Under what condition can luminaires be used as a raceway for circuit conductors?

Luminaires can be utilized as a raceway for circuit conductors only under specific conditions mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC). One of the primary conditions is that the luminaires must be listed and marked for such use. This certification ensures that the luminaires have undergone testing and meet safety standards for housing electrical conductors within them while still functioning effectively as light fixtures.

This provision is crucial because it helps ensure not only the integrity of the electrical installation but also the safety of the occupants by minimizing risks such as overheating or electrical shorts. The correct classification as a raceway means that the manufacturer has designed the luminaire to support the additional electrical connections safely.

In contrast, merely painting luminaires a specific color has no bearing on their function or safety concerning conductors. Similarly, the location of luminaires in living spaces does not inherently qualify them to serve as raceways. Lastly, while LED technology has many benefits, it does not change the requirement regarding luminaire classification without the proper listing and marking for raceway use. Therefore, the distinction that luminaires must be appropriately tested and labeled is vital for compliance with safety regulations in electrical installations.