Code Change Summary: New requirements on identifying the location where power originates.
During the 2011 NEC® code cycle, rules were added in Section 408.4(B) to require switchboards and panelboards supplied by a feeder (other than one- or two-family dwellings) to be marked to indicate where the equipment receives its power. That way, anyone walking up to the panel can see the label and instantly know where to go to shut it off.
In the 2014 NEC®, Section 408.4(B) was expanded to apply to switchgear and to require the marking to include “each” source of power since equipment is often supplied by a normal source of power and also an alternate power source such as a standby or emergency generator.
In the 2023 NEC®, Section 408.4(B) was reworded and placed into a list. The code language still only applies to the marking of switchboards, switchgear, and panelboards supplied by a feeder in other than one- or two-family dwellings.
The revised language in item 1 deletes the word “each” and adds a new requirement to make sure that the required marking now includes the physical location of the equipment where the power originates. Simply identifying the power source that supplies a switchboard, switchgear, or panelboard is worthless unless the location of the power source is also known. Knowing that Panel MDP supplies panel L-2 doesn’t do any good unless someone also knows where panel MDP is located.
Similar language pertaining to the identification of a disconnecting means is found in Section 110.22(A).
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:
408.4 Field Identification Required.
(B) Source of Supply. All switchboards, switchgear, and panelboards supplied by a feeder(s) in other than one- or two-family dwellings shall be permanently marked to indicate each device or equipment where the power originates. The label shall be permanently affixed, of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved, and not handwritten.
2023 Code Language:
408.4 Descriptions Required.
(B) Source of Supply. All switchboards, switchgear, and panelboards supplied by a feeder(s) in other than one- or two-family dwellings shall be permanently marked in accordance with the following:
(1) With the identification and physical location of where the power originates
(2) With a label that is permanently affixed and of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved
(3) Using a method that is not handwritten
Based on the 2023 NEC, which of the following is true?
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