Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

How many sections of a cable tray need to be grounded according to NEC?

1. Only the sections nearest the terminations

2. All sections must be bonded

3. Only the sections not connecting to a junction box

4. Only one section needs grounding

The correct answer is: All sections must be bonded

All sections of a cable tray must be bonded in order to ensure safety and compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC). Bonding all sections helps to create a continuous path for electrical currents, which is essential for preventing electromagnetic interference and ensuring that the system can effectively trip circuit breakers in the event of a fault. When every section of the cable tray is properly bonded, it minimizes the risk of electrical shock and equipment damage by providing an effective grounding path. This ensures that any stray electrical currents can be safely directed away, protecting both personnel and equipment. It is essential to understand that bonding practices are not just about individual connections but about creating a comprehensive grounding system throughout the electrical installation. This practice is crucial in maintaining the overall integrity and safety of the electrical system.