1 Scope

1.1 These requirements cover office furnishing panels, study carrels, work stations, and pedestal-style systems that form an office furnishing system in accordance with the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70. These are able to be provided with an electrical distribution system, including switches, convenience outlets, and channels for routing communication cables within system components separate from electrical raceways. Office furnishing systems include filing cabinets, desks, work surfaces, shelves, storage units, and similar items that have a particular electrical or mechanical function unique to an office furnishing system.

1.2 These requirements also cover lighting units intended to be mechanically attached to particular components within an individual device or office furnishing system.

1.3 These requirements also cover modular pre-wired office furnishing wiring systems.

1.4 These requirements do not cover panels that are intended to penetrate the ceiling, or that are used to support the building structure.

1.5 These requirements also cover office furnishing systems intended for mounting to building structures for stability or support.

1.6 Individual commercial office furnishings are covered by UL 2999. These products may include, but are not limited to:

1. a) Desks;

2. b) Tables;

3. c) Conference room tables;

4. d) Bookcases;

5. e) Storage cabinets; and

6. f) Motorized carts and stands for audio/video equipment; and

7. g) Benching Systems.

The above products may be provided with modesty and privacy screens.

SUMMARY OF TOPICS

This revision of ANSI/UL 1286 dated August 31, 2023 includes the following changes in requirements:

– Addition Of Requirements To Address Risk Of Personal Injury From Low Level Panels And Screens; 2.23A, 2.33A, 5.2, 18.2A.1, 18.2A.2, Table 18.1, 18.2A.3, 18.2A.4, and 39.11.

– Revision of Requirements To Clarify How Channels Are Defined; 2.6, 3.10, 18.4, 18.4.1, 38.12, 38.13, and 39.6.

– Revisions To Expand The Definition Of Raceway To Align It With The NEC And Industry Definition And To Clarify The Application of Requirements Involving Raceways; 2.17, 2.29, 10.1.3, 11.10, 13.2.6, and 18.5.1.

– Revisions To Add A Reference To European Requirements As Alternative Compliance Criteria For Non-Shattering Glass; 5.2 and 18.7.1.

– Revision To And Addition Of Marking Requirements To Add A Reference To UL 969A, Flag Labels, Flag Tags, Wrap-around Labels and Related Products, To Provide Alternate Marking Requirements For Labels; 38.1 and 38.1A.

– Revisions That Allow For A Cord-Connected System To Be Provided With 14 AWG Cord And A 15 A Plug; 10.3.2, 10.3.4, 10.3.5, and 38.19.

– Revisions To UL 94 HB Flammability Requirements For Non-Electrical Parts; 2.13A, 18.9.2, and 18.9.3.