In a multiple-occupancy building, should each occupant have access to their own supply disconnecting means?

In a multiple-occupancy building, it is essential for each occupant to have access to their own supply disconnecting means to ensure safety and functionality. Supply disconnecting means allow occupants to disconnect their electrical service from the source in case of an emergency, such as a fire or electrical issue, thus providing a critical safety mechanism. This independence in disconnection enhances the overall safety of the building, as each occupancy can respond to electrical emergencies without depending on access to a common disconnect.

Moreover, national standards and local codes typically emphasize the importance of accessibility to power controls, which is why having individual disconnects is widely understood to be necessary. This practice aligns with the principle of ensuring that each tenant or occupant can respond effectively to their own needs without endangering others or risking damage to shared infrastructure.

In scenarios where the building houses distinct businesses or residential units, having individualized disconnecting means not only complies with safety standards but also facilitates maintenance and monitoring of the electrical systems within each space. Thus, the necessity for each occupant to have access to their own supply disconnecting means is well-justified and aligns with established safety practices.