Fixture Wires

Fixture wires must be approved for the voltage, temperature, and location of their use. A fixture wire that is used as a grounded conductor must be identified.

Fixture wires may be used only for the following purposes:

• Installation in lighting fixtures and in similar equipment where they are enclosed or protected and are not subject to bending or twisting in use
• Connecting lighting fixtures to the branch-circuit conductors that supply the fixtures

Fixture wires cannot be used as branch-circuit conductors unless under Class 1 power-limited circuits.

Fixtures, lamps, rosettes, and receptacles cannot have live parts that are typically exposed to employee contact. Portable handlamps supplied through flexible cords must have a safe handle and safety guard.

Fixtures, lamps, rosettes, and receptacles must be securely supported. A fixture that weighs more than six pounds or that exceeds 16 inches in any dimension cannot be supported by the screw shell of a lamp holder.

Fixtures installed in wet or damp locations must be identified for the purpose and must be constructed or installed so that water cannot enter or accumulate in electrical parts.

To learn more about Construction Electrical Safety visit our Construction Electrical Safety Online Training web page.