600.35 Retrofit Kits.
Code Change Summary: A new code section was added pertaining to the installation of sign retrofit kits.
Sign retrofits are quite common as the older more obsolete sign components are being replaced with more efficient, energy saving technology such as light emitting diode (LED). In the 2017 NEC®, Section 600.4(B) was added to require special marking and identification for a sign that has undergone a retrofit.
These marking requirements alert the inspector or service electrician that the sign has been field modified. The only way to ensure the retrofit was done correctly is to verify the installation with the manufacturer installation instructions. A retrofitted sign must be marked to indicate the following:
- That the illumination system has been replaced
- The retrofit kit provider and installer’s name, logo, or unique identifier
- If equipped with tubular light-emitting diode lamps, powered by the existing sign sockets, a label alerting the service personnel that the sign has been modified. The label must be visible during relamping and include a warning not to install fluorescent lamps
The above requirements are only marking and identification requirements and provide no information on the actual retrofit kit installation.
In the 2020 NEC®, new section 600.35 was added to provide installation requirements for sign retrofit kits. The code change was submitted by the International Sign Association to ensure a better understanding of what is required when retrofitting a sign.
In addition to 600.35, the following new definitions were added to Section 600.2 which align with the new language in 600.35:
N Host Sign. A sign or outline lighting system already installed in the field that is designated for field conversion of the illumination system with a retrofit kit.
N Retrofit Kit, General Use. A kit consisting of primary parts, which does not include all the parts for a complete subassembly but includes a list of required parts and installation instructions to complete the subassembly in the field.
N Retrofit Kit, Sign Specific. A kit consisting of the necessary parts and hardware to allow for field installation in a host sign, based on the included installation instructions.
N Subassembly. Component parts or a segment of a sign, retrofit kit, or outline lighting system that, when assembled, forms a complete unit or product.
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 2020 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.
2017 Code Language:
This code section did not exist.
2020 Code Language:
N 600.35 Retrofit Kits.
(A) General. A general-use or sign-specific retrofit kit for a sign or outline lighting system shall include installation instructions and requirements for field conversion of a host sign. The retrofit kit shall be listed and labeled.
(B) Installation. The retrofit kit shall be installed in accordance with the installation instructions.
(1) Wiring Methods. Wiring methods shall be in accordance with Chapter 3.
Exception: If powered from a Class 2 source, wiring methods shall be in accordance with 600.12(C)(1)(2) and (C)(2), 600.24, and 600.33.
(2) Damaged Parts. All parts that are not replaced by a retrofit kit shall be inspected for damage. Any part found to be damaged or damaged during conversion of the sign shall be replaced or repaired to maintain the sign or outline lighting system’s dry, damp, or wet location rating.
(3) Workmanship. Field conversion workmanship shall be in accordance with 110.12.
(4) Marking. The retrofitted sign shall be marked in accordance with 600.4(B).