Which NEC section permits a horsepower-rated switch or circuit breaker to serve as both the motor controller and the disconnecting means?

Which NEC section permits a horsepower-rated switch or circuit breaker to serve as both the motor controller and the disconnecting means?

• A. 430.101
• B. 430.111
• C. 430.109
• D. 430.52

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a device rated for the motor’s horsepower can act as both the controller (to start/stop and regulate the motor) and the disconnecting means (to isolate the motor for service). When a switch or circuit breaker is horsepower-rated for motor use, it is allowed to perform both roles in a single device, provided it is installed in a way that keeps the disconnect readily accessible and meets the listing and safety requirements for motor control. This arrangement simplifies the circuit by reducing the number of separate devices, while still giving you a visible, readily operable means to disconnect power to the motor for maintenance or emergency shutdown. The reason this option is the best fit is that it directly matches the scenario described—using a horsepower-rated switch or circuit breaker to serve as both controller and disconnect—whereas the other provisions cover different aspects (such as separate disconnects, specific locations, or protections) and do not authorize combining those functions in one device.

The key idea is that a device rated for the motor’s horsepower can act as both the controller (to start/stop and regulate the motor) and the disconnecting means (to isolate the motor for service). When a switch or circuit breaker is horsepower-rated for motor use, it is allowed to perform both roles in a single device, provided it is installed in a way that keeps the disconnect readily accessible and meets the listing and safety requirements for motor control. This arrangement simplifies the circuit by reducing the number of separate devices, while still giving you a visible, readily operable means to disconnect power to the motor for maintenance or emergency shutdown. The reason this option is the best fit is that it directly matches the scenario described—using a horsepower-rated switch or circuit breaker to serve as both controller and disconnect—whereas the other provisions cover different aspects (such as separate disconnects, specific locations, or protections) and do not authorize combining those functions in one device.