NEC General Requirements and Definitions Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to NEC Article 90, what is the primary purpose of the National Electrical Code?

Accepted Answer

The practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.

Answer

NEC 90.1(A) explicitly states, 'The purpose of this Code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.' It is not intended as a design manual or to ensure efficiency, but to establish a minimum safety standard.

Question 2

An electrical panel is located in a closet, but the door to the closet is locked, and a key is required for access. According to the definition in Article 100, is the equipment inside considered 'Readily Accessible'?

Accepted Answer

Yes, because the use of a key does not prevent the equipment from being considered readily accessible.

Answer

The definition of 'Accessible, Readily' in Article 100 was revised to clarify this exact scenario. It states that equipment is capable of being reached quickly without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to use tools (other than keys). Therefore, a locked door requiring a key does not, by itself, make the equipment not readily accessible.

Question 3

Which of the following best defines a 'Qualified Person' as described in NEC Article 100?

Accepted Answer

One who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training to recognize and avoid the hazards involved.

Answer

NEC Article 100 defines a 'Qualified Person' as: 'One who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training to recognize and avoid the hazards involved.' This definition emphasizes both knowledge/skills and specific safety training, which is more comprehensive than just having a degree or authorization.

Question 4

A new piece of electrical equipment is being installed. According to NEC 110.3(B), what is the installer's responsibility regarding the manufacturer's instructions included with the listed and labeled equipment?

Accepted Answer

The equipment must be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling.

Answer

NEC 110.3(B) requires that listed or labeled equipment shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling. This is a mandatory requirement, ensuring the equipment is used as it was tested and certified for safety.

Question 5

In a commercial building, an electrician needs to install new conductors in a damp location. According to NEC Article 110, which of the following is required?

Accepted Answer

The conductors must be specifically identified for use in damp locations.

Answer

NEC 110.11, Deteriorating Agents, states that unless identified for use in the operating environment, no conductors or equipment shall be located in damp or wet locations or where exposed to other agents that have a deteriorating effect. Therefore, the conductors must be specifically identified (e.g., marked THWN) for this environment.

NEC Practice Test

NEC Practice Test

NEC General Requirements and Definitions Questions and Answers