West Virginia Contractors License Practice Exam

Should all metal face plates be grounded?

1. TRUE

2. FALSE

3. Only if they are in wet locations

4. Only if they are over 10 volts

The correct answer is: TRUE

Metal face plates are designed to provide both protection and safety in electrical installations. Grounding them is crucial as it ensures that, in the event of a fault or failure, any stray current is directed safely to the ground rather than causing shock or fire hazards. When metal face plates are used, they can become energized if there is a malfunction in the wiring or equipment they cover. Grounding these face plates creates a safe path for the electricity, reducing the risk of shock to individuals who may come into contact with them. It's important to ground metal face plates across all applications, not just limited circumstances, because electrical faults can occur irrespective of the environment or voltage levels involved. This proactive measure is part of the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines, which emphasize the importance of safety in electrical installations. By grounding all metal face plates, you ensure comprehensive protection against accidental electrical discharge.