be evaluated:

* (1) Suitability for installation and use in conformity with this Code

    > [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
    > Equipment may be new, reconditioned, refurbished, or remanufactured.

    > [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
    > Suitability of equipment use may be identified by a description marked on or provided with a product to identify the suitability of the product for a specific purpose, environment, or application. Special conditions of use or other limitations and other pertinent information may be marked on the equipment, included in the product instructions, or included in the appropriate listing and labeling information. Suitability of equipment may be evidenced by listing or labeling.

* (2) Mechanical strength and durability, including, for parts designed to enclose and protect other equipment, the adequacy of the protection thus provided

* (3) Wire-bending and connection space

* (4) Electrical insulation

* (5) Heating effects under normal conditions of use and also under abnormal conditions likely to arise in service

* (6) Arcing effects

* (7) Classification by type, size, voltage, current capacity, and specific use

* (8) Other factors that contribute to the practical safeguarding of persons using or likely to come in contact with the equipment

#### 110.3(B) Installation and Use. ^3b

Equipment that is listed, labeled, or both shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling.

#### 110.3(C) Listing. ^3c

Product testing, evaluation, and listing (product certification) shall be performed by recognized qualified electrical testing laboratories and shall be in accordance with applicable product standards recognized as achieving equivalent and effective safety for equipment installed to comply with this Code.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes qualified electrical testing laboratories that perform evaluations, testing, and certification of certain products to ensure that they meet the requirements of both the construction and general industry OSHA electrical standards. If the listing (product certification) is done under a qualified electrical testing laboratory program, this listing mark signifies that the tested and certified product complies with the requirements of one or more appropriate product safety test standards.

### 110.4 Voltages. ^4

Throughout this Code, the voltage considered shall be that at which the circuit operates. The voltage rating of electrical equipment shall not be less than the nominal voltage of a circuit to which it is connected.

### 110.5 Conductors. ^5

Conductors used to carry current shall be of copper, aluminum, or copper-clad aluminum unless otherwise provided in this Code.

Where the conductor material is not specified, the sizes given in this Code shall apply to copper conductors. Where other materials are used, the size shall be changed accordingly.

### 110.6 Conductor Sizes. ^6

Conductor sizes are expressed in American Wire Gage (AWG) or in circular mils.

### 110.7 Wiring Integrity. ^7

Completed wiring installations shall be free from short circuits, ground faults, or any connections to ground other than as required or permitted elsewhere in this Code.

### 110.8 Wiring Methods ^8

Only wiring methods recognized as suitable
are included in this Code.
The recognized methods of wiring
shall be permitted to be installed
in any type of building or occupancy,
except as otherwise provided in this Code.

### 110.9 Interrupting Rating. ^9

Equipment intended to interrupt current at fault levels shall have an interrupting rating at nominal circuit voltage at least equal to the current that is available at the line terminals of the equipment.

Equipment intended to interrupt current at other than fault levels shall have an interrupting rating at nominal circuit voltage at least equal to the current that must be interrupted.

### 110.10 Circuit Impedance, Short-Circuit Current Ratings, and Other Characteristics. ^10

The overcurrent protective devices, the total impedance, the equipment short-circuit current ratings, and other characteristics of the circuit to be protected shall be selected and coordinated to permit the circuit protective devices used to clear a fault to do so without extensive damage to the electrical equipment of the circuit. This fault shall be assumed to be either between two or more of the circuit conductors or between any circuit conductor and the equipment grounding conductor(s) permitted in 250.118. Listed equipment applied in accordance with their listing shall be considered to meet the requirements of this section.

### 110.11 Deteriorating Agents.

Unless identified for use in the operating environment, no conductors or equipment shall be located in damp or wet locations; where exposed to gases, fumes, vapors, liquids, or other agents that have a deteriorating effect on the conductors or equipment; or where exposed to excessive temperatures.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> See 300.6 for protection against corrosion.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> Some cleaning and lubricating compounds can cause severe deterioration of many plastic materials used for insulating and structural applications in equipment.

Equipment not identified for outdoor use and equipment identified only for indoor use, such as "dry locations," "indoor use only," "damp locations," or enclosure Types 1, 2, 5, 12, 12K, and/or 13, shall be protected against damage from the weather during construction.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> See Table 110.28 for appropriate enclosure-type designations.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 4:
> Minimum flood provisions are provided in NFPA 5000-2015 Building Construction and Safety Code,
> the International Building Code (IBC),
> and the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (IRC).

### 110.12 Mechanical Execution of Work.

Electrical equipment shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> Accepted industry practices are described in ANSI/NECA 1-2015, Standard for Good Workmanship in Electrical Construction, and other ANSI-approved installation standards.

#### 110.12(A) Unused Openings.

Unused openings, other than those intended for the operation of equipment, those intended for mounting purposes, or those permitted as part of the design for listed equipment, shall be closed to afford protection substantially equivalent to the wall of the equipment.

Where metallic plugs or plates are used with nonmetallic enclosures, they shall be recessed at least 6 mm (1/4 in.) from the outer surface of the enclosure.

#### 110.12(B) Integrity of Electrical Equipment and Connections.

Internal parts of electrical equipment, including busbars, wiring terminals, insulators, and other surfaces, shall not be damaged or contaminated by foreign materials such as paint, plaster, cleaners, abrasives, or corrosive residues. There shall be no damaged parts that may adversely affect safe operation or mechanical strength of the equipment such as parts that are broken; bent; cut; or deteriorated by corrosion, chemical action, or overheating.

#### 110.12(C) Cables and Conductors.

Cables and conductors installed exposed on the surfaces of ceilings and sidewalls shall be supported by the building structure in such a manner that the cables and conductors will not be damaged by normal building use. Such cables and conductors shall be secured by hardware including straps, staples, cable ties, hangers, or similar fittings designed and installed so as not to damage the cable. The installation shall also conform with 300.4 and 300.11. Nonmetallic cable ties and other nonmetallic cable accessories used to secure and support cables in other spaces used for environmental air (plenums) shall be listed as having low smoke and heat release properties.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> Accepted industry practices are described in ANSI/NECA/FOA 301-2009, Standard for Installing and Testing Fiber Optic Cables, and other ANSI-approved installation standards.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> See 4.3.11.2.6.5 and 4.3.11.5.5.6 of NFPA 90A-2018, Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, for discrete combustible components installed in accordance with 300.22(C).

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> Paint, plaster, cleaners, abrasives, corrosive residues, or other contaminants may result in an undetermined alteration of optical fiber cable properties.

### 110.13 Mounting and Cooling of Equipment.

#### 110.13(A) Mounting.

Electrical equipment shall be firmly secured to the surface on which it is mounted. Wooden plugs driven into holes in masonry, concrete, plaster, or similar materials shall not be used.

#### 110.13(B) Cooling.

Electrical equipment that depends on the natural circulation of air and convection principles for cooling of exposed surfaces shall be installed so that room airflow over such surfaces is not prevented by walls or by adjacent installed equipment. For equipment designed for floor mounting, clearance between top surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be provided to dissipate rising warm air.

Electrical equipment provided with ventilating openings shall be installed so that walls or other obstructions do not prevent the free circulation of air through the equipment.

### 110.14 Electrical Connections.

Because of different characteristics of dissimilar metals,
devices such as pressure terminal
or pressure splicing connectors and soldering lugs
shall be identified for the material of the conductor
and shall be properly installed and used.
Conductors of dissimilar metals
shall not be intermixed in a terminal or splicing connector
where physical contact occurs between dissimilar conductors
(such as copper and aluminum or aluminum and copper-clad aluminum),
unless the device is identified for the purpose and conditions of use.
Materials such as solder, fluxes, inhibitors, and compounds,
where employed, shall be suitable for the use
and shall be of a type that will not adversely affect
the conductors, installation, or equipment.
Connectors and terminals for conductors more finely stranded
than Class B and Class C stranding as shown in Chapter 9, Table 10,
shall be identified for the specific conductor class or classes.

#### 110.14(C) Temperature Limitations.

The temperature rating associated with the ampacity of a conductor
shall be selected and coordinated so as not to exceed the lowest
temperature rating of any connected termination, conductor, or device.
Conductors with temperature ratings higher than specified for
terminations shall be permitted to be used
for ampacity adjustment, correction, or both.

##### 110.14(C)(1) Equipment Provisions.

The determination of termination provisions of equipment
shall be based on 110.14(C)(1)(a) or (C)(1)(b).
Unless the equipment is listed and marked otherwise,
conductor ampacities used in determining equipment termination provisions
shall be based on Table 310.16 as appropriately modified by 310.12.

* (a) Termination provisions of equipment for circuits rated 100 amperes or less,
    or marked for 14 AWG through 1 AWG conductors,
    shall be used only for one of the following:

    * (1) Conductors rated 60°C (140°F).

    * (2) Conductors with higher temperature ratings,
      provided the ampacity of such conductors
      is determined based on the 60°C (140°F) ampacity of the conductor size used.

    * (3) Conductors with higher temperature ratings
      if the equipment is listed and identified for use with such conductors.

    * (4) For motors marked with design letters B, C, or D,
      conductors having an insulation rating of 75°C (167°F) or higher
      shall be permitted to be used,
      provided the ampacity of such conductors
      does not exceed the 75°C (167°F) ampacity.

* (b) Termination provisions of equipment
  for circuits rated over 100 amperes,
  or marked for conductors larger than 1 AWG,
  shall be used only for one of the following:

    * (1) Conductors rated 75°C (167°F)

    * (2) Conductors with higher temperature ratings,
      provided the ampacity of such conductors
      does not exceed the 75°C (167°F) ampacity of the conductor size used,
      or up to their ampacity if the equipment is listed and identified
      for use with such conductors

##### 110.14(C)(2) Separate Connector Provisions.

Separately installed pressure connectors shall be used with conductors at the ampacities not exceeding the ampacity at the listed and identified temperature rating of the connector.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> With respect to 110.14(C)(1) and (C)(2),
> equipment markings or listing information may additionally restrict
> the sizing and temperature ratings of connected conductors.

#### 110.14(D) Terminal Connection Torque.

Tightening torque values for terminal connections
shall be as indicated on equipment
or in installation instructions provided by the manufacturer.
An approved means shall be used to achieve the indicated torque value.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> Examples of approved means of achieving the indicated torque values
> include torque tools or devices such as shear bolts
> or breakaway-style devices with visual indicators
> that demonstrate that the proper torque has been applied.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> The equipment manufacturer can be contacted
> if numeric torque values are not indicated on the equipment
> or if the installation instructions are not available.
> Informative Annex I of UL Standard 486A-486B, Standard for Safety-Wire Connectors,
> provides torque values in the absence of manufacturer's recommendations.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> Additional information for torquing threaded connections and terminations
> can be found in Section 8.11 of NFPA 70B-2019, Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance.

### 110.15 High-Leg Marking.

On a 4-wire, delta-connected system where the midpoint of one phase winding is grounded, only the conductor or busbar having the higher phase voltage to ground shall be durably and permanently marked by an outer finish that is orange in color or by other effective means. Such identification shall be placed at each point on the system where a connection is made if the grounded conductor is also present.

### 110.16 Arc-Flash Hazard Warning.

#### 110.16(A) General.

Electrical equipment, such as switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures, and motor control centers, that is in other than dwelling units, and is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized, shall be field or factory marked to warn qualified persons of potential electric arc flash hazards. The marking shall meet the requirements in 110.21(B) and shall be located so as to be clearly visible to qualified persons before examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance of the equipment.

#### 110.16(B) Service Equipment.

In other than dwelling units, in addition to the requirements in 110.16(A), a permanent label shall be field or factory applied to service equipment rated 1200 amps or more. The label shall meet the requirements of 110.21(B) and contain the following information:

* (1) Nominal system voltage

* (2) Available fault current at the service overcurrent protective devices

* (3) The clearing time of service overcurrent protective devices based on the available fault current at the service equipment

* (4) The date the label was applied

> [!important] Exception:
> Service equipment labeling shall not be required if an arc flash label is applied in accordance with acceptable industry practice.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> NFPA 70E-2018, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, provides guidance, such as determining severity of potential exposure, planning safe work practices, arc flash labeling, and selecting personal protective equipment.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> ANSI Z535.4-2011, Product Safety Signs and Labels, provides guidelines for the design of safety signs and labels for application to products.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> Acceptable industry practices for equipment labeling are described in NFPA 70E-2018, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. This standard provides specific criteria for developing arc-flash labels for equipment that provides nominal system voltage, incident energy levels, arc-flash boundaries, minimum required levels of personal protective equipment, and so forth.

### 110.18 Arcing Parts.

Parts of electrical equipment that in ordinary operation produce arcs, sparks, flames, or molten metal shall be enclosed or separated and isolated from all combustible material.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> For hazardous (classified) locations, see Articles 500 through 517. For motors, see 430.14.

### 110.19 Light and Power from Railway Conductors.

Circuits for lighting and power shall not be connected to any system that contains trolley wires with a ground return.

> [!important] Exception:
> Such circuit connections shall be permitted in car houses, power houses, or passenger and freight stations operated in connection with electric railways.

### 110.21 Marking.

#### 110.21(A) Equipment Markings.

##### 110.21(A)(1) General.

The manufacturer's name, trademark, or other descriptive marking by which the organization responsible for the product can be identified shall be placed on all electrical equipment. Other markings that indicate voltage, current, wattage, or other ratings shall be provided as specified elsewhere in this Code. The marking or label shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.

##### 110.21(A)(2) Reconditioned Equipment.

Reconditioned equipment shall be marked with the name, trademark, or other descriptive marking by which the organization responsible for reconditioning the electrical equipment can be identified, along with the date of the reconditioning.

Reconditioned equipment shall be identified as "reconditioned" and the original listing mark removed. Approval of the reconditioned equipment shall not be based solely on the equi pment's original listing.

> [!important] Exception:
> In industrial occupancies, where conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the equipment, the markings indicated in 110.21(A)(2) shall not be required for equipment that is reconditioned by the owner or operator as part of a regular equipment maintenance program.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> Industry standards are available for application of reconditioned and refurbished equipment.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> The term reconditioned may be interchangeable with the terms rebuilt, refurbished, or remanufactured.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> The original listing mark may include the mark of the certifying body and not the entire equipment label.

#### 110.21(B) Field-Applied Hazard Markings.

Where caution, warning, or danger signs or labels are required by this Code, the labels shall meet the following requirements:

* (1) The marking shall warn of the hazards
    using effective words, colors, symbols, or any combination thereof.

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > ANSI Z535.4-2011, Product Safety Signs and Labels, provides guidelines for suitable font sizes, words, colors, symbols, and location requirements for labels.

* (2) The label shall be permanently affixed to the equipment or wiring method and shall not be handwritten.

    > [!important] Exception to (2):
    > Portions of labels or markings that are variable,
    > or that could be subject to changes,
    > shall be permitted to be handwritten and shall be legible.

* (3) The label shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > ANSI Z535.4-2011, Product Safety Signs and Labels, provides guidelines for the design and durability of safety signs and labels for application to electrical equipment.

### 110.22 Identification of Disconnecting Means.

#### 110.22(A) General.

Each disconnecting means shall be legibly marked to indicate its purpose unless located and arranged so the purpose is evident. In other than one- or two-family dwellings, the marking shall include the identification of the circuit source that supplies the disconnecting means. The marking shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.

#### 110.22(B) Engineered Series Combination Systems.

Equipment enclosures for circuit breakers or fuses applied in compliance with series combination ratings selected under engineering supervision in accordance with 240.86(A) shall be legibly marked in the field as directed by the engineer to indicate the equipment has been applied with a series combination rating. The marking shall meet the requirements in 110.21(B) and shall be readily visible and state the following:

```
CAUTION --- ENGINEERED SERIES COMBINATION SYSTEM RATED _______ AMPERES.
IDENTIFIED REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS REQUIRED.
```

#### 110.22(C) Tested Series Combination Systems.

Equipment enclosures for circuit breakers or fuses applied in compliance with the series combination ratings marked on the equipment by the manufacturer in accordance with 240.86(B) shall be legibly marked in the field to indicate the equipment has been applied with a series combination rating. The marking shall meet the requirements in 110.21(B) and shall be readily visible and state the following:

```
CAUTION --- SERIES COMBINATION SYSTEM RATED ____ AMPERES.
IDENTIFIED REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS REQUIRED.
```

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See IEEE 3004.5-2014 Recommended Practice for the Application of Low-Voltage Circuit Breakers in Industrial and Commercial Power Systems, for further information on series tested systems.

### 110.23 Current Transformers.

Unused current transformers associated with potentially energized circuits shall be short-circuited.

### 110.24 Available Fault Current.

#### 110.24(A) Field Marking.

Service equipment at other than dwelling units shall be legibly marked in the field with the available fault current. The field marking(s) shall include the date the fault-current calculation was performed and be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.

The calculation shall be documented and made available to those authorized to design, install, inspect, maintain, or operate the system.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> The available fault-current marking(s) addressed in 110.24 is related to required short-circuit current and interrupting ratings of equipment. NFPA 70E-2018, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, provides assistance in determining the severity of potential exposure, planning safe work practices, and selecting personal protective equipment.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> Values of available fault current for use in determining appropriate minimum short-circuit current and interrupting ratings of service equipment are available from electric utilities in published or other forms.

#### 110.24(B) Modifications.

When modifications to the electrical installation occur that affect the available fault current at the service, the available fault current shall be verified or recalculated as necessary to ensure the service equipment ratings are sufficient for the available fault current at the line terminals of the equipment. The required field marking(s) in 110.24(A) shall be adjusted to reflect the new level of available fault current.

> [!important] Exception:
> The field marking requirements in 110.24(A) and 110.24(B) shall not be required in industrial installations where conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the equipment.

### 110.25 Lockable Disconnecting Means.

If a disconnecting means is required to be lockable open elsewhere in this Code, it shall be capable of being locked in the open position. The provisions for locking shall remain in place with or without the lock installed.

> [!important] Exception:
> Locking provisions for a cord-and-plug connection shall not be required to remain in place without the lock installed.

## Part II. 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less

### 110.26 Spaces About Electrical Equipment.

Access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electrical equipment
to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.

#### 110.26(A) Working Space.

Working space for equipment operating at 1000 volts, nominal, or less to ground
and likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized
shall comply with the dimensions of 110.26(A)(1), (A)(2), (A)(3), and (A)(4)
or as required or permitted elsewhere in this Code.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> NFPA 70E-2018, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace,
> provides guidance, such as determining severity of potential exposure,
> planning safe work practices including establishing an electrically safe work condition,
> arc flash labeling, and selecting personal protective equipment.

### 110.26(A)(1) Depth of Working Space.

The depth of the working space in the direction of live parts
shall not be less than that specified in Table 110.26(A)(1) unless the
requirements of 110.26(A)(1)(a), (A)(1)(b), or (A)(1)(c) are met.
Distances shall be measured from the exposed live parts
or from the enclosure or opening if the live parts are enclosed.

### Table 110.26(A)(1) Working Spaces

| Nominal Voltage to Ground | Condition   | Minimum Clear Distance |
| ------------------------- | ----------- | ---------------------- |
| 0--150                    | Condition 1 | 900 mm (3 ft)          |
| 0--150                    | Condition 2 | 900 mm (3 ft)          |
| 0--150                    | Condition 3 | 900 mm (3 ft)          |
| 151--600                  | Condition 1 | 900 mm (3 ft)          |
| 151--600                  | Condition 2 | 1.0 m (3 ft 6 in.)     |
| 151--600                  | Condition 3 | 1.2 m (4 ft)           |
| 601--1000                 | Condition 1 | 900 mm (3 ft)          |
| 601--1000                 | Condition 2 | 1.2 m (4 ft)           |
| 601--1000                 | Condition 3 | 1.5 m (5 ft)           |

Note: Where the conditions are as follows:

* Condition 1 --- Exposed live parts on one side of the working space
  and no live or grounded parts on the other side of the working space,
  or exposed live parts on both sides of the working space
  that are effectively guarded by insulating materials.

* Condition 2 --- Exposed live parts on one side of the working space
  and grounded parts on the other side of the working space.
  Concrete, brick, or tile walls shall be considered as grounded.

* Condition 3 --- Exposed live parts on both sides of the working space.

(a) _Dead-Front Assemblies._
Working space shall not be required in the back or sides of assemblies, such as dead-front switchboards, switchgear, or motor control centers, where all connections and all renewable or adjustable parts, such as fuses or switches, are accessible from locations other than the back or sides. Where rear access is required to work on nonelectrical parts on the back of enclosed equipment, a minimum horizontal working space of 762 mm (30 in.) shall be provided.

(b) _Low Voltage._
By special permission, smaller working spaces shall be permitted where all exposed live parts operate at not greater than 30 volts rms, 42 volts peak, or 60 volts dc.

##### 110.26(A)(2) Width of Working Space.

The width of the working space in front of the electrical equipment shall be the width of the equipment or 762 mm (30 in.), whichever is greater. In all cases, the work space shall permit at least a 90 degree opening of equipment doors or hinged panels.

##### 110.26(A)(3) Height of Working Space.

The work space shall be clear and extend from the grade, floor, or platform to a height of 2.0 m (61/2 ft) or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater. Within the height requirements of this section, other equipment or support structures, such as concrete pads, associated with the electrical installation and 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.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> On battery systems mounted on open racks, the top clearance shall comply with 480.10(D).

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> In existing dwelling units, service equipment or panelboards that do not exceed 200 amperes shall be permitted in spaces where the height of the working space is less than 2.0 m (61/2 ft).

> [!important] Exception No. 3:
> Meters that are installed in meter sockets shall be permitted to extend beyond the other equipment. The meter socket shall be required to follow the rules of this section.

##### 110.26(A)(4) Limited Access.

Where equipment operating at 1000 volts, nominal, or less to ground and likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized is required by installation instructions or function to be located in a space with limited access, all of the following shall apply:

* (1) Where equipment is installed above a lay-in ceiling,
    there shall be an opening not smaller than 559 mm × 559 mm (22 in. × 22 in.),
    or in a crawl space,
    there shall be an accessible opening not smaller than 559 mm × 762 mm (22 in. × 30 in.).

* (2) The width of the working space
    shall be the width of the equipment enclosure or a minimum of 762 mm (30 in.),
    whichever is greater.

* (3) All enclosure doors or hinged panels
    shall be capable of opening a minimum of 90 degrees.

* (4) The space in front of the enclosure shall comply with the depth requirements of Table 110.26(A)(1). The maximum height of the working space shall be the height necessary to install the equipment in the limited space. A horizontal ceiling structural member or access panel shall be permitted in this space.

##### 110.26(A)(5) Separation from High-Voltage Equipment.

Where switches, cutouts, or other equipment operating at 1000 volts, nominal, or less are installed in a vault, room, or enclosure where there are exposed live parts or exposed wiring operating over 1000 volts, nominal, the high-voltage equipment shall be effectively separated from the space occupied by the low-voltage equipment by a suitable partition, fence, or screen.

#### 110.26(B) Clear Spaces.

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.

#### 110.26(C) Entrance to and Egress from Working Space.

##### 110.26(C)(1) Minimum Required.

At least one entrance of sufficient area shall be provided to give access to and egress from working space about electrical equipment.

##### 110.26(C)(2) Large Equipment.

For large equipment that contains overcurrent devices, switching devices, or control devices, there shall be one entrance to and egress from the required working space not less than 610 mm (24 in.) wide and 2.0 m (61/2 ft) high at each end of the working space. This requirement shall apply to either of the following conditions:

* (1) For equipment rated 1200 amperes or more and over 1.8 m (6 ft) wide

* (2) For service disconnecting means installed in accordance with 230.71 where the combined ampere rating is 1200 amperes or more and over 1.8 m (6 ft) wide

Open equipment doors shall not impede the entry to or egress from the working space.

A single entrance to and egress from the required working space shall be permitted where either of the conditions in 110.26(C)(2)(a) or (C)(2)(b) is met.

* (a) Unobstructed Egress. Where the location permits a continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel, a single entrance to the working space shall be permitted.

* (b) Extra Working Space. Where the depth of the working space is twice that required by 110.26(A)(1), a single entrance shall be permitted. It shall be located such that the distance from the equipment to the nearest edge of the entrance is not less than the minimum clear distance specified in Table 110.26(A)(1) for equipment operating at that voltage and in that condition.

#### 110.26(C)(3) Personnel Doors.

Where equipment rated 800 amperes or more that contains overcurrent devices,
switching devices, or control devices is installed
and there is a personnel door(s) intended for entrance to and egress from the working space
less than 7.6 m (25 ft) from the nearest edge of the working space,
the door(s) shall open in the direction of egress
and be equipped with listed panic hardware or listed fire exit hardware.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> For information on panic hardware, see UL 305, Standard For Safety For Panic Hardware.
> For fire exit hardware, see UL 305, Standard For Panic Hardware,
> and UL 10C, Standard for Safety for Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies.

#### 110.26(D) Illumination.

Illumination shall be provided for all working spaces about service equipment,
switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, or motor control centers installed indoors.
Control by automatic means shall not be permitted
to control all illumination within the working space.
Additional lighting outlets shall not be required
where the work space is illuminated by an adjacent light source
or as permitted by 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, for switched receptacles.

#### 110.26(E) Dedicated Equipment Space.

All switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, and motor control centers
shall be located in dedicated spaces and protected from damage.

> [!important] Exception
> Control equipment that by its very nature
> or because of other rules of the Code
> must be adjacent to or within sight of its operating machinery
> shall be permitted in those locations.

#### 110.26(E)(1) Indoor.

Indoor installations shall comply with 110.26(E)(1)(a) through (E)(1)(d).

* (a) _Dedicated Electrical Space._
  The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment
  and extending from the floor to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment
  or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower,
  shall be dedicated to the electrical installation.
  No piping, ducts, leak protection apparatus,
  or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation
  shall be located in this zone.

  > [!important] Exception
  > Suspended ceilings with removable panels shall be permitted within the 1.8 m (6-ft) zone.

* (b) _Foreign Systems._
  The area above the dedicated space required by 110.26(E)(1)(a)
  shall be permitted to contain foreign systems,
  provided protection is installed to avoid damage to the electrical equipment
  from condensation, leaks, or breaks in such foreign systems.

* (c) _Sprinkler Protection._
  Sprinkler protection shall be permitted for the dedicated space where the piping complies with this section.

* (d) _Suspended Ceilings._
  A dropped, suspended, or similar ceiling that does not add strength to the building structure shall not be considered a structural ceiling.

#### 110.26(E)(2) Outdoor.

Outdoor installations shall comply with 110.26(E)(2)(a) through (E)(2)(c).

* (a) Installation Requirements. Outdoor electrical equipment shall be the following:

  1. Installed in identified enclosures
  2. Protected from accidental contact by unauthorized personnel or by vehicular traffic
  3. Protected from accidental spillage or leakage from piping systems

* (b) Work Space. The working clearance space shall include the zone described in 110.26(A). No architectural appurtenance or other equipment shall be located in this zone.

* (c) Dedicated Equipment Space. The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment, and extending from grade to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment, shall be dedicated to the electrical installation. No piping or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation shall be located in this zone.

  Exception: Structural overhangs or roof extensions shall be permitted in this zone.

#### 110.26(F) Locked Electrical Equipment Rooms or Enclosures.

Electrical equipment rooms or enclosures housing electrical apparatus that are controlled by a lock(s) shall be considered accessible to qualified persons.

### 110.27 Guarding of Live Parts.

#### 110.27(A) Live Parts Guarded Against Accidental Contact.

Except as elsewhere required or permitted by this Code, live parts of electrical equipment operating at 50 to 1000 volts, nominal shall be guarded against accidental contact by approved enclosures or by any of the following means:

* (1) By location in a room, vault, or similar enclosure that is accessible only to qualified persons.

* (2) By permanent, substantial partitions or screens arranged so that only qualified persons have access to the space within reach of the live parts. Any openings in such partitions or screens shall be sized and located so that persons are not likely to come into accidental contact with the live parts or to bring conducting objects into contact with them.

* (3) By location on a balcony, gallery, or platform elevated and arranged so as to exclude unqualified persons.

* (4) By elevation above the floor or other working surface as follows:
    * a. A minimum of 2.5 m (8 ft) for 50 volts to 300 volts between ungrounded conductors
    * b. A minimum of 2.6 m (8 ft 6 in.) for 301 volts to 600 volts between ungrounded conductors
    * c. A minimum of 2.62 m (8 ft 7 in.) for 601 volts to 1000 volts between ungrounded conductors

#### 110.27(B) Prevent Physical Damage.

In locations where electrical equipment is likely to be exposed to physical damage, enclosures or guards shall be so arranged and of such strength as to prevent such damage.

#### 110.27(C) Warning Signs.

Entrances to rooms and other guarded locations that contain exposed live parts shall be marked with conspicuous warning signs forbidding unqualified persons to enter. The marking shall meet the requirements in 110.21(B).

> [!info] Informational Note:
> For motors, see 430.232 and 430.233. For over 1000 volts, see 110.34.

### 110.28 Enclosure Types.

Enclosures (other than surrounding fences or walls covered in 110.31) of switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, industrial control panels, motor control centers, meter sockets, enclosed switches, transfer switches, power outlets, circuit breakers, adjustable-speed drive systems, pullout switches, portable power distribution equipment, termination boxes, general-purpose transformers, fire pump controllers, fire pump motors, and motor controllers, rated not over 1000 volts nominal and intended for such locations, shall be marked with an enclosure-type number as shown in Table 110.28.

Table 110.28 shall be used for selecting these enclosures for use in specific locations other than hazardous (classified) locations. The enclosures are not intended to protect against conditions such as condensation, icing, corrosion, or contamination that may occur within the enclosure or enter via the raceway or unsealed openings.

#### Table 110.28 Enclosure Selection

For Outdoor Use

| Provides a Degree of Protection Against the Following Environmental Conditions | 3   | 3R  | 3S  | 3X  | 3RX | 3SX | 4   | 4X  | 6   | 6P  |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Incidental contact with the enclosed equipment                                 | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Rain, snow, and sleet                                                          | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Sleet*                                                                         | --- | --- | X   | --- | --- | X   | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Windblown dust                                                                 | X   | --- | X   | X   | --- | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Hosedown                                                                       | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Corrosive agents                                                               | --- | --- | --- | X   | X   | X   | --- | X   | --- | X   |
| Temporary submersion                                                           | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   | X   |
| Prolonged submersion                                                           | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   |

\*Mechanism shall be operable when ice covered.

For Indoor Use

| Provides a Degree of Protection Against the Following Environmental Conditions | 1   | 2   | 4   | 4X  | 5   | 6   | 6P  | 12  | 12K | 13  |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Incidental contact with the enclosed equipment                                 | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Falling dirt                                                                   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Falling liquids and light splashing                                            | --- | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Circulating dust, lint, fibers, and flyings                                    | --- | --- | X   | X   | --- | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Settling airborne dust, lint, fibers, and flyings                              | --- | --- | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   | X   |
| Hosedown and splashing water                                                   | --- | --- | X   | X   | --- | X   | X   | --- | --- | --- |
| Oil and coolant seepage                                                        | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   | X   | X   |
| Oil or coolant spraying and splashing                                          | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   |
| Corrosive agents                                                               | --- | --- | --- | X   | --- | --- | X   | --- | --- | --- |
| Temporary submersion                                                           | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   | X   | --- | --- | --- |
| Prolonged submersion                                                           | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | X   | --- | --- | --- |

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> The term _raintight_ is typically used
> in conjunction with Enclosure Types 3, 3S, 3SX, 3X, 4, 4X, 6, and 6P.
> The term _rainproof_ is typically used
> in conjunction with Enclosure Types 3R and 3RX.
> The term _watertight_ is typically used
> in conjunction with Enclosure Types 4, 4X, 6, and 6P.
> The term _driptight_ is typically used
> in conjunction with Enclosure Types 2, 5, 12, 12K, and 13.
> The term _dusttight_ is typically used
> in conjunction with Enclosure Types 3, 3S, 3SX, 3X, 4, 4X, 5, 6, 6P, 12, 12K, and 13.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> Ingress protection (IP) ratings may be found in ANSI/IEC 60529,
> Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures.
> IP ratings are not a substitute for Enclosure Type ratings.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> Dusttight enclosures are suitable for use in hazardous locations
> in accordance with 502.10(B)(4), 503.10(A)(2), and 506.15(C)(9).

> [!info] Informational Note No. 4:
> Dusttight enclosures are suitable for use in unclassified locations
> and in Class II, Division 2; Class III;
> and Zone 22 hazardous (classified) locations.

## Part III. Over 1000 Volts, Nominal

### 110.30 General.

Conductors and equipment used on circuits over 1000 volts, nominal, shall comply with Part I of this article and with 110.30 through 110.41, which supplement or modify Part I.
In no case shall this part apply to equipment on the supply side of the service point.

### 110.31 Enclosure for Electrical Installations.

Electrical installations in a vault, room, or closet or in an area surrounded by a wall, screen, or fence, access to which is controlled by a lock(s) or other approved means, shall be considered to be accessible to qualified persons only. The type of enclosure used in a given case shall be designed and constructed according to the nature and degree of the hazard(s) associated with the installation.

For installations other than equipment as described in 110.31(D), a wall, screen, or fence shall be used to enclose an outdoor electrical installation to deter access by persons who are not qualified. A fence shall not be less than 2.1 m (7 ft) in height or a combination of
1.8 m (6 ft) or more of fence fabric and a 300 mm (1 ft) or more extension utilizing three or more strands of barbed wire or equivalent.

The distance from the fence to live parts shall be not less than given in Table 110.31.

Table 110.31 Minimum Distance from Fence to Live Parts

| Nominal Voltage | Minimum Distance to Live Parts |
|:---------------:|:------------------------------:|
|  1001--13,799   |         3.05 m (10 ft)         |
| 13,800--230,000 |         4.57 m (15 ft)         |
|  Over 230,000   |         5.49 m (18 ft)         |

Note: For clearances of conductors for specific system voltages and typical BIL ratings,
see ANSI/IEEE C2-2017, National Electrical Safety Code.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See Article 450 for construction requirements for transformer vaults.

#### 110.31(A) Electrical Vaults.

Where an electrical vault is required or specified
for conductors and equipment
110.31(A)(1) to (A)(5) shall apply.

##### 110.31(A)(1) Walls and Roof.

The walls and roof shall be constructed of materials that have adequate structural strength for the conditions, with a minimum fire rating of 3 hours. For the purpose of this section, studs and wallboard construction shall not be permitted.

##### 110.31(A)(2) Floors.

The floors of vaults in contact with the earth shall be of concrete that is not less than 102 mm (4 in.) thick, but where the vault is constructed with a vacant space or other stories below it, the floor shall have adequate structural strength for the load imposed on it and a minimum fire resistance of 3 hours.

##### 110.31(A)(3) Doors.

Each doorway leading into a vault from the building interior
shall be provided with a tight-fitting door that has a minimum fire rating of 3 hours.
The authority having jurisdiction
shall be permitted to require such a door for an exterior wall opening where conditions warrant.

> [!important] Exception to (1), (2), and (3):
> Where the vault is protected with automatic sprinkler,
> water spray, carbon dioxide, or halon,
> construction with a 1-hour rating shall be permitted.

##### 110.31(A)(4) Locks.

Doors shall be equipped with locks, and doors shall be kept locked, with access allowed only to qualified persons. Personnel doors shall open in the direction of egress and be equipped with listed panic hardware or listed fire exit hardware.

##### 110.31(A)(5) Transformers.

Where a transformer is installed in a vault as required by Article 450, the vault shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of Part III of Article 450.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> For additional information, see ANSI/ASTM E119-2018a,
> Method for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials,
> and NFPA 80-2019, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> A typical 3-hour construction is 150 mm (6 in.) thick reinforced concrete.

#### 110.31(B) Indoor Installations.

##### 110.31(B)(1) In Places Accessible to Unqualified Persons.

Indoor electrical installations that are accessible to unqualified persons shall be made with metal-enclosed equipment. Switchgear, transformers, pull boxes, connection boxes, and other similar associated equipment shall be marked with appropriate caution signs.

Openings in ventilated dry-type transformers or similar openings in other equipment shall be designed so that foreign objects inserted through these openings are deflected from energized parts.

##### 110.31(B)(2) In Places Accessible to Qualified Persons Only.

Indoor electrical installations considered accessible only to qualified persons in accordance with this section shall comply with 110.34, 110.36, and 490.24.

#### 110.31(C) Outdoor Installations.

##### 110.31(C)(1) In Places Accessible to Unqualified Persons.

Outdoor electrical installations that are open to unqualified persons shall comply with Parts I, II, and III of Article 225.

##### 110.31(C)(2) In Places Accessible to Qualified Persons Only.

Outdoor electrical installations that have exposed live parts shall be accessible to qualified persons only in accordance with the first paragraph of this section and shall comply with 110.34, 110.36, and 490.24.

#### 110.31(D) Enclosed Equipment Accessible to Unqualified Persons.

Ventilating or similar openings in equipment shall be designed such that foreign objects inserted through these openings are deflected from energized parts. Where exposed to physical damage from vehicular traffic, suitable guards shall be provided. Equipment located outdoors and accessible to unqualified persons shall be designed such that exposed nuts or bolts cannot be readily removed, permitting access to live parts. Where equipment is accessible to unqualified persons and the bottom of the enclosure is less than
2.5 m (8 ft) above the floor or grade level, the enclosure door or hinged cover shall be kept locked. Doors and covers of enclosures used solely as pull boxes, splice boxes, or junction boxes shall be locked, bolted, or screwed on. Underground box covers that weigh over 45.4 kg (100 lb) shall be considered as meeting this requirement.

### 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 (61/2 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 90degree 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.

### 110.33 Entrance to Enclosures and Access to Working Space.

#### 110.33(A) Entrance.

At least one entrance to enclosures for electrical installations as described in 110.31
not less than 610 mm (24 in.) wide and 2.0 m (6 1/2 ft) high
shall be provided to give access to the working space about electrical equipment.

##### 110.33(A)(1) Large Equipment.

On switchgear and control panels exceeding 1.8 m (6 ft) in width,
there shall be one entrance at each end of the equipment.
A single entrance to the required working space
shall be permitted where either of the conditions in 110.33(A)(1)(a) or (A)(1)(b) is met.

* (a) Unobstructed Exit.
    Where the location permits a continuous and unobstructed way of exit travel, a single entrance to the working space shall be permitted.

* (b) Extra Working Space.
    Where the depth of the working space is twice that required by 110.34(A),
    a single entrance shall be permitted.
    It shall be located so that the distance from the equipment
    to the nearest edge of the entrance
    is not less than the minimum clear distance specified in Table 110.34(A)
    for equipment operating at that voltage and in that condition.

##### 110.33(A)(2) Guarding.

Where bare energized parts at any voltage or insulated energized parts above 1000 volts, nominal, are located adjacent to such entrance, they shall be suitably guarded.

##### 110.33(A)(3) Personnel Doors.

Where there are personnel doors intended for entrance to and egress from the working space less than 7.6 m (25 ft) from the nearest edge of the working space, the doors shall open in the direction of egress and be equipped with listed panic hardware or listed fire exit hardware.

#### 110.33(B) Access.

Permanent ladders or stairways shall be provided to give safe access to the working space around electrical equipment installed on platforms, balconies, or mezzanine floors or in attic or roof rooms or spaces.

### 110.34 Work Space and Guarding.

#### 110.34(A) Working Space.

Except as elsewhere required or permitted in this Code, equipment likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized shall have clear working space in the direction of access to live parts of the electrical equipment and shall be not less than specified in Table 110.34(A). Distances shall be measured from the live parts, if such are exposed, or from the enclosure front or opening if such are enclosed.

> [!important] Exception:
> Working space shall not be required in back of equipment such as switchgear or control assemblies where there are no renewable or adjustable parts (such as fuses or switches) on the back and where all connections are accessible from locations other than the back. Where rear access is required to work on nonelectrical parts on the back of enclosed equipment, a minimum working space of 762 mm (30 in.) horizontally shall be provided.

##### Table 110.34(A) Minimum Depth of Clear Working Space at Electrical Equipment

| Nominal Voltage to Ground | Condition   | Minimum Clear Distance |
|:-------------------------:| ----------- |:----------------------:|
|       1001--2500 V        | Condition 1 |     900 mm (3 ft)      |
|       1001--2500 V        | Condition 2 |      1.2 m (4 ft)      |
|       1001--2500 V        | Condition 3 |      1.5 m (5 ft)      |
|       2501--9000 V        | Condition 1 |      1.2 m (4 ft)      |
|       2501--9000 V        | Condition 2 |      1.5 m (5 ft)      |
|       2501--9000 V        | Condition 3 |      1.8 m (6 ft)      |
|      9001--25,000 V       | Condition 1 |      1.5 m (5 ft)      |
|      9001--25,000 V       | Condition 2 |      1.8 m (6 ft)      |
|      9001--25,000 V       | Condition 3 |      2.8 m (9 ft)      |
|      25,001 V--75 kV      | Condition 1 |      1.8 m (6 ft)      |
|      25,001 V--75 kV      | Condition 2 |      2.5 m (8 ft)      |
|      25,001 V--75 kV      | Condition 3 |     3.0 m (10 ft)      |
|        Above 75 kV        | Condition 1 |      2.5 m (8 ft)      |
|        Above 75 kV        | Condition 2 |     3.0 m (10 ft)      |
|        Above 75 kV        | Condition 3 |     3.7 m (12 ft)      |

Note:
Where the conditions are as follows:

* (1) **Condition 1** ---
    Exposed live parts on one side of the working space and no live or grounded parts on the other side of the working space, or exposed live parts on both sides of the working space that are effectively guarded by insulating materials.

* (2) **Condition 2** ---
    Exposed live parts on one side of the working space and grounded parts on the other side of the working space. Concrete, brick, or tile walls shall be considered as grounded.

* (3) **Condition 3** ---
    Exposed live parts on both sides of the working space.

#### 110.34(B) Separation from Low-Voltage Equipment.

Where switches, cutouts, or other equipment operating at 1000 volts, nominal, or less are installed in a vault, room, or enclosure where there are exposed live parts or exposed wiring operating at over 1000 volts, nominal, the high-voltage equipment shall be effectively separated from the space occupied by the low-voltage equipment by a suitable partition, fence, or screen.

> [!important] Exception:
> Switches or other equipment operating at 1000 volts, nominal, or less and serving only equipment within the high-voltage vault, room, or enclosure shall be permitted to be installed in the high-voltage vault, room, or enclosure without a partition, fence, or screen if accessible to qualified persons only.

#### 110.34(C) Locked Rooms or Enclosures.

The entrance to all buildings, vaults, rooms, or enclosures containing exposed live parts or exposed conductors operating at over
1000 volts, nominal, shall be kept locked unless such entrances are under the observation of a qualified person at all times.

Permanent and conspicuous danger signs shall be provided. The danger sign shall meet the requirements in 110.21(B) and shall read as follows:

DANGER --- HIGH VOLTAGE --- KEEP OUT

#### 110.34(D) Illumination.

Illumination shall be provided for all working spaces about electrical equipment. Control by automatic means only shall not be permitted.

The lighting outlets shall be arranged so that persons changing lamps or making repairs on the lighting system are not endangered by live parts or other equipment.

The points of control shall be located so that persons are not likely to come in contact with any live part or moving part of the equipment while turning on the lights.

#### 110.34(E) Elevation of Unguarded Live Parts.

Unguarded live parts above working space shall be maintained at elevations not less than required by Table 110.34(E).

Table 110.34(E) Elevation of Unguarded Live Parts Above Working Space

| Nominal Voltage Between Phases | Elevation         |
| ------------------------------ | ----------------- |
| 1001--7500 V                   | 2.7m (9 ft)       | 
| 7501--35,000 V                 | 2.9m (9 ft 6 in.) |

Over 35 kV Add 9.5 mm per kV above 35 kV

Add 0.37 in. per kV above 35 kV

#### 110.34(F) Protection of Service Equipment, Switchgear, and Industrial Control Assemblies.

Pipes or ducts foreign to the electrical installation and requiring periodic maintenance or whose malfunction would endanger the operation of the electrical system shall not be located in the vicinity of the service equipment, switchgear, or industrial control assemblies. Protection shall be provided where necessary to avoid damage from condensation leaks and breaks in such foreign systems. Piping and other facilities shall not be considered foreign if provided for fire protection of the electrical installation.

### 110.36 Circuit Conductors.

Circuit conductors shall be permitted to be installed in raceways; in cable trays; as metal-clad cable Type MC; as bare wire, cable, and busbars; or as Type MV cables or conductors as provided in 300.37, 300.39, 300.40, and 300.50. Bare live conductors shall comply with 490.24.

Insulators, together with their mounting and conductor attachments, where used as supports for wires, single-conductor cables, or busbars, shall be capable of safely withstanding the maximum magnetic forces that would prevail if two or more conductors of a circuit were subjected to short-circuit current.

Exposed runs of insulated wires and cables that have a bare lead sheath or a braided outer covering shall be supported in a manner designed to prevent physical damage to the braid or sheath. Supports for lead-covered cables shall be designed to prevent electrolysis of the sheath.

### 110.40 Temperature Limitations at Terminations.

Conductors shall be permitted to be terminated based on the 90°C (194°F) temperature rating and ampacity as given in Table
311.60(C)(67) through Table 311.60(C)(86), unless otherwise identified.

### 110.41 Inspections and Tests.

#### 110.41(A) Pre-energization and Operating Tests.

Where required elsewhere in this Code, the complete electrical system design, including settings for protective, switching, and control circuits, shall be prepared in advance and made available on request to the authority having jurisdiction and shall be tested when first installed on-site.

#### 110.41(B) Test Report.

A test report covering the results of the tests required in 110.41(A) shall be available to the authority having jurisdiction prior to energization and made available to those authorized to install, operate, test, and maintain the system.

## Part IV. Tunnel Installations over 1000 Volts, Nominal

### 110.51 General.

#### 110.51(A) Covered.

This part shall apply to the installation and use of high-voltage power distribution and utilization equipment that is portable, mobile, or both, such as substations, trailers, cars, mobile shovels, draglines, hoists, drills, dredges, compressors, pumps, conveyors, underground excavators, and the like.

#### 110.51(B) Other Articles.

The requirements of this part shall be additional to, or amendatory of, those prescribed in Articles 100 through 490 of this Code.

#### 110.51(C) Protection Against Physical Damage.

Conductors and cables in tunnels shall be located above the tunnel floor and so placed or guarded to protect them from physical damage.

### 110.52 Overcurrent Protection.

Motor-operated equipment shall be protected from overcurrent in accordance with Parts III, IV, and V of Article 430. Transformers shall be protected from overcurrent in accordance with 450.3.

### 110.53 Conductors.

High-voltage conductors in tunnels shall be installed in metal conduit or other metal raceway, Type MC cable, or other approved multiconductor cable. Multiconductor portable cable shall be permitted to supply mobile equipment.

### 110.54 Bonding and Equipment Grounding Conductors.

#### 110.54(A) Grounded and Bonded.

All non--current-carrying metal parts of electrical equipment and all metal raceways and cable sheaths shall be solidly grounded and bonded to all metal pipes and rails at the portal and at intervals not exceeding 300 m (1000 ft) throughout the tunnel.

#### 110.54(B) Equipment Grounding Conductors.

An equipment grounding conductor shall be run with circuit conductors inside the metal raceway or inside the multiconductor cable jacket. The equipment grounding conductor shall be permitted to be insulated or bare.

### 110.55 Transformers, Switches, and Electrical Equipment.

All transformers, switches, motor controllers, motors, rectifiers, and other equipment installed belowground shall be protected from physical damage by location or guarding.

### 110.56 Energized Parts.

Bare terminals of transformers, switches, motor controllers, and other equipment shall be enclosed to prevent accidental contact with energized parts.

### 110.57 Ventilation System Controls.

Electrical controls for the ventilation system shall be arranged so that the airflow can be reversed.

### 110.58 Disconnecting Means.

A switch or circuit breaker that simultaneously opens all ungrounded conductors of the circuit shall be installed within sight of each transformer or motor location for disconnecting the transformer or motor. The switch or circuit breaker for a transformer shall have an ampere rating not less than the ampacity of the transformer supply conductors. The switch or circuit breaker for a motor shall comply with the applicable requirements of Article 430.

### 110.59 Enclosures.

Enclosures for use in tunnels shall be dripproof, weatherproof, or submersible as required by the environmental conditions. Switch or contactor enclosures shall not be used as junction boxes or as raceways for conductors feeding through or tapping off to other switches, unless the enclosures comply with 312.8.

## Part V. Manholes and Other Electrical Enclosures Intended for Personnel Entry

### 110.70 General.

Electrical enclosures intended for personnel entry and specifically fabricated for this purpose shall be of sufficient size to provide safe work space about electrical equipment with live parts that is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized. Such enclosures shall have sufficient size to permit ready installation or withdrawal of the conductors employed without damage to the conductors or to their insulation. They shall comply with this part.

> [!important] Exception:
> Where electrical enclosures covered by Part V of this article are part of an industrial wiring system operating under conditions of maintenance and supervision that ensure that only qualified persons monitor and supervise the system, they shall be permitted to be designed and installed in accordance with appropriate engineering practice. If required by the authority having jurisdiction, design documentation shall be provided.

### 110.71 Strength.

Manholes, vaults, and their means of access shall be designed under qualified engineering supervision and shall withstand all loads likely to be imposed on the structures.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See ANSI C2-2007, National Electrical Safety Code, for additional information on the loading that can be expected to bear on underground enclosures.

### 110.72 Cabling Work Space.

A clear work space not less than 900 mm (3 ft) wide shall be provided where cables are located on both sides, and not less than
750 mm (21/2 ft) where cables are only on one side. The vertical headroom shall be not less than 1.8 m (6 ft) unless the opening is within 300 mm (1 ft), measured horizontally, of the adjacent interior side wall of the enclosure.

> [!important] Exception:
> A manhole containing only one or more of the following shall be permitted to have one of the horizontal work space dimensions reduced to 600 mm (2 ft) where the other horizontal clear work space is increased so the sum of the two dimensions is not less than 1.8 m (6 ft):

* (1) Optical fiber cables as covered in Article 770

* (2) Power-limited fire alarm circuits supplied in accordance with 760.121

* (3) Class 2 or Class 3 remote-control and signaling circuits, or both, supplied in accordance with 725.121

### 110.73 Equipment Work Space.

Where electrical equipment with live parts that is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized is installed in a manhole, vault, or other enclosure designed for personnel access, the work space and associated requirements in 110.26 shall be met for installations operating at 1000 volts or less. Where the installation is over 1000 volts, the work space and associated requirements in 110.34 shall be met. A manhole access cover that weighs over 45.4 kg (100 lb) shall be considered as meeting the requirements of 110.34(C).

### 110.74 Conductor Installation.

Conductors installed in manholes and other enclosures intended for personnel entry shall be cabled, racked up, or arranged in an approved manner that provides ready and safe access for persons to enter for installation and maintenance. The installation shall comply with 110.74(A) or 110.74(B), as applicable.

#### 110.74(A) 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less.

Wire bending space for conductors operating at 1000 volts or less shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of 314.28.

#### 110.74(B) Over 1000 Volts, Nominal.

Conductors operating at over 1000 volts shall be provided with bending space in accordance with 314.71(A) and (B), as applicable.

> [!important] Exception:
> Where 314.71(B) applies, each row or column of ducts on one wall of the enclosure shall be calculated individually, and the single row or column that provides the maximum distance shall be used.

### 110.75 Access to Manholes.

#### 110.75(A) Dimensions.

Rectangular access openings shall not be less than 650 mm × 550 mm (26 in. × 22 in.). Round access openings in a manhole shall be not less than 650 mm (26 in.) in diameter.

> [!important] Exception:
> A manhole that has a fixed ladder that does not obstruct the opening or that contains only one or more of the following shall be permitted to reduce the minimum cover diameter to 600 mm (2 ft):

* (1) Optical fiber cables as covered in Article 770

* (2) Power-limited fire alarm circuits supplied in accordance with 760.121

* (3) Class 2 or Class 3 remote-control and signaling circuits, or both, supplied in accordance with 725.121

#### 110.75(B) Obstructions.

Manhole openings shall be free of protrusions that could injure personnel or prevent ready egress.

#### 110.75(C) Location.

Manhole openings for personnel shall be located where they are not directly above electrical equipment or conductors in the enclosure.

Where this is not practicable, either a protective barrier or a fixed ladder shall be provided.

#### 110.75(D) Covers.

Covers shall be over 45 kg (100 lb) or otherwise designed to require the use of tools to open. They shall be designed or restrained so they cannot fall into the manhole or protrude sufficiently to contact electrical conductors or equipment within the manhole.

#### 110.75(E) Marking.

Manhole covers shall have an identifying mark or logo that prominently indicates their function, such as "electric."

### 110.76 Access to Vaults and Tunnels.

#### 110.76(A) Location.

Access openings for personnel shall be located where they are not directly above electrical equipment or conductors in the enclosure.

Other openings shall be permitted over equipment to facilitate installation, maintenance, or replacement of equipment.

#### 110.76(B) Locks.

In addition to compliance with the requirements of 110.34, if applicable, access openings for personnel shall be arranged such that a person on the inside can exit when the access door is locked from the outside, or in the case of normally locking by padlock, the locking arrangement shall be such that the padlock can be closed on the locking system to prevent locking from the outside.

### 110.77 Ventilation.

Where manholes, tunnels, and vaults have communicating openings into enclosed areas used by the public, ventilation to open air shall be provided wherever practicable.

### 110.78 Guarding.

Where conductors or equipment, or both, could be contacted by objects falling or being pushed through a ventilating grating, both conductors and live parts shall be protected in accordance with the requirements of 110.27(A)(2) or 110.31(B)(1), depending on the voltage.

### 110.79 Fixed Ladders.

Fixed ladders shall be corrosion resistant.

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