Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
This is a sticky question, and I am on the fence with the last answer “Disconnect is just fine” … unless I am missing something and that disconnect really isn’t rated for outdoor use.
Model codes like the IRC and NEC only require an AC disconnect to be readily accessible and within sight of the equipment. "Readily accessible" means capable of being reached quickly without having to move things, climb over, or use ladders. It doesn't appear that the working space requirements would apply either since someone wouldn't be expected to work on that switch while energized. Hmmmmmm.
Also, the pad does appear to be above grade if ya look at the left rear side ... it must be an optical delusion ... 
-- Robert O'Connor, PE
Eagle Engineering ?
Eagle Eye Inspections ?
NACHI Education Committee
I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong
Originally Posted By: Bob Badger This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
roconnor wrote:
It doesn't appear that the working space requirements would apply either since someone wouldn't be expected to work on that switch while energized. Hmmmmmm.
That gets to the heart of the matter, you will find strong feelings on both sides of the 110.26 working space issue in regards to disconnect switches.
Given this example there was no reason not to locate the disconnect off to the side.
Forgetting about 110.26 I feel this disconnect is readily accessible.
Originally Posted By: Bob Badger This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Joe the readily accessible requirement is a separate issue than working space required by 110.26.
Quote:
Accessible, Readily (Readily Accessible). Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, and so forth.
The disconnect in the picture can be reached without climbing or removing obstacles.
Leaning / reaching is not climbing.
I stand by my statement that the disconnect is readily accessible.
It does not have the workspace 110.26 describes, however the inspector can certainly decide the disconnect does not need servicing while energized.
Originally Posted By: gbeaumont This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Jeff wrote:
So what's the answer Gerry?
How should I know  when I wrote the question I was thinking of it along the lines of Joe T's explaination, but it seems that that is somewhat interperative.
Originally Posted By: Blaine Wiley This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Tell me I’m wrong as an HI, not as a code enforcement guru.
I would not write up that disconnect as inaccessible, because it can easily be reached from either side of the condenser unit. Assuming that it is rated for outdoor exposure, I don't see a safety issue or other issue as an HI to write up.   
Originally Posted By: Bob Badger This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
The additional pictures are different situations each one needs it own evaluation.
Your original picture most likely did pass inspection. It looks like it is outside a hotel, very unlikely it was not inspected.
The picture of the panels above the water cooler would fail for work space violations, I do not know any inspectors that would say panels do not need servicing while energized. So 110.26 could be cited.
The picture of the disconnect behind the pipe is not readily accessible you would have to move the pipe to access the disconnect, a clear violation of the readily accessible requirement.
I would call for a final inspection with that disconnect in the opening post located right where it is. If I was an HI I would say it is fine, but of course it is subjective and another person might say a work space violation. I do not agree that this switch is not readily accessible, leaning and reaching are part of operating any switch.
I do not spend all my time on the internet,  I am out there getting inspections and I have never been failed.
Originally Posted By: Bob Badger This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
For anyone that is interested you can follow the link to see this issue get batted around by other electricians and inspectors.
Some feel like I do and others feel like Joe does, it is not a clear cut subject. You can each make up your own mind. 
