Change Summary

• Section 600.6(A)(1) is a significant worker safety issue requiring a sign disconnect where the circuit(s) enter the sign enclosure or pole
• This safety-driven change simplifies worker compliance with both NFPA 70E and OSHA rules
• A new 600.6(A)(1) has been added to 600.6(A) and previous subdivisions (1) and (2) have been changed to (2) and (3)

Expert Analysis

The substantiation for this change points to a need for additional electrical safeguards for sign workers. In reality, sign supply conductors are often installed within a sign enclosure and run to the supply side of the randomly located disconnect mounted on the sign. These line-side supply conductors located within the sign enclosure remain energized whether or not the sign disconnect is turned off. Only the conductors from the load-side of the sign disconnect to the sign supply terminals are de-energized when the disconnect is opened. This practice exposes sign worker(s) to serious electrical hazards. Previous installation requirements did not specifically require all ungrounded conductors to be de-energized before entering a sign body or enclosure. Now, this new requirement of 600.6(A)(1) specifically requires the disconnecting means to be located at the point the feeder circuit or branch circuit(s) supplying a sign enters the sign enclosure or a supporting pole. Furthermore, the disconnecting means must disconnect all wiring where it enters the enclosure of the sign or pole. However, a practical and limited exception provides latitude to permit energized conductors within a sign only if they are installed using a Chapter 3 wiring method.

Outdoor Switching

Leviton offers a unique solution for outdoor switching with catalog number COVER-S.  This switch cover can actuate any traditional 15A-40A Toggle switch including Manual Motor Starters.

• Mounts in any FD or FS Box and can accommodate multi gang applications.
• Provides NEMA (4, 4X and 12) and IEC (IP 66) watertight protection  for indoor and outdoor environments in critical application areas that are routinely subject to moisture, vapor, dirt, mud, and other contaminant exposure, including high-pressure washdown.
• We offer a variety of covers, including this industry exclusive toggle switch cover, blank cover plates, and covers to 15A, 20A, and 30A single receptacles
• Easily operated with wet and/or gloved hands, and provides OSHA compliant lockout/tagout capabilities