If a branch circuit meets the specifications of Article 210, it may be used as a multiwire circuit and all conductors must originate from what?

• A. The same panelboard
• B. A separate panelboard
• C. The main service equipment
• D. Any approved enclosure

Answer: (A)

In multiwire branch circuits, all conductors must originate from the same panelboard so there is a single point of control for disconnecting the entire circuit. This arrangement ensures that the two ungrounded conductors and the shared neutral can be de-energized together with a common trip or tied breakers. That way, maintenance or fault conditions won’t leave part of the MWBC energized, which could create shock hazards or backfeed through the neutral. If the conductors came from different panelboards, you could not guarantee a simultaneous disconnect for all conductors, which is why this requirement exists.