Code Change Summary: A new code section was added to address identification of circuits feeding space heating cables.

A new requirement was added in the 2017 NEC^® which is really directed at manufacturers of space heating cables. The new rule requires the manufacturer of electric space heating cables to provide marking labels that indicate that the overall space-heating installation incorporates electric space-heating cables. As well, the manufacturer is also required to mention (in the installation instructions) that the labels must be affixed to the panelboards in order to identify which branch circuits supply the space-heating installations.

If the electric space-heating cables happen to still be visible after installation, the labels are not required to be affixed to the panelboards.

The intent of the code requirement is to make sure those who may be about to drill through or anchor something to the floor, wall or ceiling are made aware of the cables located just under the surface.

Similar requirements were previously located in 424.92(D) and only applied to heating panels or heating panel sets but made no mention of heating cables which seem to be more common.

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 2017 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.