Title
Approve the amendment to Article 4 of the current Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) Unified Electrical Code (U.E.C), National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 70, the 2011 National Electrical Code (NEC).
Body
Recommended Action: Approve the amendment.
Background: Section 4.2.035 of the MABCD U.E.C. currently requires the working space adjacent to an electrical panel to be clear and extend from the floor to the height of six and one-half (6 ½) feet or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater. The language in the code currently does not allow the concrete or masonry foundation wall on which an electrical panel is located to extend (below the panel) beyond the face of the electrical panel. Currently, the contractor is required to build a section of the wall containing the panel thirty (30) inches in width out even with the face of the concrete wall below the panel to avoid a violation of the electrical code.
The proposed resolution would allow the electrical panel in a one-and two family dwelling or an accessory structure to be placed in a wall without requiring that section of the wall to be built out even with the face of the concrete or masonry wall.
Proposed changes to the unified electrical ordinance.
Sec. 4.2.035. - Working space about Electrical Service.
Section 110.26(A)(3) of the National Electrical Code shall be amended to add:
Exception #3: One- and two-family and multi-family dwellings, service panels located in garages, basements or accessory structures, a footing or stem wall that is located below the electric panel shall be permitted to extend not more than twelve (12) inches beyond the front of the electric panel.
Alternatives: Do not amend.
Financial Considerations: N/A
Legal Considerations: The authority for this action is K.S.A. 19-101 et seq.,K.S.A. 12-3303, et seq. and Sedgwick County Resolution 135-2012. This action has been approved by the Unified Electrical Trade Board. A simple majority vote is required.
Policy Considerations: