National Electrical Installation Standards

Standards as High as Your Own

 
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Thursday, February 4, 2021

Question:

Hello,

Does an exit/emergency branch circuit in a 277/480v lighting system have to be the same color as the phase colors? (Brown/Orange/Yellow) In reference to NEC 210.5.

CJ Jagielo

A

Answer:

Hi CJ,

Thanks for participating. If the branch circuit identification means selected for the branch circuit conductors is a color code as indicated in 210.5(C), then the entire branch circuit should be identified using the same color. Keep in mind that the means of identification of branch circuit conductors must be posted at the branch circuit panelboard. Also, the means of identification can be by color coding, tagging, marking tape, or other approved means. Once a means is chosen it should be kept consistent through the system. See the full text in Section 210.5(C)(1) for all the requirements.

 

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