Can cables and conductors of Class 2 circuits be placed in a cable compartment with conductors of non-power-limited fire alarm circuits?

Cables and conductors of Class 2 circuits must not be placed in the same cable compartment as conductors of non-power-limited fire alarm circuits due to safety and code compliance concerns. Class 2 circuits are designed to carry low voltage and limited power levels, which are intended to minimize the risk of electrical shock and fire. Conversely, non-power-limited fire alarm circuits typically operate under different requirements and may carry higher voltages and more power.

The potential risk arises from the possibility of electrical interference and the failure to maintain the necessary separation that ensures the safety and integrity of both systems. Relevant codes, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), establish distinct requirements for the installation of different classes of circuits to ensure they do not adversely affect one another.

By prohibiting the combination of these circuits within the same compartment, the regulations help ensure that power-limited systems function properly without being compromised by higher voltage systems. This separation helps maintain the safety and reliability of the fire alarm systems, which are critical for life safety.