Working space generally applies to the protection of the worker. Dedicated equipment space applies to the space reserved for future access to electrical equipment and to the protection of the equipment from intrusion by non-electrical equipment. The requirements for all spaces about electrical equipment are in Philippine Electrical Code Section 1.10.2.1 Spaces About Electrical Equipment. Storage of materials that block access or prevent safe work practices must be avoided at all times.
The purpose of Section 1.10.2.1 is to provide enough space for worker to perform any examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance of equipment without endangering the worker. Examples of such equipment include panelboards, switches, circuit breakers, controllers, and controls on heating and air-conditioning equipment. It is important to understand that the word examination, as used in this section, includes such tasks as checking for the presence of voltage using a portable voltmeter.
Minimum working clearances are not required if the equipment is such that it is not likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized. However, access and working space are still required for access.
This section specifies the required working space for such equipment as panelboards, switches, circuit breakers, controllers, and controls on heating and air-conditioning equipment. The intent is to provide enough space for personnel to perform any of the operations listed without jeopardizing worker safety. The word examination, as used in 1.10.2.1(A), includes such tasks as checking for the presence of voltage using a portable voltmeter.
Minimum working clearances are not required if the equipment is such that it is not likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized. However, access and working space are still required.
