NEC 2026 Section 110.16 Expands Arc-Flash Labeling Requirements
- Brian Hall
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 27
NEC 2026 Section 110.16 update series
The 2026 edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC) introduces major updates to Section 110.16 – Arc-Flash Hazard Marking, broadening the range of electrical equipment that must display arc-flash hazard labels.
Hazard Labels Now Required on a Wider Variety of Equipment
In previous NEC editions, labeling was only required on service equipment or feeder-supplied equipment rated 1,000 amps or higher.
Under NEC 2026 Section 110.16, the rule now applies to much more:
Switchboards and switchgear
Enclosed panelboards
Industrial control panels
Meter socket enclosures
Motor control centers
These updates cover any equipment likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized.
Starting in 2026, arc-flash hazard warnings need to be applied to far more components in commercial and industrial facilities so workers have the vital information they need before performing tasks near energized conductors or circuit parts.
However, because the NEC is not retroactive, these new requirements apply only to new installations or major modifications completed after the 2026 edition takes effect.
Closer Alignment with NFPA 70E® (2024 Edition)
A key goal of the new code language is to align NEC 2026 Section 110.16 with NFPA 70E-2024, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
The two standards now work together more closely to ensure that arc-flash labels support safe work practices.
Each arc flash label must include the following information:
Nominal system voltage
Arc-flash boundary
Available incident energy or minimum required PPE level
Date the arc flash analysis was completed
The last arc flash analysis date is a crucial element of compliance. It connects directly to NFPA 70E® 130.5(G) and NFPA 70B Chapter 6, both of which require that arc-flash risk assessments be reviewed at intervals not exceeding five years.
Regular reviews ensure that labels stay accurate as electrical systems evolve. Even if you’ve had an arc flash analysis less than 5 years ago but are expecting to make changes or additions to your equipment, you may be required to get a new arc flash analysis.
Why Training Matters More Than Ever
Labels save lives only when people understand them.
As more equipment carries detailed arc-flash information, training becomes even more essential to help workers read, interpret, and apply what they see.
Effective electrical safety training should teach your employees how to:
Identify the equipment’s nominal voltage
Understand the arc-flash boundary and how to stay outside it
Choose the correct PPE based on the label
Recognize when labels must be reviewed or replaced
When your workers can confidently interpret arc-flash labels, they make safer decisions even in high-risk environments.
How to Prepare for NEC 2026 Section 110.16
To stay ahead of the 2026 code changes, facility and safety managers should act now:
Review existing labeling practices and determine which equipment will require updates.
Plan for a new or revised arc-flash analysis to ensure all data is accurate.
Verify that all new labels meet both NEC 2026 and NFPA 70E® requirements.
Integrate label interpretation into ongoing electrical safety training programs.
Doing so will ensure your facility is ready — not just for compliance, but for safer daily operations.
The Bottom Line
The expanded requirements in NEC 2026 Section 110.16 encourage a stronger culture of electrical safety. By ensuring accurate, standardized labeling and comprehensive worker training, you can protect lives and strengthen your company’s compliance foundation.
Get Ready for NEC 2026 Section 110.16
The new arc-flash labeling requirements will soon take effect — make sure your facility is ready. Guidant Power can help you assess your current labeling, update your arc-flash risk analyses, and train your employees to understand and apply label information correctly.
70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®, NFPA 70®, NEC®, and National Electrical Code® are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA. All rights reserved. This informational material is not affiliated with nor has it been reviewed or approved by the NFPA.
