For what reason must boxes be accessible for maintenance?

Boxes must be accessible for maintenance primarily to perform necessary repairs. Accessibility is a crucial requirement in electrical installations, as it allows electricians and maintenance personnel to reach junction boxes, switches, and other electrical components easily. This accessibility ensures that if a problem arises—such as equipment malfunction, wire damage, or other issues—qualified personnel can quickly evaluate and address the situation.

Performing repairs is vital to maintaining the safety and functionality of electrical systems. If boxes are not accessible, it can lead to complications in troubleshooting and resolving issues, potentially causing extended downtime or unsafe conditions.

In terms of the other considerations, while visual inspection and facilitating upgrades are important aspects of maintaining electrical systems, they do not directly address the immediate need to repair faulty components. Preventing overloads is a function of the design and rating of the electrical system rather than a specific reason for making boxes accessible for maintenance.