Noozer wrote:
"Ben" wrote in message
ups.com...
I thought I was pretty good when it comes to wiring. I thought I knew
enough to be safe and have good quality work when I do it on my own.
Then I learned about shared neutral lines for different hot phases. I
am shocked I never heard of this. No book I ever read mentioned shared
neutrals for household wiring.
Given that a shared neutral is a possibility, I don't understand how
anybody can do electrical work without shutting off power to the
entire house.

When done properly, the two breakers would be tied together, so either both
would be on or off.
I have shared neutrals in my box, done
by the original builder on separate
breakers. I know that doesn't make it
right. BTW, the house is 35 years
old. Also, in my local village hall
building, they have 3 phase shared neutrals
(208 Y connected) and all are separate
breakers. So I don't think there is
a requirement for common trip.