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#111119 09/04/06 05:58 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,445
Likes: 2
Cat Servant
Member
A customer has opined that this room meets working space requirements because everything is on wheels.
Now, keep in mind that these cabinets are HEAVY, the carpeting thick (it's almost impossible to move the battery packs), and that numerous cables are tied to the overhead rack.

Behind this stuff is the main panel for one of the UPS-protected circuits (look behind the loop of orange cord), and the transfer switches for two UPS systems.

The item with the duct is a "portable" air conditioner. This is in addition to a dedicated air conditioner and transformer above the ceiling.

[Linked Image]


[This message has been edited by renosteinke (edited 09-04-2006).]

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#111120 09/04/06 06:24 PM
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 4,391
I
Moderator
Quote
110.26 Spaces About Electrical Equipment.
Sufficient access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electric equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.......

Quote
110.26(B)(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.


Bob Badger
Construction & Maintenance Electrician
Massachusetts
#111121 09/04/06 07:10 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,445
Likes: 2
Cat Servant
Member
The "maintained" issue is a bit fuzzy- IF the stuff easily rolled aside! Then, it MIGHT be no worse than having to open a door.

As for "storage," the most immobile units- the two battery banks you see right next to that air conditioner- are tied into the transfer switches on the wall behind them. FWIW, the lines to and from those battery banks go up int tohe ceiling, and then back down, not across the space.

The same cannot be said for the computer racks (mostly out of the frame). Thos have cords that plug directly into receptacles on the wall. At least most of these are located just under the cable rack.

#111122 09/04/06 07:38 PM
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 4,391
I
Moderator
IMO wheels or not items are being stored in the work space.

Would I bust the customers chops over it?

Nope.

Would I tell them they have a violation?

Yes.

Many commercial location paint out the work space on the floor to indicate no storage.

They also install these signs.

[Linked Image from bradyid.com]


Bob Badger
Construction & Maintenance Electrician
Massachusetts
#111123 09/06/06 01:13 AM
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 144
N
Member
Holy cow! Those are some really big UPS units. This wouldn't pass in the area i'm from. Just think, would you be able to get to the panels in a hurry during an emergency?


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