5 Means Of Identifying Grounded Conductors (By NEC 200 Article)

Determining grounded conductors // NEC 200

Latest NEC requirements state at least five means of identifying grounded conductors. So, let’s go through each of them //

1. Sizes 6 AWG or smaller
2. Sizes 4 AWG or larger
3. Flexible cords
4. Grounded conductors of different systems
5. Grounded conductors of multiconductor cables

1. Sizes 6 AWG or Smaller

An insulated grounded conductor of 6 AWG or smaller must be identified by one of the following means //

1. A continuous white outer finish.
2. A continuous gray outer finish.
3. Three continuous white or gray stripes along the conductor’s entire length on other than green insulation.
4. Wires that have their outer covering finished to show a white or gray color but have colored tracer threads in the braid identifying the source of manufacture must be considered as meeting the provisions of this section.
5. The grounded conductor of a mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed cable (Type MI) must be identified at the time of installation by distinctive marking at its terminations.
6. A single-conductor, sunlight-resistant, outdoor-rated cable used as a grounded conductor in photovoltaic power systems, as permitted by 690.31 (article about permitted wiring methods), must be identified at the time of installation by distinctive white marking at all terminations.
7. Fixture wire must comply with the requirements for grounded conductor identification as specified in 402.8 (see below)
8. For aerial cable, the identification must be as above, or by means of a ridge located on the exterior of the cable so as to identify it.

Article 402.8 Grounded Conductor Identification – Fixture wires that are intended to be used as grounded conductors must be identified by one or more continuous white stripes on other than green insulation.

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