Separate Neutrals

[GoldDigger]

I don't really see the big deal with the handle tie rule. You are not working on these circuits enough that it should be that big of a deal if you have to shut off 1 or 2 extra circuits to work on it. I still see MWBC as a valuable option and the handle tie rule as a necessary precaution.

It depends a lot on the context and what the two or three branches are serving. In a commercial lighting situation it would be the difference between turning off 1/3 of the lights in an area or all of them.
Also, when resetting a tripped single pole, it is annoying to have to turn off the other branches first, potentially interfering with loads on the other circuit (like computers, for example.)
It can still be worth the inconvenience price, again depending on the exact situation.

 

[synchro]

These circuits were safe when "qualified" persons worked on them. ...
I agree that the handle ties makes things safer for our lesser educated tradesmen, but nothing beats good education. Experience is a horrible teacher. It gives the test first before it delivers the lesson!

I'm in agreement with you.
No question that handle ties on a MWBCs make a contribution to safety. But even with them, there 's a possibility that someone moved some wires between breakers after the initial installation. The requirement to group MWBC conductors with wire ties or labeling helps, but not if someone doesn't take the time to look it over before proceeding. And so appropriate knowledge and care is still important.