Which location is not a suitable within-sight motor disconnecting means per NEC 430.102?

• A. The disconnect is located directly adjacent to the motor in sight of the motor
• B. The disconnect is located in a separate room with the motor and within sight
• C. The disconnect is located by the door when entering the space and is not within the line of sight of the motor and more than 50 feet from the motor
• D. The disconnect is mounted on the motor enclosure

Answer: (C)

The requirement being tested is that the motor disconnecting means must be located within sight of the motor so the operator can quickly de-energize the motor when needed. “Within sight” means you can observe the motor from the disconnect location without leaving the area or turning corners, ensuring immediate and safe isolation.

The option where the disconnect is by the door when entering the space and is not in the line of sight of the motor and is more than 50 feet away fails because you cannot see the motor from the disconnect, and the distance is beyond what is allowed for a disconnect intended to be read- ily reachable and observable. In contrast, the other setups place the disconnect in a position where the motor is visible or directly on the motor, satisfying the vision requirement and enabling prompt disconnection.