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Tuesday, February 2, 2021

Question:

Good Morning CQD,

In a 480Y/277V panel, the incoming feeder to the main CB is color coded Brown/Orange/Yellow. The branch circuits are color coded Black/Red/Blue. Is having two different color systems in the same panel a NEC violation? I know the colors are typically used for different voltage systems but I can't find anything in the code that would prevent this.

Jonathan Moore

 

A

Answer:

Hello Jonathan,

The response is based on the information provided in the question. Sections 210.5(C) and 215.12(C) address identification means for branch circuits and feeders respectively where more than one nominal voltage systems are installed in the same building or structure. What is not known is if there is more than one system in this building. It could be presumed since most buildings or structures would have a system that supplies 120 volt receptacles. In this case, if color code is used as the identification means for these two systems, then the colors should be kept separate. Also, the means of identification can be by color coding, tagging, marking tape, or other approved means. The word approved brings the AHJ into the equation. It might be wise to verify what is going to be acceptable to the approving inspector.

 

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