Robert Marek
03-05-2011, 12:18 PM
I understand that receptacle spacing must be within 6' of an opening and every 12' thereafter, including on any wall greater than 24".
However, if an opening, from one room to another, provides access to a stairwell leading to the basement, and the wall space from the opening to the stairwell is 3 feet, is an electrical outlet required if it poses a safety hazard?
Note that this wall will NEVER have a fixed object, such as a table with a lamp etc.. since it will most certainly block access to the stairwell. Any other reason for plugging into an electrical outlet located on that 3' section of wall will present a trip hazard -- directly down the stairwell, (e.g., mother vacuuming while children are playing, mother gives a tug on the vacuum cleaner, cord becomes taught and the child goes tumbling down the stairs). What consideration does the "code" provide that addresses safety concerns such as this?
Thanks
HD Bob
However, if an opening, from one room to another, provides access to a stairwell leading to the basement, and the wall space from the opening to the stairwell is 3 feet, is an electrical outlet required if it poses a safety hazard?
Note that this wall will NEVER have a fixed object, such as a table with a lamp etc.. since it will most certainly block access to the stairwell. Any other reason for plugging into an electrical outlet located on that 3' section of wall will present a trip hazard -- directly down the stairwell, (e.g., mother vacuuming while children are playing, mother gives a tug on the vacuum cleaner, cord becomes taught and the child goes tumbling down the stairs). What consideration does the "code" provide that addresses safety concerns such as this?
Thanks
HD Bob