MYNFPA70 – The Installation Code

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is poised to introduce a significant update in the 2026 code cycle. This Section 110.16 is poised to take a historical step in electrical safety that will benefit the electrical worker like no other change has before. Let’s take a look at some of the key changes that are coming together this cycle. In the opinion of this author, these changes will have a significant rippling effect on the future of the code.

The New Requirement

The change we are seeing this cycle is similar to what the original submitter was seeking in 2002 when proposed. Section 110.16 is ready to hit the streets including the following key attributes:

1. Title change: The title is simplified to be “Arc-Flash Hazard Marking“
2. Streamlined: The previous two first-level subdivisions (A) General and (B) Service Equipment and Feeder Supplied Equipment, have been removed leaving a 110.16 section that just simply states the labeling requirement.
3. Other tan dwellings: The requirement still only applies to other than dwelling units and to equipment that are likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized.
4. Expansion: Service equipment and feeder-supplied equipment is impacted but without the 1200A qualifier impacting all sizes of service and feeder-supplied equipment such as but not limited to:
   • Switchboards
   • Switchgear
   • Enclosed panel boards
   • Industrial control panels
   • Meter socket enclosures
   • Motor control centers.
5. Marking: The markings must be durable meeting the requirements of 110.21(B) and be located so as to be clearly visible to qualified persons.
6. Label: The arc flash hazard marking must be in accordance with applicable industry practice (NFPA 70E and IEEE 1584 are two important industry references) and include the following information:
   • Nominal system voltage
   • Arc flash boundary
   • Available incident energy or minimum required level of personal protective equipment
   • Date that the assessment was completed

The updated language solidifies expectations and ensures that the markings provide critical, actionable information for those working near energized equipment.

A Look Back

Section 110.16 was first introduced in 2002. The result of this code cycle was to address arc flash hazards through a general warning label.

The public input 1-235 which was submitted by Mr. Ray A. Jones of Electrical Equipment Safety Consulting Services, Inc., sought something much different. This public input was seeking the following language:

110-15. Flash Protection. For other than residential occupancies, switchboards, panelboards, loadcenters and motor control centers shall be marked in the field to indicate the incident energy in calories per square centimeter for a worker at a distance of 18 in.

It was the response to this public input that left the code with a general hazard warning marking requirement. 110.16 did not deliver on what the submitter originally sought. Delivery on the original request would in fact take 25 years to materialize.

It was NEC 2017 that introduced the first requirement for an actual arc flash label. Two options were provided. This language was, again in the opinion of this author, extremely flawed. It only pertained to service equipment and in positive language tried to implement a label that mimicked the PPE Category method of NFPA 70E with the wrong parameters. The mistake of thinking that the clearing time of the service OCPD provides information pertinent to the incident energy of service equipment is made. This language changed over time but it wasn’t until NEC 2023 that is was completely addressed. NEC 2023 removed the prescriptive language and replaced it with language that points the user of the Code to industry standards that provide the complete guidance in this regard.

Does NEC 2026 complete the journey of 110.16?

The 2026 update brings simplicity and clarity to Section 110.16 by removing the general hazard warning label requirement and establishing a robust framework for arc flash labeling. The new language mandates a label that:

• Is permanent and either field- or factory-applied.
• Contains essential safety information:
  • Nominal system voltage
  • Arc flash boundary
  • Available incident energy or required PPE
  • Date of the assessment.
• Are clearly visible to qualified personnel and compliant with applicable industry practices.

This mark in reality gets back to the original intent of the public input that began this journey back in 2002.

Why It Matters

Electrical workers will benefit from the enhanced labeling requirements in several key ways:

1. Improved Safety: Clear and accurate arc flash labels provide vital information to workers, helping them make informed decisions about protective measures.
2. Consistency: The move toward standardized labeling eliminates discrepancies and ensures a uniform approach to arc flash hazard communication.
3. Accountability: Including the date of the assessment adds an additional layer of transparency, encouraging regular reviews and updates to the labels.

NEC 2026 puts the electrical industry on the road to create labeled environments where electrical workers need that information the most.

Looking Ahead

As we approach the 2026 code cycle, it’s crucial for contractors, engineers, and facility managers to familiarize themselves with the new requirements. Compliance will not only enhance worker safety but also create labeled environments that align with best practices in the electrical industry.

The evolution of Section 110.16 reflects the NEC’s ongoing commitment to safety and innovation. By embracing these changes, we can build a safer future for all electrical workers.

This requirement will have a rippling effect on the code in the future. The NEC is now. poised to start looking at equipment with regard to the arc flash label and trigger requirements based on an incident energy level. When these labels show high incident energy, should the NEC implement a response? Maybe installation requirements that drive safety for the electrical worker or for reliability and protection of property?

Time will tell.

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