NFPA 70B and NEC 2023: New Labeling Rules Every Data Center Must Follow

Modern data centers are under intense pressure to meet new safety and maintenance requirements. Recent updates to NFPA 70B, the National Electrical Code (NEC 2023), and OSHA safety standards have turned what used to be “recommended labeling” into mandatory law.

If your facility doesn’t meet these standards, you’re at risk of fines, shutdowns, and failed inspections. The era of optional labels is over—clear, durable identification is now required for every electrical component, cable tray, and power distribution unit in a data center.

NFPA 70B: From Suggested Practice to Enforceable Standard

The 2023 revision of NFPA 70B—the Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance—transformed it from a loose guideline into an enforceable requirement. The language now uses “shall” instead of “should,” meaning compliance isn’t optional.

This update requires data centers to maintain a formal Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP). Part of that program includes a labeling system showing the condition of each piece of electrical equipment after maintenance.

NFPA 70B now mandates a color-coded decal system:

• White – Serviceable and in good condition

• Yellow – Limited service, due for maintenance soon

• Red – Nonserviceable, do not operate until repaired

Each label must display the maintenance date and technician verification, creating a traceable “sticker trail” of compliance.

While NFPA 70B isn’t technically federal law, OSHA uses it as an enforcement benchmark. Under OSHA’s General Duty Clause, inspectors can issue citations if an electrical incident occurs and your facility lacks NFPA 70B-compliant maintenance and labeling. In other words, ignoring 70B can now count as a violation of OSHA law.

NEC 2023 and NFPA 70E Tighten Labeling Across the Board

The National Electrical Code (NEC) has always required identification of electrical systems, but the 2023 edition makes labeling even more critical.

Key updates include:

• NEC 110.17 links equipment maintenance labeling directly to NFPA 70B requirements.

• NEC 408.4(A) demands that every panelboard have a complete circuit directory.

• NEC 110.21(B) requires all labels to be permanent, durable, and weather-resistant—cheap stickers no longer qualify.

Additionally, NEC 110.16 and NFPA 70E expand arc flash labeling requirements. Any electrical service or feeder equipment rated 1,000 amps or higher must display hazard information, including:

• System voltage

• Available fault current

• Protective device clearing time

• Date of the analysis

These details help workers determine Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) levels and safe working distances. If your labels are faded or missing, you’re out of compliance—and OSHA can fine you.

Global Standards Emphasize the Same Message

The labeling push isn’t limited to the U.S. The European Union’s Directive 92/58/EEC also requires employers to display standardized safety signs wherever hazards exist. Similarly, the IEC 60364 standards for electrical installations demand circuit and equipment identification.

In data centers worldwide, structured labeling systems like ANSI/TIA-606 and ISO/IEC 14763-2 define best practices for cable management. Many U.S. builders now follow these global frameworks to maintain consistency and reliability.

Why Data Center Builders and Contractors Must Act Now

For data center builders, contractors, and engineers, these labeling requirements are no longer an afterthought—they’re a core compliance obligation.

Electrical contractors must now ensure:

• All panels, disconnects, and switches have engraved nameplates.

• Arc flash labels and warning signs meet NEC 110.21(B) durability standards.

• All markings remain legible and permanent under high heat, humidity, and airflow.

Engraved phenolic or anodized aluminum tags are becoming the industry standard because they resist fading, corrosion, and solvents for decades.

Failing to label properly can trigger failed inspections, OSHA citations, or even forced shutdowns. Worse, an unmarked disconnect or switch can endanger technicians, leading to serious injuries or liability claims.

Engraved Labels: The Gold Standard for Compliance

The 2023 code cycle makes one thing clear: printed labels are not enough. To meet NEC and OSHA requirements, data centers need engraved or industrial-grade labels designed to last.

Durable engraved tags provide:

• Long-term legibility in harsh environments

• Compatibility with NFPA 70B’s color-coded maintenance decals

• Customization for hazard data, QR codes, and serial tracking

• Professional, standardized appearance for inspections and audits

Creating a labeling plan early in design can prevent costly retrofits. It should include a complete matrix of label types, placement, and materials, plus a final audit before commissioning.

The Bottom Line: Noncompliance Is Costly—Preparation Is Cheaper

New standards like NFPA 70B and NEC 2023 have transformed labeling from an afterthought into a legal requirement. Failing to comply can lead to:

• OSHA fines and citations

• Failed NEC inspections

• Costly rework or downtime

• Safety incidents and liability exposure

By investing in a compliant, professional labeling program now, data center owners can avoid penalties, protect workers, and pass inspections with confidence.

We Can Help

At TagBuilder by Solid Ideas Engraving, we specialize in NFPA- and NEC-compliant engraved labels for data centers, electrical contractors, and OEMs. Our durable phenolic and metal nameplates meet all code requirements for permanence and clarity—so you stay compliant and audit-ready.

Visit TagBuilder.net to learn how we can help you design a labeling system that meets every new standard—and keeps your data center safe, compliant, and professional.