406.3(E) Controlled Receptacle Marking.
Code Change Summary: Code language was added to address the marking of specific controlled receptacles.
In the 2014 NEC®, Section 406.3(E) was added to require marking on receptacles that are automatically controlled or have integral control features in order to make the user aware that the receptacle may or may not always have power.
There are many buildings where receptacles are wired to an electric panel that is controlled by an energy management system. After hours, when the building is not occupied, certain select circuits are automatically switched off. This can create an issue for specific receptacles in areas like office cubicles equipped with a mini refrigerator. This could also apply in a nursing home to visiting area receptacles that might be used by an elderly person plugging in their breathing machine.
See the image for an example of the required symbol to identify a controlled receptacle.
Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on the “free access” tab and select the applicable year of NFPA 70 (National Electrical code).
2014 Code Language:
406.3(E) Controlled Receptacle Marking. All nonlocking type, 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles that are controlled by an automatic control device, or that incorporate control features that remove power from the outlet for the purpose of energy management or building automation, shall be marked with the symbol shown in Figure 406.3(E) and located on the controlled receptacle outlet where visible after installation.