IEEE 2789-2025

This guide provides information for the selection and application of cables installed in enclosed, underground transit infrastructure in the United States and Canada, excluding cables used on railway vehicles and rolling stock. This guide is not a cable design document, although its use may avoid many of the problems associated with the application of cables for transit infrastructure.

The purpose of this document is to provide guidance for the selection and application of cables that are used in enclosed, underground transit infrastructure in the United States and Canada. This guide explains the cable construction, common applications and applicable industry standards. In this capacity, it contains references and a cross-reference list of standards as they apply to the wire and cable industry. It provides application guidelines for the various cable types as they relate to chemical, electrical, mechanical, optical, physical, and thermal properties and with consideration for their environments.

New IEEE Standard - Active. Cable requirements for enclosed transit infrastructure in the USA and Canada are explained in this guide. Public underground systems for passenger transport, such as metro tunnels and stations, are the primary focus. The adoption of the NFPA 130-2023 standard by transit authorities and wire and cable requirements for different applications is discussed. Open/aboveground transit infrastructure, rolling stock, or railway vehicles are not addressed in this guide. Considerations by NFPA 130-2023 for flame propagation, smoke release, and circuit-integrity are detailed. Various cable types, including general purpose, fire-resistive, train signaling, traction power, communication, and antenna cables are discussed. Emphasis is placed on compliance with Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) listings such as wet ratings, conductor temperature ratings, and flame propagation standards.