Fluorescent luminaires that utilize double-ended lamps and contain ballast(s) that can be serviced in place shall have which of the following?

In the context of fluorescent luminaires with double-ended lamps that include serviceable ballasts, having a disconnecting means is essential for safety when performing maintenance or servicing. This requirement helps to ensure that the maintenance personnel can safely disconnect the power source to the luminaire, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock or accidents during servicing of the ballast.

A disconnecting means allows for an easy and quick method to isolate the power from the luminaire, enhancing safety protocols and ensuring compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards regarding maintenance of electrical equipment. This feature is crucial in environments where maintenance might be routine or necessary, ensuring that personnel can conduct repairs without the danger of live electrical components.

In contrast, an access panel, while useful for maintenance, does not directly provide a means to disconnect power and ensure safety during servicing. Similarly, built-in timers and internal fuses do not fulfill the requirement for a safely isolating power supply during maintenance tasks. The focus here is on the provision of a safe operational environment, which is why the disconnecting means is the correct choice.