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The width of the working space in front of electrical equipment must be at least how wide?

At least 30 inches wide, or the equipment width.

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  1. 18 inches
  2. 48 inches
  3. 30 inches ✔

Why: Section 110.26 requires a working space at least 30 inches wide, or the width of the equipment if that is wider. It lets a person work safely in front of the panel.

Huh, didn't know that: The 30 inch width can be measured left to right, right to left, or centered on the equipment.

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An electrician arrives home at 3 a.m. His wife asks him, Wire you insulate?
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References

Answer: 30 inches. Section 110.26 requires a working space at least 30 inches wide, or the width of the equipment if that is wider. It lets a person work safely in front of the panel.

  1. EC&M: NEC Requirements for Working Clearances www.ecmweb.com/national-electrical-code/code-basics/article/21259374/nec-requirements-for-working-clearances
    The width of the working space must be at least 30 in., but in no case less than the width of the equipment.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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