Switch Connection Requirements for Lighting Loads

May 19, 2014
Article 404 of the 2011 NEC covers the the requirements for switches, switching devices and circuit breakers used as switches.

Switches controlling line-to-neutral lighting loads must have a neutral provided at the switch location unless _____.

a) the conductors for switches enter the device box through a raceway that has sufficient cross-sectional area to accommodate a neutral conductor
b) cable assemblies for switches enter the box through a framing cavity that’s open at the top or bottom on the same floor level, or through a wall, floor, or ceiling that’s unfinished on one side
c) the lighting consists of all fluorescent fixtures with integral disconnects for the ballasts
d) a or b

See answer and applicable Code reference

The correct answer is: d) a or b

Article 404 of the 2011 NEC covers the the requirements for switches, switching devices and circuit breakers used as switches. Switch connection requirements are noted in Sec. 404.2. As noted in Sec. 404.2(C), "Where switches control lighting loads supplied from a grounded general purpose branch circuit, the grounded circuit conductor for the controlled lighting circuit shall be provided at the switch location." However, an Exception notes the grounded circuit conductor shall be permitted to be omitted from the switch enclosure if two conditions are met.

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