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Friday, November 3, 2023

Question:

Hello CQD, reading Article 409 there is not really a clear definition of what is considered an Industrial Control Panel. If the panel is intended to be sold for use in a multi-family residence for agriculture purposes, is it still considered an "Industrial” Control Panel? Does it still have to follow the marking and installation requirements listed in article 409? Can a TV technically be an industrial control panel since it fits the description? Regards, Mitchell Dees
A

Answer:

Hello Mitchell, Industrial Control Panel is defined in Article 100 as: An assembly of two or more components consisting of one of the following:

(1) Power circuit components only, such as motors controllers, overload relays, fused disconnect switches, and circuit breakers; (2) Control circuit components only, such as push buttons, pilot lights, selector switches, timers, switches, and control relays; (3) A combination of power and control circuit components. These components, with associated wiring and terminals, are mounted on, or contained within and enclosure or mounted on a subpanel.

 There is nothing in the definition or in Article 409 that prohibits the installation or use of an Industrial Control Panel in a dwelling unit. Part II of Article 409 and the product installation instructions will govern how and where it is installed.

 The listing identification label and product category is what ultimately differentiates one product from another. Using the examples from your question:

  •  A TV may have some components like an Industrial Control Panel, a TV is a listed product, constructed to applicable standard(s) for TVs, bearing a listing mark with a product description and category, and therefore would not qualify as a control panel.
  • The control panel for agricultural use in a dwelling unit, has a listing sticker that states “ENCLOSED INDUSTRIAL CONTROL PANEL” then it is indeed an Industrial Control Panel, and it has been built and constructed in accordance with the appropriate applicable product standard(s).

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