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It is essential for the safety of all building occupants and maintenance personnel that access to and around switchboards is maintained clearly and without obstruction at all times. This guide explains the requirements for ensuring proper access around switchboards.
Why Access is Important
Why Access is Important
Safety: Unobstructed access allows for quick and safe operation of the main switch during an emergency. In the event of a fire or electrical fault, a clear path allows for swift disconnection of the power supply, reducing the risk of fire and electric shock.
Maintenance: Electrical maintenance and repairs require adequate, safe working space around the switchboard. Obstructed access can make maintenance difficult or dangerous.
Emergency Services: In an emergency, fire and other services may need immediate access to switchboards to isolate power, and obstructions can cause critical delays.
Access Requirements for Switchboards
Access Requirements for Switchboards
According to the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3000:2018 (also known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules), switchboards must be installed to allow for sufficient space for safe operation, adjustment, and maintenance.
The minimum required clearances are:
At least 1.0 m of clear space must be maintained in front of any closed switchboard that requires access. In domestic electrical installations, this distance may be reduced to 0.6 m.
At least 0.6 m of unimpeded space must be provided around all sides of the switchboard where access is needed, including when switchgear doors are open or if gear is racked out for maintenance.
The standard illustrates these requirements with diagrams showing various switchboard layouts.
Freestanding Switchboard: This illustration shows a freestanding switchboard with clearance space on all four sides. It highlights the 1.0 m minimum distance in front and the 0.6 m clearance on the sides and back to allow for personnel to pass and equipment to be serviced.
Figure 1: Access around a freestanding switchboard
Switchboard in a Corner: This shows a switchboard installed in a corner, requiring 1.0 m of clearance in front and 0.6 m on the accessible side.
Figure 2: Access for a switchboard located in a corner
Switchboard Against a Wall: A switchboard with one end against a wall still requires 1.0 m of clearance in front and 0.6 m on the sides where access is required.
Figure 3: Access for a switchboard against a wall
Facing Switchboards: Where switchboards are installed facing each other, a minimum of 1.0 m of clear space must be maintained between them.
Figure 4: Access for facing switchboards
Access to Switchboards - Switchboard doors that open into access ways or narrow passageways: Where switchboards are installed in cupboards or passage ways, a minimum of 1.0 m of clear space must be maintained between the front of the panel and the opposite side of the passageway. Where switchboard dorrs can be opened the minimum space between the edge of an open door and the opposite wal shall be no less that 600mm
Figure 5: Access to switchboards that open into access ways or narrow passage ways
How to Maintain Clear Access
How to Maintain Clear Access
As a tenant, you can ensure compliance with these safety standards by:
Do not store any items in the designated clear space in front of or around the switchboard. This includes boxes, furniture, cleaning supplies, and personal belongings.
Keep all pathways clear. Ensure that there is a direct and unobstructed path to the switchboard from the nearest entrance.
Do not place locks or barriers on switchroom doors that would require a key or tool to open from the inside. Doors must open in the direction of egress for emergency escape.
Report any damage or obstructions to building management or a qualified electrician immediately.
By following these guidelines, you contribute to a safe environment for everyone in the building and help ensure that electrical systems can be properly and safely managed.
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