Code Quiz of Day

Working Space Requirements for Electric Sign Equipment

June 17, 2015

A working space not less than 3 ft high by 3 ft wide by ______ deep is required for each ballast, transformer, electronic power supply, and Class 2 power source where not installed in a sign.

Mike Holt

A working space not less than 3 ft high by 3 ft wide by ______ deep is required for each ballast, transformer, electronic power supply, and Class 2 power source where not installed in a sign.

a) 2 ft
b) 3 ft
c) 4 ft
d) 6 ft

See answer and applicable Code reference

The correct answer is: b) 3 ft

Article 600 covers the installation of conductors, equipment, and field wiring for electric signs and outline lighting, regardless of voltage. As per Sec. 600.21(D), "A working space at least 3 ft high x 3 ft wide x 3 ft deep shall be provided at each ballast, transformer, electronic power supply, and Class 2 power source or at its enclosure where not installed in a sign."

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.