What is the required clearance in front of switchboards installed facing each other?

The requirement for clearance in front of switchboards installed facing each other is determined by safety regulations and is primarily intended to ensure that personnel can safely operate equipment and perform maintenance without the risk of injury or difficulty accessing the apparatus.

In New York City, as outlined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local amendments, the acceptable clearance in front of switchboards facing each other must be a minimum of 7 feet. This distance allows for safe access to both switchboards and facilitates adequate working space around electrical equipment. It is also important to maintain this clearance to comply with safety standards that prevent electrical hazards.

The significance of this requirement is emphasized in operational scenarios where technicians or electricians may need to work on one or both switchboards simultaneously. A minimum clearance of 7 feet ensures that there is enough room to maneuver safely and reduces the likelihood of accidents related to electrical work. Thus, this dimension is crucial for maintaining standards of safety in electrical installations.