DPST Toggle Switches

[jrohe]

We have a project in design where the Owner wants to do things as cheaply as possible and there are at least ten lighting circuits in one area. Instead of having ten light switches, they want to use five DPST switches.

Does anyone know of any reason, Code or otherwise, that a DPST toggle switch such as a Hubbell #CSB220W cannot be used to control two different 120 volt lighting circuits or two different 277 volt lighting circuits where each circuit is protected by a 20A/1P breaker?

I can see where it is not the best idea because if the switch ever goes bad and the Contractor switches one of circuit's breaker off but not the other breaker, the switch would still be energized. However, this can be easily remedied by using a handle tie between the breakers.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[iwire]

Yes I know a reason

As odd as it sounds most if not all are marked single circuit only.

 

[jumper]

A handle tie or 2 pole breaker would be required.

210.7 Multiple Branch Circuits.
Where two or more
branch circuits supply devices or equipment on the same
yoke or mounting strap, a means to simultaneously discon-
nect the ungrounded conductors supplying those devices
shall be provided at the point at which the branch circuits
originate

Switch would need to be listed for more than one circuit.

404.8 Accessibility and Grouping.
(C) Multipole Snap Switches.
A multipole, general-use
snap switch shall not be permitted to be fed from more than
a single circuit unless it is listed and marked as a two-
circuit or three-circuit switch

 

[jrohe]

Perfect! I really did not want to do what the Owner was asking because it just smelled wrong. I did not know that most are only marked as single circuit only. I knew about 210.7 but glanced right over 404.8(C). :slaphead:

Thanks so much iwire and jumper!

 

[petersonra]

A typical light switch is only a few dollars. It is hard to get any cheaper than that. You could just skip the light switches entriely and use the Cb in the breaker box to turn the lights on and off. Not all that uncommon in some offices.

 

[JFletcher]

Consolidating circuits, if possible, would be the cheapest option. If he thinks switches are expensive, wait until he sees the cost of 5+ gang boxes, plaster rings, and cover plates.

 

[mopowr steve]

How about contactor(s)

 

[jrohe]

How about contactor(s)

That is exactly what we are doing now. Quite honestly, we have tried talking them into a relay panel and low voltage switches like an LC&D Bluebox and Chelsea switches, but they think it's going to be too difficult to program.:blink: