Service Loops. Metallic Conductors.

At least 6 inches of service loop shall be provided at control panels and enclosures used for wiring terminations.
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At least 6 inches of service loop shall be provided at control panels and enclosures used for wiring terminations.

Section 4.6.4 is all about leaving enough wire at the security equipment to allow for future access and servicing. All too often, a security system panel must be replaced, and the previous installer did not leave enough wire to allow for future servicing.

The NEC® has similar requirements in Section 300.14 as follows:

300.14 Length of Free Conductors at Outlets, Junctions, and Switch Points. At least 150 mm (6 in.) of free conductor, measured from the point in the box where it emerges from its raceway or cable sheath, shall be left at each outlet, junction, and switch point for splices or the connection of luminaires or devices. Where the opening to an outlet, junction, or switch point is less than 200 mm (8 in.) in any dimension, each conductor shall be long enough to extend at least 75 mm (3 in.) outside the opening.

Below is a sample of NFPA 731. For the complete section, see the actual NFPA 731 text at NFPA.ORG. Once there, click on the free access link to the latest edition of NFPA 731.

4.6.4 Service Loops — Metallic Conductors.

4.6.4.1 A minimum 152.4 mm (6 in.) service loop shall be at control panels and enclosures used for wiring terminations.

4.6.4.2 A minimum 152.4 mm (6 in.) service loop shall be at field terminations.

4.6.4.3 Where exposed or subject to damage, service loops shall be mechanically secured.

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Service Loops. Metallic Conductors.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Which of the following is true regarding security control panels?

A: A minimum 6 inches of service loop shall be provided at field terminations.
B: A minimum 8 inches of service loop shall be provided at all terminations.
C: Where subject to exposure, service loops shall be installed in rigid metal conduit.
D: Where exposed, service wiring shall be mechanically related.
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