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The 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC) marks a significant milestone in the evolution of arc flash labeling in Section 110.16. What began nearly 25 years ago as a simple warning requirement is now maturing into a clearly defined framework that’s better aligned with the realities of electrical safety and maintenance. But is this evolution complete? I don’t think so, but I do believe we’re much closer.
The big change to NEC 2026 Section 110.16 was the removal of the generic hazard warning label requirement. Now, the Section’s title has been simplified to be “Arc-Flash Hazard Marking.” Additionally, the previous two subdivisions (A) General and (B) Service Equipment and Feeder Supplied Equipment, have been consolidated into a single 110.16 section that simply states the labeling requirement.
Now we’re getting something more actionable: a mandate for a permanent label that provides critical arc flash information where it matters most — directly on the equipment that’s being serviced.
1200-amp (A) service equipment and feeder-supplied equipment (in other than dwelling units) previously required these types of labels, but now those qualifiers have been removed. This means equipment like switchboards, switchgear, enclosed panelboards, motor control centers and many more common electrical components will need arc flash labeling.
The new requirement calls for arc flash labels that are:
I believe it is important to understand that this label isn't just a sticker, it's a safety tool. Although the update requires arc flash labeling for equipment that is “likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing or maintenance while energized,” there are many maintenance tasks mandated by The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70B Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance that requires equipment to be energized.
Additionally, because even the act of establishing an electrically safe working condition (verifying the absence of voltage) is considered energized work by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is there really such a thing as non-energized work? OSHA states that deenergizing is just one step toward an electrically safe working condition, and it does not eliminate electrical hazards. From my perspective, this means arc flash labeling should be included on all applicable equipment.
To understand why this update matters, it's helpful to revisit the history of the Section. The first proposal for arc flash labeling came in 2002, at a time when Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 1584 had just established methods for calculating incident energy. However, that proposal was rejected, and a compromise was reached to mandate a generic hazard label warning for potential arc flash risk.
Fast forward to today, and we're finally catching up. In my opinion, this is an important step forward – because if you’re investing the time and resources to calculate and reduce incident energy, why wouldn’t you communicate your findings at the location where it matters most?
The NEC doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It is tied directly to NFPA and OSHA regulations to establish a more comprehensive framework for electrical safety.
NFPA 70E 130.5(H) requires that your arc flash analysis be reviewed at least every 5 years, and that the methodology used is documented. That’s why the date of assessment on the label is so critical, it’s a visual cue that starts the 5-year clock. NFPA 70B Section 6.7 also supports this timeline, noting that updates are needed whenever system changes occur.
The presence of the date also holds facilities accountable to regular updates. This change is more than regulatory. We’re acknowledging that a well-labeled system is a safer one. But it also introduces new design and maintenance responsibilities.
For one, you’ll need qualified personnel to perform detailed arc flash studies, not just the short circuit study. This is especially important in large facilities or data centers, where overcurrent protective devices (OCPDs) are oversized for coordination purposes and incident energy can skyrocket. That’s why we’ve seen some of the largest industrial organizations in the world cap incident energy at 8 cal/cm², which is a proactive approach that goes beyond the code.
Is the NEC 2026 Section 110.16 update the final evolution of arc flash labeling? I don’t think so. I think there is still much left to interpretation. For example, does every small electrical component (like a 30A disconnect) require labeling? Well, the code doesn’t specifically exclude it. Combined with the shrinking footprint of electrical equipment, how do you find a clearly visible way to fit all the required information on a label?
You’ll need to work closely with your local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) to determine what is needed for your facility. I think you can also expect continued clarification from the NEC as the related committee continues to harmonize with other standards bodies.
At its core, it is important to remember that the NEC is all about installation and physical safety. The NFPA 70E tells you how to work safely. Together, they support OSHA’s broader mission to keep workers safe.
This latest update to Section 110.16 strengthens this bond and emphasizes the fact that safety doesn’t end with design. Instead, it should be approached as an organizational mission that that demands ongoing attention, updates and communication. And now, thanks to the NEC, we’re establishing a better way to communicate arc flash risks where it matters most.
