Material Selection and Installation Guidelines of Wiring Devices

Abstract

The wiring devices are defined as single discrete units of electrical distribution systems
which are intended to carry but not utilize electrical energy. If device and wire connections
are done poorly during the finishing process, it can create a very real safety hazard. Highresistance
faults from poor wire connections in switch, light, and receptacle boxes are the
most likely areas for fire hazards, so proper wiring skill and technique at this stage are
imperative. Responsibility for people’s safety should be an electrician’s number one priority
in all work performed. The major activities of an electrician are to wire a switch, light, and
receptacle using wiring diagram. While doing the above, an electrician supposed to correctly
strip plastic-sheathed cable and insulate wire inside a device box by making appropriate
pigtails. Also to properly ground a device box and the device within it. And finally making
proper hooks for terminal connections. Overall an electrical worker should understand the
safety concerns around proper wiring methods regarding short circuits, shock hazards, and
high-resistance faults inside device boxes. This paper deals with the proper material
selection and installation guidelines to be followed for wiring devices used in electrical
installations considering local and international standards with industry best practices.