By Kathleen Neighbors
In today’s modern commercial spaces, access to convenient power, charging, and data is an essential amenity for businesses to accommodate the diverse needs of both employees and patrons. With the proliferation of electrical devices in day-to-day tasks, there is an increasing demand for seamless access to power sources without compromising aesthetics or safety.
Power codes refer to the set of regulations and standards governing the design, installation, and use of electrical systems and devices, such as power strips and furniture-mounted outlets, within commercial spaces. These codes ensure power solutions are not only functional but also safe, compliant with national electrical safety standards, and integrated with the overall design of a space.
As businesses grow and evolve, developing a comprehensive understanding of furniture power codes becomes crucial for offering safe, compliant, and high-quality power solutions. Familiarity with these codes enables businesses to implement furniture power solutions that align with design preferences and adhere to strict regulatory standards for electrical safety.
A deep dive into the essential codes governing the installation and use of furniture power devices will provide valuable insights. This includes exploring key UL listings, differentiating various mounting options, understanding overcurrent protection, and addressing best practices regarding daisy chaining. Equipped with this knowledge, professionals can deliver high-quality, safe, and compliant power solutions tailored to the demands of modern commercial environments.
Understanding UL Listings: UL962A versus UL1363
UL962A and UL1363 are two important safety standards established for furniture power products. Although they both apply to furniture power sources, understanding their fundamental differences is essential for appropriate product selection, safety compliance, earning customers’ trust, and demonstrating knowledge of industry standards.
- UL962A: Used to evaluate Furniture Power Distribution Units (FPDUs), emphasizing fire resistance and grounding integrity. Compliance with UL962A helps prevent common electrical hazards, such as fires or shocks, encountered in furniture with built-in electrical components.
- UL1363: Pertains to Relocatable Power Taps (RPTs) and focuses on surge protection capability and insulation. It sets specific criteria for construction materials of these devices to help minimize the risk of fire and electrical shock hazards.
The question of daisy chaining
In the context of furniture power, daisy chaining refers to the practice of connecting multiple FPDUs or RPTs in a series. It is often used for convenience, as it allows the reach of a single power source to be extended to various devices without additional outlets.
Despite the convenience, daisy chaining is discouraged by both UL962A and UL1363. Both standards specify these devices should be directly connected to a permanently installed branch circuit receptacle outlet and not be daisy-chained to other FPDUs or RPTs. Educating customers on this furniture power best practice is crucial as it helps prioritize safety and adherence to proper installation practices that prevent dangerous hazards and accidents.
Several brands now offer compliant furniture power solutions specifically listed to be connected.
Differentiating mounting options
FPDUs and RPTs have different applications and characteristics. The main difference is how the devices are intended to be utilized and installed.
- FPDUs are designed for fixed installation within portable or stationary furniture, such as desks, tables, and cabinets. They provide a reliable power supply for cord- and plug-connected devices, seamlessly integrating into the furniture’s design. FPDUs are ideal for settings where a permanent, organized power solution is required.
- RPTs are portable and not meant for permanent installation. Commonly used as power strips or extension cords, RPTs are designed for temporary power distribution, allowing them to be easily moved and repositioned as needed. They are versatile solutions for environments where power needs may change frequently or where a fixed installation is impractical.
Overcurrent protection versus surge protection
Safeguarding furniture power sources requires understanding two key concepts: overcurrent and surge protection. Each serves a distinct purpose in protecting electrical systems and devices. Knowing the difference is crucial for choosing the right solutions for any furniture power setup.
- Overcurrent protection safeguards furniture power sources and connected devices from damage caused by excessive current flow. This protection is achieved through devices such as circuit breakers or fuses interrupting the circuit when necessary.
- Surge protection: safeguards electronic devices such as computers and TVs from voltage surges and spikes.
UL962A and UL1363 require overcurrent protection in specific circumstances, such as products with multiple receptacles and certain conductor gauges.
Furniture power solutions crafted for a connected world
In today’s technology-dependent world, designing commercial spaces with configurable and convenient power, data, and charging is more important than ever. Becoming well-versed in furniture power codes will help provide expert guidance to customers, helping them navigate complex installation requirements and select furniture power pieces that integrate seamlessly with new or existing electrical systems.
Author
Kathleen Neighbors is a product manager for furniture power and raceway solutions at Legrand Wiremold. She leads product development and marketing strategy for electrical furniture accessories within the commercial office and hospitality markets.
Key Takeaways
Understanding power codes is essential for ensuring safe, compliant, and effective furniture power solutions in modern commercial spaces. Key standards, such as UL962A and UL1363, provide safety guidelines for various power devices, ensuring they meet important requirements for fire prevention, electrical shock protection, and surge safeguarding. Following best practices, including avoiding daisy chaining and selecting appropriate mounting options and protection measures, is crucial for maintaining safety and ensuring the long-term functionality of power systems.
