How have 2023 NEC updates changed disconnect requirements for electric signs?
Overview
Disconnects provide a convenient location for personnel to remove the supply of electric power to pieces of equipment. Electrical power may need to be removed for a variety of different reasons, including
servicing, or maintenance. It has been recognized in the 2023 NEC that additional reasons for the disconnect of electrical power may be necessary. Section 600.6, which covers disconnects associated with electric signs and outline lighting, includes a footnote explaining that these disconnects are installed for the purpose of service and maintenance. The 2023 NEC adds an additional noted purpose for these disconnects.
Applying the 2023 Code
| Section 600.6, which covers the disconnecting means for electric signs and outline lighting, requires an externally operable switch for each sign and outline lighting system, feeder conductor(s), or branch circuit(s) supplying a sign, outline lighting system, or skeleton tubing system. These disconnects must open all ungrounded conductors simultaneously to completely isolate the supply of electric power to the sign/outline lighting. Two exceptions exist: Exception (1) doesn’t require disconnects for bidirectional exit signs within a building, and Exception (2) doesn’t require a disconnecting means for a cord and plug connected signs. The informational note in Section 600.6 stated in the past that the disconnect was “intended to allow service or maintenance personnel complete and local control of the disconnecting means.” The 2023 NEC recognizes that the intent actually goes beyond just maintenance and service personnel. First responders have been added to the list of intended personnel for which the disconnect is to be installed for. |
What’s New for the 2023 NEC?
2020 NEC
In the 2020 NEC Subdivision 600.6 read as follows:
| 600.6 Disconnects.
Each sign and outline lighting system, feeder conductor(s), or branch circuit(s) supplying a sign, outline lighting system, or skeleton tubing shall be controlled by an externally operable switch or circuit breaker that opens all ungrounded conductors and controls no other load. The switch or circuit breaker shall open all ungrounded conductors simultaneously on multi-wire branch circuits in accordance with 210.4(B). Signs and outline lighting systems located within fountains shall have the disconnect located in accordance with 680.13. Exception No. 1: A disconnecting means shall not be required for an exit directional sign located within a building. Exception No. 2: A disconnecting means shall not be required for cord-connected signs with an attachment plug. Informational Note: The location of the disconnect is intended to allow service or maintenance personnel complete and local control of the disconnecting means. |
2023 NEC
In the 2023 NEC Subdivision 600.6 reads as follows:
| 600.6 Disconnects.
Each sign and outline lighting system, feeder conductor(s), or branch circuit(s) supplying a sign, outline lighting system, or skeleton tubing shall be controlled by an externally operable switch or circuit breaker that opens all ungrounded conductors and controls no other load. The switch or circuit breaker shall open all ungrounded conductors simultaneously on multi-wire branch circuits in accordance with 210.4(B). Signs and outline lighting systems located within fountains shall have the disconnect located in accordance with 680.13. Exception No. 1: A disconnecting means shall not be required for an exit directional sign located within a building. Exception No. 2: A disconnecting means shall not be required for cord-connected signs with an attachment plug. Informational Note: The location of the disconnect is intended to allow service or maintenance personnel and first responders complete and local control of the disconnecting means. |
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