110.3(B) Installation and Use.

QR codes are an acceptable way to obtain product installation instructions.
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QR codes are an acceptable way to obtain product installation instructions.

Code Change Summary: A new informational note was added pertaining to installation instructions.

In the 2023 NEC®, a new informational note was added to 110.3(B) to inform the code reader that installation instructions may not always be in printed form and included inside the box the product comes in.

Informational notes are not enforceable, but they tend to be a helpful resource for the code reader. The new informational note states that installation instructions may be provided in the form of printed material, quick response (QR) code, or the address on the internet where users can download the required instructions.

Product safety standards such as UL1699 for Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupters allow the use of printed materials, QR codes, or an internet address for acceptable ways to obtain installation instructions. The file must be unrestricted and in a file format that is commonly used and downloadable.

Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.

2020 Code Language:

110.3(B) Installation and Use. Equipment that is listed, labeled, or both, or identified for a use shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing, labeling, or identification.

2023 Code Language:

110.3(B) Installation and Use. Equipment that is listed, labeled, or both, or identified for a use shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing, labeling, or identification.

Informational Note: The installation and use instructions may be provided in the form of printed material, quick response (QR) code, or the address on the internet where users can download the required instructions.

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110.3(B) Installation and Use.

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

Based on the 2023 NEC, which of the following is true?

A: The installation instructions may be provided in the form of printed material, quick response (QR) code, or the address on the internet where users can download the required instructions.
B: Installation instructions shall only be in the form of printed materials.
C: Installation instructions must be printed on the side of the electrical equipment.
D: Installation instructions must be printed on the side of all wiring methods.
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