Code Q&A

Nov. 6, 2008

What is the maximum height that a safety switch can be installed?

Q. What is the maximum height that a safety switch can be installed?

A. Circuit breakers and fuses must be readily accessible, and they must be installed so the center of the grip of the operating handle of the fuse switch or circuit breaker, when in its highest position, isn’t more than 6 feet, 7 inches above the floor or working platform, unless the installation is for [240.24(A)]:

Busways, as provided in 368.17(C).
Supplementary overcurrent devices [240.10].
For overcurrent devices, as described in 225.40 and 230.92.
Overcurrent devices located next to equipment can be mounted above 6 feet 7 inches, if accessible by portable means [404.8(A) Ex 2].

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.