Regulations regarding access height to equipment

[jimseng]

I wanted to ask about equipment height (450-1200 mm) and what it applies to. In my plant room I want to install a small Ethernet patch panel and network switch but wall space is limited. This sort of equipment isn't really supposed to be accessed on a daily basis and I can't find a clear guide as to whether it has to be within the 450 to 1200 zone and if someone can point me to a document  that might show what does or doesn't have to stick to this rule. 
The electrician is installing the CUs at a certain height but what about my custom made box with 24v DC breakers? Do either the DC breakers or the network patch panel have to be at a certain height?

[Alan Ambrose]

>>> For new-build houses, Consumer Units (CUs) should typically be installed with the operational switches between 450 mm and 1200 mm from the finished floor level

 

Hmm, for Part M i.e. wheelchair access. Thankfully, I think only common sense apples to the other stuff. i.e. you're out of the clutches of NAPIT.

 

>>>  otherwise BS7671 - Recommended Height

• Optimal Height: The operating switches (main switch) should typically be located between 1350mm and 1450mm from the finished floor level.
• Acceptable Range: A broader, commonly accepted range for accessibility (to allow for easy operation and maintenance) is between 1m and 1.8m from the floor.