Fill in the blank. When installing a luminaire that weighs more than _____, the luminaire shall be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is _____ for not less than the weight to be supported.
A) 40 lbs / approved
B) 50 lbs / listed
C) 70 lbs / identified
D) 100 lbs / secured
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Answer: B
As specifically outlined in Sec. 314.27(A)(2) in the 2017 NEC, “At every outlet used exclusively for lighting, the box shall be designed or installed so that a luminaire or lampholder may be attached. Boxes shall be required to support a luminaire weighing a minimum of 23 kg (50 lb). A luminaire that weighs more than 23 kg (50 lb) shall be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is listed for not less than the weight to be supported. The interior of the box shall be marked by the manufacturer to indicate the maximum weight the box shall be permitted to support.”
Owen is the owner and president of National Code Seminars and the holder of master electrician certifications in 46 states. He can be reached at [email protected].