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Circuit Directory or Identification Requirements

Feb. 20, 2018
Per Sec. 408.4(A) of the 2017 National Electrical Code, every circuit in a circuit panel must be identified as to its specific purpose or use.

In a circuit panel, every circuit must be identified as to its specific purpose or use [as per Sec. 408.4(A) of the National Electrical Code]. This identification must be made:

  • In a circuit directory that is located on the face or inside of the panel door (panel boards).
  • At each switch or circuit breaker (switchboards or switchgear).

Often, compliance with this rule fails to embrace the rationale behind it. Instead of a type-written, accurate, clear circuit name, what do some installers leave? Some examples include:

  • Handwritten (in smudged pencil) illegible scrawl.
  • For the sake of space, one or more mysterious abbreviations.
  • Vague description because the electrician was too tired after ten hours of pulling wire to whip out a brilliantly composed description on the spot.
  • Handwritten ink on top of poorly applied correction fluid, denoting a change from the original.
  • Stick-on tags that don’t stay put after some time in service

These problems exist because of the “afterthought” attitude toward this Code rule. The solution is to plan this identification from the drawings. Labels made using the correct methods and materials should be provided to the electricians to affix where needed.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.

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