SafetyQuestion 442 of 521

Which statement about the grounded (neutral) and equipment grounding conductors is correct?

a.They may be bonded together again at every subpanel
b.They are bonded together only at the service (or separately derived source) and kept separate downstream in subpanels
c.The equipment grounding conductor normally carries load current
d.Neutrals and grounds are effectively the same conductor everywhere

Explanation

The neutral and equipment grounding conductor are bonded only at the service or source; downstream subpanels keep them isolated so normal load current does not flow on grounding conductors and enclosures. Re-bonding at subpanels or treating them as one conductor creates parallel neutral paths and shock hazards.

Law Reference: 2023 NEC §250.24

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