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406.3(E) Marking for Controlled Receptacle

Change Summary

  • A new subdivision (E) titled Controlled Receptacle Marking, Exception, and associated figure have been added to 406.3.
  • This requirement applies to receptacles controlled by building automation or energy management systems.
  • A specific power symbol marking must be applied to non-locking type, all 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere automatically controlled receptacle outlets and be visible after installation
NEC® Text

 
406.3 Receptacle Rating and Type

(A) Through (D). …(See NEC text)…
(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.
Exception: The marking is not required for receptacles controlled by a wall switch that provide the required room lighting outlets as permitted by 210.70.

Copyright© 2013 National Fire Protection Association

(See NEC for complete text)

Expert Analysis

Multiple performance requirements included in the energy codes can drive installation requirements in the NEC. Building automation systems and energy management systems can automatically control loads connected through receptacles. This provision places a specific marking requirement for controlled receptacle outlets, except switch-controlled receptacle outlets in accordance with 210.70. Although the exact location of the marking is not provided, however a specific universal power symbol must be provided at the receptacle outlet. This can be interpreted to mean marking the receptacle face or the faceplate for the receptacle outlet, which would both meet the intent as currently written. A new figure 406.3(E) is provided in this section to promote consistent identification for these receptacle outlets. The substantiation indicated energy management codes that are currently being widely adopted such as ASHRAE 90.1 and could require that up to 50 percent of 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles be automatically controlled. The automatic control could be by an energy management system, timer, or sensor. Occupants should know which receptacle outlets are automatically controlled to avoid cord-and plug-connected loads from being unintentionally turned on or off which raises safety concerns as well as inconvenience. It is important to readily identify receptacle outlets that are automatically energized.

 

 

Figure 406.3(E) Controlled Receptacle Marking Symbol

 

 

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