What is required for conductors installed in manholes or enclosures allowing personnel entry?

The requirement that conductors installed in manholes or enclosures allowing personnel entry must provide ready and safe access for installation and maintenance is important for several safety and practical reasons. When personnel need to enter these confined spaces for work, such as installation, inspection, or repair, it is crucial that they can do so without unnecessary risk or obstruction.

In practice, this means ensuring that conductors and any associated equipment are installed in a manner that facilitates easy movement and accessibility within the enclosure. This could involve considerations such as the arrangement of the conductors, leaving adequate space for tools, and ensuring that there are no sharp edges or hazards that could injure personnel. Accessibility also plays a critical role in emergency situations, allowing quick action to be taken if needed.

Having conductors that are hard to access could lead to dangerous situations, increased risk of accidents, or delays in maintenance which could compromise the electrical system's safety and reliability. Therefore, the emphasis on safe access is essential in maintaining compliance with safety standards and upholding the well-being of personnel working in these settings.