This article was posted 06/01/2007 and is most likely outdated.

Article 408 Switchboards and Panelboards - 408.7
 

 
Subject - Article 408 Switchboards and Panelboards - 408.7
Based on - NEC - 2005 Edition

June 1, 2007
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Switchboards and Panelboards

408.7 Unused Openings

New section specifies that unused openings for circuit breakers and switches must be closed in a manner approved by the authority having jurisdiction to restrict access to energized parts when the equipment is fully assembled.

Unused openings for circuit breakers and switches must be closed using identified closures, or other means approved by the authority having jurisdiction as providing protection substantially equivalent to the wall of the enclosure. Figure 408-2


Figure 408-2
(Click on image to enlarge)

       
 

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Comments
  • maybe this is a stupid question, but in light of this article, why is it that in meter socket enclosures they send cardboard to cover the live parts after installation instead of the plastic cover?

    nathan
    Reply to this comment

  • Now if we can just get the supply houses to keep the things in stock. I used them for years. Always thought they were required but never looked for the relevent code section. Just made plain good sence!

    Curtis Brown
    Reply to this comment

  • The whole point here is safety. It is not to keep the Qualified Electrician from sticking objects into the openings but, the unqualified, children that can reach the panel cover, and homeowners. It is also a preventative measure to keep objects from accidentailly going through openings and causing shorts, etc. It also contains sparks that may or may not fly out of the panel in a short or fire condition spreading the situation further. It also lessens access to larger size bugs and rodens, which in the attempt can climb through the opening and be electricuted and cause damage and possible fire.

    Scott Williams
    Reply to this comment

  • At times in an old panel, perhaps the KO's were removed by some handyman or other change, We have used a 4" Square blank cover secured with screws and nuts to return the deadfront to a solid face.

    Lynn Adams
    Reply to this comment

  • tape won't do the job!!!!!

    carl
    Reply to this comment

  • Hmm, I thought this was generally already required. But in the light of Ms Mann's concerns regarding sticking objects into live equipment, wouldn't a more practical safety item be one where these circuit breaker blanks be mechanically held, instead of the pop and pull plastic tab sort; much like how large knock out seals are held with a bolt and flange thus necessitating a minimum of tools to remove it?

    Alexander Osborn
    Reply to this comment

  • This has been required for years in Washington State.

    Tall Bill
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