ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Disconnecting Means vs Lock out

In a residentual single family dwelling with a (whirlpool/shower/steamroom) enclosure,this is a single combination use module. The whirlpool portion is supplyed by 2 20amp GFCI circuits (both circuits controlled by dead front GFCI devices located near the tub inclosure, the load side being terminated in single 20 amp recepticals to be cord connected to each the pump and inline heater).The steam generator is located in the basement 15 feet from the main service panel (within direct site), this is a 2 pole 20 amp circuit. The steam generator has a built in GFCI control (first one i've ever seen). The question is...Is it permissible to install merely a breaker Lock or would one need to adhear to the code more rigidly and install a disconnecting means(other than the breaker itself)?

For which component?

the steam generator, the whirlpool portion has already met code requirements.

A Breaker Handle Lock would seem to be the minimum to get by.

With a 15 foot separation in the basement between steam generator and breaker, I wonder what the long term possibility is for a partition wall being built that breaks line of sight?

Setting a double pole 20 A snap switch at the steam generator would probably be a more conservative approach.

Al

Dublin,

Hello, Welcome to ECN
Wouldn't the situation that you already have be code compliant?

Bill

Whoops!

That was a red monkey (don't think of one!).

Dublin. . .the steam generator is probably only resistive heating of a vessel, no motor, so no local in sight disconnect is required. The branch circuit over current protective device is all the disconnect needed.

Coffee, please.

Thanks ElectricAl kinda the direction I wasleaning towards. The local informed the contractor that he believed the steam generator would require a disconnect, I wasn't able to confirm a definate code requirement so was about to suggest to the local to allow a breaker lock as this is a common practice in the area for (Well pumps,Ovens and cooktops{not cord and plug connected},subpanels in other areas of the home, and other hardwired appliances and motor loads). I've always felt the ability to lockout such items puts everyone in a much safer working inviroment.

Thanks All for the welcome.