What is a major reason for ensuring receptacles are installed with the correct polarity?

What is a major reason for ensuring receptacles are installed with the correct polarity?

• A. To ensure they match the color of the walls
• B. To avoid electrical shock hazards
• C. To improve the electrical load of the circuit
• D. To simplify the electrical installation process

Answer: (B)

Ensuring that receptacles are installed with the correct polarity is crucial primarily to avoid electrical shock hazards. When a receptacle is wired correctly, the hot (live) wire connects to the brass terminal, and the neutral wire connects to the silver terminal. This correct orientation ensures that devices plugged into the receptacle operate safely and reduces the risk of shock. If the polarity is reversed, the device's metal parts may become energized, presenting a shock hazard when touched. This is especially important for appliances with metal enclosures, as improper polarity increases the risk of electric shock to users who might inadvertently come into contact with the device. Other aspects, such as aesthetics or the load of the circuit, while relevant in certain contexts, do not take precedence over safety concerns associated with proper receptacle polarity. Therefore, the primary focus remains on mitigating risks associated with electrical shock.

Ensuring that receptacles are installed with the correct polarity is crucial primarily to avoid electrical shock hazards. When a receptacle is wired correctly, the hot (live) wire connects to the brass terminal, and the neutral wire connects to the silver terminal. This correct orientation ensures that devices plugged into the receptacle operate safely and reduces the risk of shock.

If the polarity is reversed, the device's metal parts may become energized, presenting a shock hazard when touched. This is especially important for appliances with metal enclosures, as improper polarity increases the risk of electric shock to users who might inadvertently come into contact with the device.

Other aspects, such as aesthetics or the load of the circuit, while relevant in certain contexts, do not take precedence over safety concerns associated with proper receptacle polarity. Therefore, the primary focus remains on mitigating risks associated with electrical shock.