Understanding furniture codes: Guidelines for safe and compliant installation

by tanya_martins | February 28, 2025 1:33 pm

By Kathleen Neighbors

A modern office space with a long table on wheels, equipped with dividers and electronic devices.[1]
Photos courtesy Legrand

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.

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Power codes refer to regulations and standards governing the design, installation, and use of electrical systems and devices within commercial spaces, such as power strips and furniture-mounted outlets.

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.

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.

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.

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

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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.

Endnotes:
  1. [Image]: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Legrand-13.jpg
  2. [Image]: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Legrand-8.jpg
  3. [Image]: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kathleen-Headshot.jpg

Source URL: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/understanding-furniture-codes/