Timeline for Does NEC require junction boxes to be accessible without tools?
Current License: CC BY-SA 4.0
5 events
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| Sep 21, 2022 at 12:39 | comment | added | trawson | @RobertChapin yeah that is part of the issue. In this case the plywood piece is ~12" x 36" and will be screwed down but easily removable without damaging anything. If I instead design it as three pieces ~12" x 12" with the middle one as an "access panel" and the other two as just "building finish" is that different? I suppose ultimately it's up to the AHJ. I looked for access panel info in the building code but so far I can't find much that's relevant -- most of the provisions are about preserving insulation and fire rating integrity. | |
| Sep 21, 2022 at 12:29 | comment | added | Robert Chapin | @trawson A "screwed down panel" is too ambiguous. We're talking about the difference between a faceplate vs a sheet of plywood or drywall. So, is it the finish of the building? Or is it an access panel? You might want to look at the local building code regarding requirements for access panels. | |
| Sep 21, 2022 at 12:29 | comment | added | crip659 | Don't know the code that well, but have read a few questions/answers on here that do mention about not hiding in walls or behind screwed in cabinets, but also mention you can have a junction box in the accessible attic for stuff, instead of being seen in the ceiling. | |
| Sep 21, 2022 at 12:24 | comment | added | trawson | Can you give a code reference for the "without tools" part? I can't see anything in the code that prohibits the use of -- for example -- screwed down panels with visible screws, for items like junction boxes that need to be accessible. They would not be allowed as far as I know for something like a disconnect that needs to be readily accessible. | |
| Sep 21, 2022 at 12:13 | history | answered | crip659 | CC BY-SA 4.0 |