What does the NEC require for identifying single conductor or multiconductor cable?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires specific methods for identifying conductors to ensure safety and proper functionality in electrical systems. Marking to distinguish ungrounded conductors is essential because it helps prevent confusion when working with electrical systems and ensures safe connections. Ungrounded conductors, also referred to as hot or live wires, must be clearly marked to indicate their status and avoid accidental contact with live parts.

This requirement is particularly important in installations where multiple conductors of different functions may be present, allowing electricians to safely identify which wires carry current and which do not. Proper marking aids not only in installation but also in maintenance and troubleshooting by ensuring that anyone working on the system can easily recognize the role of each conductor.

While color coding is a common practice for identifying conductors, the NEC emphasizes the need for specific markings to distinguish certain types of wires. This can sometimes go beyond just color to also include unique numbers, letters, or other indicators. Labeling wires serves a purpose but doesn't necessarily encompass all ungrounded conductors' identification needs in accordance with NEC requirements, and providing strapping does not address the identification requirements directly. Thus, marking ungrounded conductors is the focus of NEC regulations for conductor identification.