When can a continuous white or natural gray covering on a conductor be used?

A continuous white or natural gray covering on a conductor is specifically designated for use on grounded conductors. This designation is based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) which mandates color codes for electrical conductors to ensure safety and to minimize the risk of confusion during installation and maintenance. The white or gray coloring indicates that the conductor is safe to use as a grounded conductor, which serves to provide a path for fault current and to ensure proper operation of overcurrent protection devices.

Using these specific colors helps electricians easily identify the grounded conductors in an electrical system, leading to safer and more efficient installation practices. Other conductor types, such as ungrounded conductors, typically have different color designations (like black or red) to avoid any potential misconnection and to maintain system integrity. This regulation is crucial in maintaining safety standards within electrical installations.