Finished Columns and NEC 210.52(A)(2)(1) - Wall Space

[jar546]

There seems to be a drive towards open spaces in dwelling units, which inevitably leads to vertical columns in the middle of those open spaces. Often, we see large columns in condos that end up being 24" square, about eight linear feet of what can be considered wall space.

Do you consider these finished columns to be wall space? Would 210.52 apply?

If so, then a simple 6" square column would also apply because that would equal the minimum two feet of wall space for a required receptacle.

In reality, I actually do see receptacles and sometimes switches being located in these areas because of convenience and common sense. However, I wonder if anyone considers columns like this wall space where 210.52 applies. What are your thoughts?

 

[TheCommish]

Yes outlet a lamp will be used

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

The underlying reason for the receptacle outlet spacing requirement is that -- historically -- lamps and small appliances came with 6-foot cords (in recent years I've seen cords as short as 2 or 3 feet), and the intention was to space outlets such that extension cords would not be needed. Since those columns are big enough that a piece of furniture might be placed against one and a lamp, radio, or other electrical device placed there -- I agree there should be a receptacle outlet.

 

[wwhitney]

Seem to me the question is where to draw the dividing line between a column and a wall.

Certainly if we had exposed timber frame construction, then a solid timber column should not be subject to 210.52(A) wall space requirements. That means that 210.52(A)(2)(1)'s text about "any space 600 mm (2 ft) or more in width (including space measured around corners) and . . ." needs to be understand as "any space along a wall".

Now if you stick some wallboard directly on to the column, I don't think that would change anything. But if you add some independent framing around the column, and the wallboard is supported by that framing, that sounds like a wall to me.

Cheers, Wayne