Code Quiz: Equipment Grounding Conductor Requirements

Oct. 19, 2023

Test your knowledge of the NEC with this challenging question.

Based on the 2023 NEC.

Question: A 2-gang plastic box contains a light switch on a 15A circuit and a receptacle on a 20A circuit, and both circuits are wired with NM cable. Do all the equipment grounding conductors of both circuits need to be connected together, or is it permissible to have two separate equipment grounding connections (one for each circuit)?

See answer below.

Answer: All equipment grounding conductors of both circuits need to be connected together.

Explanation: Section 250.148(A) was revised to require all equipment grounding conductors to be spliced together even if they are for different circuits.

Lupacchino is a senior design engineer with Gaylor Electric, Inc. in Noblesville, Ind. and serves as an alternate on NEC Code-Making Panel No. 3. He is currently licensed in more than 80 jurisdictions. He can be reached at [email protected]

About the Author

John Lupacchino | Senior Design Engineer

John began his career in electrical construction as an apprentice and worked his way through the trade. He is currently licensed in more than 80 jurisdictions. With more than 35 years of experience, he now plays a vital role in Gaylor Electric’s Engineering Department, where he serves as a senior design engineer. With a focus on design engineering, quality assurance, and code compliance, he has earned the highest level of respect from industry professionals alike. John currently serves as an alternate on NFPA 70 Code Making Panel No. 3. In addition, he enjoys sharing his electrical knowledge through education. As an Associated Builders and Contractors instructor, he continues to help grow a new generation of high-performing construction leaders.