Quick Hits

Episode 4: Splices, Strain Relief & Grounding Identification (400.13 – 400.24)

SLIDE 1 (HOOK / COVER)

⚡ NEC Quick Hit: Cord Repairs, Strain Relief & Grounding (Part 4) ⚡

Hard-service cord splicing rules, strain relief, and green grounding identification—let's finish Article 400! 👇

SLIDE 2 (SPLICES AND REPAIRS)

Keeping Cords Continuous:

• Initial Installation: Flexible cords must be used in continuous lengths without splices or taps when initially installed.

• Repair Permissions: Repair of hard-service and junior hard-service cords 14 AWG and larger is permitted if spliced per Section 110.14(B) and the completed splice retains the original insulation, outer sheath properties, and usage characteristics.

• No Reinstallation of Splices: Once a repaired cord is removed, that same in-line spliced cord cannot be reinstalled at a new location.

SLIDE 3 (STRAIN RELIEF, PROTECTION & GROUNDING IDENTIFICATION)

Physical Safety and Conductor Marking:

• Pull Elimination: Cords must be connected to devices and fittings so that tension is not transmitted to joints or terminals (using strain relief, knots, or tape).

• Physical Protection: Cords passing through holes in covers or outlet boxes must be protected by bushings or fittings.

• Grounding Identification: Equipment grounding conductors must have a continuous green color or green with yellow stripes. Grounded circuit conductors are identified via colored braids, white/gray insulation, tinned strands, or exterior surface ridges/stripes.

SLIDE 4 (WRAP-UP) 💡 Apprentice Pro-Tip: 

Never rely on terminal screws to hold the physical pulling weight of a cord—always ensure proper strain-relief fittings are installed to eliminate tension on internal electrical connections!

💬 Save this post for your final code review on Flexible Cords!

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