What is the minimum working space required in front of an electrical panel?

The minimum working space required in front of an electrical panel is indeed 36 inches. This distance is crucial for safety and accessibility purposes. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies this requirement to ensure that there is sufficient room for electricians or technicians to safely operate equipment, perform maintenance, or conduct inspections without the risk of injury or obstruction.

Having 36 inches of working space allows for the safe opening of panel doors and provides room for tools and other equipment that may be necessary during work on the electrical panel. This clear space is also important in emergency situations, where quick access may be required.

While the other options reflect different measurements, they either exceed the minimum required space or do not meet the standard set by the NEC, underscoring the importance of 36 inches as the specified requirement for safe working space in front of electrical panels.