Article 380 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 covers multi-outlet assembly, which is an electrical wiring system that includes a factory-assembled wiring assembly with multiple outlets designed to be installed in suspended ceilings, raceways, or other concealed locations. This article provides specific requirements for the installation, use, and maintenance of multi-outlet assemblies to ensure their safe operation.
The primary purpose of Article 380 is to ensure the proper installation and use of multi-outlet assemblies to prevent electrical hazards such as electrical shock and fire. This article specifies the construction, installation, and wiring requirements for multi-outlet assemblies, including the types of conductors, the size and spacing of conductors, the maximum ampacity, and the overcurrent protection requirements.
Section 380.2 of the NEC 2023 defines a multi-outlet assembly as a “listed factory-assembled and wired assembly of outlets and associated components including fittings, which provides power to branch-circuit wiring methods.” This definition includes both exposed and concealed multi-outlet assemblies, such as those used in suspended ceilings or other hidden locations.
Section 380.3 of the NEC 2023 covers the requirements for the construction of multi-outlet assemblies. It requires that multi-outlet assemblies be constructed of materials suitable for the installation location and environment, and that they be listed for the intended use. The conductors used in multi-outlet assemblies must also meet specific requirements for size, insulation, and color-coding.
Section 380.4 covers the installation requirements for multi-outlet assemblies. It specifies that multi-outlet assemblies must be installed in a manner that will not damage the assembly or its conductors. The installation must also be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable NEC requirements.
Section 380.5 of the NEC 2023 covers the wiring requirements for multi-outlet assemblies. It specifies the types of conductors that can be used, including copper or aluminum, and the minimum and maximum sizes of these conductors. The section also specifies the maximum ampacity of the conductors based on the temperature rating of the insulation and the ambient temperature.
Additionally, Article 380 specifies the requirements for overcurrent protection, grounding, and bonding for multi-outlet assemblies. Section 380.6 requires that multi-outlet assemblies be provided with overcurrent protection in accordance with the NEC 2023. The overcurrent protection must be rated to protect the conductors and equipment from damage due to overloads and short circuits.
Section 380.7 requires that multi-outlet assemblies be grounded in accordance with the NEC 2020. The grounding must be done in a manner that will ensure the safe operation of the assembly and prevent electrical shock hazards.
Section 380.8 requires that multi-outlet assemblies be bonded in accordance with the NEC 2023. The bonding must be done in a manner that will ensure the safe operation of the assembly and prevent electrical shock hazards.
In addition to these requirements, Article 380 also specifies the marking and identification requirements for multi-outlet assemblies. Section 380.9 requires that multi-outlet assemblies be marked with the manufacturer’s name or trademark, the voltage and ampere rating, and the listing agency’s name.
Overall, Article 380 of the NEC 2023 provides specific requirements for the installation, use, and maintenance of multi-outlet assemblies to ensure their safe operation. It covers everything from the construction and installation of the assembly to the types of conductors, the size and spacing of conductors, the maximum ampacity, and the overcurrent protection, grounding, and bonding requirements. By following these requirements, electrical professionals can ensure the safe and reliable operation of multi-outlet assemblies in a variety of settings.