On 9/17/2011 11:40 AM, Dean Hoffman wrote:
In ,
Doug wrote:

On 9/16/2011 6:01 AM, Andy wrote:

The neutral (white) wire is not phase sensitive, so it can come
from
anywhere. However, it will NOT meet code, if that is a concern...

It's not just a question of whether it meets Code or not. This is also a
safety issue. What you propose is dangerous:

The neutral conductor carries the same current as the hot conductor.
When two circuits are cross-connected to use the same neutral, the
current in the neutral is the *sum* of the currents in the two hot legs.
A current of 15 amps in each of two hot legs will result in a 30A
current in the neutral. This risks a fire.

Also, someone working on one circuit and not knowing that the neutral
carries current from a different circuit could receive a fatal shock
from that neutral -- how would he know to shut down both circuits?

Would a multi wire branch circuit meet code and be safe?

Yes, as long as it is installed in compliance with the Code --
specifically, in reference to the OP's question, with all conductors
being in the same cable. A DP breaker will also be required.