What is the minimum distance a service conductor (open or without an outer jacket) must be from working windows or doors?

• A. 2 feet
• B. 3 feet
• C. 4 feet
• D. 6 feet

Answer: (B)

The essential idea is to keep bare, uninsulated service conductors far enough away from windows and doors so people can’t accidentally touch them when a door or window is opened. When conductors are open or not jacketed, they present a direct shock hazard, and a door or window could bring a person’s hand, a tool, or clothing into reach if the clearance is too small. Setting a three-foot buffer provides a practical safety margin that accommodates people, their movements, and typical door/window operation, reducing the chance of contact or arcing hazards. Among the given options, three feet is the minimum that offers a reliable safety gap for open conductors near openings.