Code Alert

Barriers are needed in boxes containing receptacles and switches of different voltages.

A new subsection [Sec. 406.4(G)] now prohibits the installation of receptacles with other switches and receptacles in the same box if the voltage between the devices exceeds 300V. This can happen when a receptacle connected to a 120V circuit and a snap switch connected to a 277V circuit are mounted in the same box. You can get around this by using "enclosures equipped with barriers identified for the purpose that are securely installed between adjacent devices." This addition was made to add consistency to barrier requirements contained in Sec. 404.8(B) for switches mounted in the same box and connected to different voltages.