How big does a ceiling access panel need to be?

Update:Apr 26,2022
Summary:Access panel shall be, at a minimum 36” X 48” where the equipment or device is less than 18” from the finished ceiling. Use 36” x 48” access panels wh......
Access panel shall be, at a minimum 36” X 48” where the equipment or device is less than 18” from the finished ceiling. Use 36” x 48” access panels where the equipment or device is more than 18” from the finish ceiling and where equipment or device has a panel or door that needs to be opened or removed for service.