New York State Master Electrician Practice Exam

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In the National Electrical Code (NEC), which words indicate a mandatory action?

Should, Must
Shall, Shall Not
Can, Will
May, Might

The correct answer is: Shall, Shall Not

In the context of the National Electrical Code (NEC), the words that indicate a mandatory action are "Shall" and "Shall Not." These terms are used to specify requirements that must be adhered to for compliance with the code. When the NEC states something "shall" be done, it is not optional—there is an implicit obligation to follow that instruction. For example, if a section of the NEC states that certain wiring must be installed in a specific manner, the use of "shall" makes it clear that this is a mandatory requirement, and failure to comply could lead to safety hazards and legal issues. On the other hand, "shall not" indicates actions that are prohibited, emphasizing that certain practices or installations are not acceptable under the code. In contrast, other terms such as "should," "can," "will," "may," and "might" suggest recommendations or possibilities without the same level of obligation. For instance, "should" might imply a recommended best practice, while "can" and "may" convey optional actions rather than necessities. Hence, understanding the language used in the NEC is crucial for ensuring compliance and promoting safety in electrical installations.