Change Summary

• A new exception provides reasonable relaxation of AFCI protection for existing branch circuits that are moved or lengthened but no additional outlets are installed
• A new exception has been added to subdivision (B)
• AFCI protection is not required if the extension is not longer than 6 feet and does not include any devices or outlets

Expert Analysis

The new exception to 210.12(B) provides a reasonable level of relief from having to provide AFCI protection for the entire branch circuit even if no additional outlets or devices are added.  Information in the substantiation addressed service changes or relocating a panelboard and the branch circuit has to be moved or slightly lengthened to accomplish the work. Having to apply the AFCI requirements specified in (B) in these scenarios can create undue hardship for owners and electrical contractors in that such requirements can cause the entire branch circuit to have to be replaced.  The reason is that some existing branch circuits were installed as 3-wire home runs with a shared neutral.  Some AFCI protective devices require a branch circuit without a shared neutral. The exception provides the needed relief for installers and inspectors, but is restrictive in that the modification cannot include adding any outlets or devices and must be accomplished within a 6 foot length. As indicated in affirmative ballot statements to this proposal, this new exception will promote more uniform interpretation and application of AFCI requirements to branch circuit modifications or extensions.