Enclosure Latches UL508/CE

[uwryguy]

Does a UL508 listed or CE safety marked control panel require the enclosure to only be opened with a special tool (screw driver) etc. I have a customer who is requesting to have screws added to a standard fiberglass enclosure that currently only has latches. This is what they have always done but they are not sure why.

 

[cmlr]

Hi uwryguy,

UL 508 does not require the enclosure to be opened with a special tool. In fact, the standard actually mentions latches to be a valid option, as long as they remain attached to the enclosure when the door is opened.

I can't answer your question for CE.

Caspar

 

[Kiljoy]

The CE requirement is the same as NFPA79. If there is a disconnect, then the panel must be interlocked so it won't open with the disconnect in the "ON" position.
If there is no disconnect, then the panel needs to be secured to where a tool is required to open it. So, If your latches can be undone by hand, then yes you need to add screw-downs. I'm not sure, but maybe adding a padlock clasp would help.