406.13 Single-Pole Separable-Connector Type.
Code Change Summary: New code section provides requirements for single-pole separable connectors.
NEC Article 406 is all about receptacles, cord connectors, and attachment plugs yet it has never provided any installation requirements for single-pole separable connectors which are very common, especially on stage sets or with temporary events.
In the 2020 NEC®, section 406.13 was added to address single-pole separable connectors. Language from Article 520 for theaters, motion picture, television studios, and similar locations was used when creating the new requirements in 406.13.
UL 1691 Single Pole Locking-Type Separable Connectors contains the criteria for the construction, performance, and marking requirements to certify single-pole separable connectors.
Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2020 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.
2017 Code Language:
This code section did not exist.
2020 Code Language:
N 406.13 Single-Pole Separable-Connector Type. Single-pole separable connectors shall be listed and labeled and shall comply with 406.13(A) through (D).
N 406.13(A) Locking or Latching Type. Single-pole separable connectors shall be of either the locking or latching type and marked with the manufacturer’s name or identification and voltage and ampere ratings.
N 406.13(B) Identification. Connectors designated for connection to the grounded circuit conductor shall be identified by a white-colored housing; connectors designated for connection to the grounding circuit conductor shall be identified by a green-colored housing.