My last column, covering working clearance and other space requirements around electrical equipment, contained a significant error that needs to be corrected ASAP. In talking about the dedicated electrical space, which is required above the equipment to permit the installation of conduits and cables, I made the statement that fire protection piping is permitted there. That is not correct.
NEC Article 110.26(F)(1)(c) permits fire sprinkler protection for the dedicated space, where the piping complies with the requirements of that section. This means that the piping itself must be located outside of the dedicated space, although the coverage (spray pattern) of the sprinkler heads may extend into it. Remember also that if the piping is located above the dedicated space, you must provide some means of protecting the electrical equipment from leaks or breaks per 110.26(F)(1)(b).