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What is the minimum clearance required between surface mounted incandescent luminaires and the nearest storage area in a closed closet?

  1. 6 inches

  2. 10 inches

  3. 12 inches

  4. 18 inches

The correct answer is: 12 inches

The minimum clearance required between surface-mounted incandescent luminaires and the nearest storage area in a closed closet is 12 inches. This requirement is established to prevent potential fire hazards and ensure safety. Incandescent bulbs produce heat when they are in operation, and if items are stored too close to these light fixtures, there is a risk of those items igniting due to excessive heat exposure. By maintaining a clearance of 12 inches, the code aims to create a safe buffer zone that minimizes this risk, supporting safe storage practices in residential and commercial installations. This distance helps ensure that the ambient temperature around the luminaire remains within safe limits, thus protecting both the lighting fixture and stored items from heat-related issues.