Okay, let's break down the question and the potential meaning behind that note.

Understanding the Question

The question is whether "critical and life safety panels" should be classified as "Emergency" (EM) circuits, requiring conduit installation based on a specific note.

Understanding "Critical and Life Safety Panels"

These panels generally power equipment essential for: Life Safety

Ensuring the safe evacuation and well-being of occupants during emergencies. Examples include emergency lighting, fire alarm systems, and smoke control systems.

Critical Operations

Maintaining essential building functions or operations during a power outage. Examples include medical equipment in hospitals, data centers, or security systems.

Understanding "Emergency (EM) Circuits"

EM circuits are specifically designed to provide power to critical equipment when the normal power supply fails. They are often powered by generators or battery backup systems.

The Note: "All EM circuits to be in conduit"

This note implies a specific requirement for physical protection of EM circuits. Conduit provides a robust, fire-resistant pathway for wiring, protecting it from physical damage and fire hazards.

Answering the Question: Are Critical and Life Safety Panels Considered EM Circuits?The answer is often YES, but not always automatically.

Here's why: Life safety systems almost always require emergency power. Fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, and exit signs must function during a power outage. This is typically mandated by building codes (NFPA 101, IBC, etc.) and electrical codes (NEC). Therefore, the circuits feeding these systems are likely to be EM circuits. Critical systems may require emergency power. Whether a critical system (e.g., hospital equipment, security system) needs emergency power depends on its specific function and applicable regulations or standards. For example, a hospital emergency room must have emergency power.* Local Codes and Standards. Local codes and regulations are the supreme authority and will dictate the requirements for emergency power and wiring methods for critical and life safety systems.

How to Determine if a Circuit Needs Conduit Based on the "EM Circuit" Designation1. Consult the Project Specifications/Drawings

The specifications should explicitly state which systems and circuits are classified as "Emergency" and subject to the conduit requirement. Look for sections on emergency power systems, life safety systems, or fire protection systems. The drawings should indicate the circuits and their wiring methods (e.g., conduit type).2.

Review Applicable Codes and Standards

Refer to the National Electrical Code (NEC), International Building Code (IBC), NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), and any local amendments or regulations. These documents will specify which systems require emergency power and may have requirements for wiring methods.3.

Clarify with the Engineer or Designer

If there is any ambiguity, directly ask the electrical engineer or designer responsible for the project. They can provide a definitive answer on whether specific circuits are classified as "Emergency" and require conduit installation.

In summary, determine if circuits for the critical and life safety panels are classified as Emergency (EM) circuits according to the project specifications, applicable codes, and consultation with the project engineer. If they are classified as EM circuits, the note "All EM circuits to be in conduit" dictates that they must be installed in conduit. Flag for review