NEC interpretation of work space

[TWong]

NEC requires 3 ft of space between the control panel and the wall per 110-26. When applying this rule to generators inside of an enclosure, must there be 3 ft to the wall? Or can you have 2 ft to the wall with a door, and argue that with the door open, there is plenty of space?
This question comes from the design of very small generators that one cannot enter the enclosure. Take the door off and you can access the generator, with plenty of room behind you.
If one does not close the door after entering a large enclosure, do you not have the same situation?
Tommy

 

[jbartos]

Suggestion: As long as you have 3 feet space against nonconducting wall when you open door from all points of the panel and in all directions, that would meet the intent of the code.