Supplementary overcurrent protection for luminaires may serve as a substitute for required branch-circuit protection. True or False?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only for outdoor luminaires
• D. Only when installed by an electrician

Answer: (A)

Supplementary overcurrent protection for luminaires can substitute for required branch-circuit protection when the luminaire itself is listed to provide that protection. Some luminaires are designed with internal overcurrent protection or are listed specifically to rely on their own protective device rather than a separate breaker at the panel. If the fixture is listed for this use and the protection rating is properly matched to the conductors and installation, it satisfies the branch-circuit protection requirement for that circuit. The key factor is the listing and the manufacturer's instructions, not whether the luminaire is outdoor or who installed it. So the statement is true.