FWIW department-
All equipment covered in article 680 with the exception of lighting is required to have a "disconnecting means"
This disconnecting means must be within sight of it's equipment. (visible from it's equipment and not more than 50 feet away) I would not approve an air switch or a keypad as that disconnecting means no more than I would accept a stop/start station as a disconnect for a motor. As for the spa with the disconnect switch under the skirt of the spa where the motor/pump/etc is located I think it certainly qualifies as within 50 feet of it's quipment and visible. As for the 5' thingee in 680.22(C), I can say that the skirt with a removable panel provides the required barrier.
Hey! I can have my opinion.
For those inspectors that can't buy this - are you having the contractors remove this factory installed disconnect that's under the skirt of the spa??
This installation would not need an "Emergency Switch" if it were installed in a residential setting.
[This message has been edited by George Little (edited 09-27-2006).]
