The 5-gang box partitions question: The NEC requires partitions be installed between which adjacent switches?

• A. II & IV only
• B. II only
• C. IV only
• D. I, II, III, & IV

Answer: (C)

In a multi‑gang box, partitions are used to keep adjacent devices electrically separated to prevent arcing and to minimize heat transfer between circuits. The NEC requires a barrier between switches that are on different circuits or that could otherwise create a risk if their terminations and conductors are in close proximity in the same box.

In this particular layout, only the gap in the location marked fourth requires a partition because that pair of adjacent switches is associated with different circuits (or otherwise presents a separation need) while the other gaps do not. The other adjacent positions don’t require a barrier under the given circuit arrangement, so installing partitions there isn’t required by code. That’s why the correct choice identifies only the fourth location.