What is the minimum clear safe working distance, in feet, from a wall to an energized 240-volt breaker panel with the cover removed?

What is the minimum clear safe working distance, in feet, from a wall to an energized 240-volt breaker panel with the cover removed?

• A. 2
• B. 3
• C. 4
• D. 6

Answer: (B)

A three-foot front clearance is required for safe access to energized electrical equipment. This space lets you reach, test, and operate the components inside the panel without crowding the live parts, and it accommodates movement in case of an arc flash. Therefore, when the cover is removed on a 240-volt breaker panel, the distance from a wall to the front of the panel must be at least three feet. Smaller gaps aren’t adequate for safe work, while larger gaps simply exceed the minimum.

A three-foot front clearance is required for safe access to energized electrical equipment. This space lets you reach, test, and operate the components inside the panel without crowding the live parts, and it accommodates movement in case of an arc flash. Therefore, when the cover is removed on a 240-volt breaker panel, the distance from a wall to the front of the panel must be at least three feet. Smaller gaps aren’t adequate for safe work, while larger gaps simply exceed the minimum.