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⚡ Code Corner: 🔸 NEC 404.2(A) – Switching Only the Ungrounded Conductor

Sharpen your knowledge with a quick dive into the NEC.

Author

Chris Martinez
July 01, 2025

📘 What NEC 404.2(A) says:

What it says:
Switches shall be connected only to the ungrounded (hot) conductors.
The grounded (neutral) conductor shall not be connected to any switch,
unless it’s part of a listed switch assembly identified for that use.

⚠️ Why it matters?

  • Switching the hot safely kills power to the load.

  • Switching the neutral leaves live voltage at fixtures — a major shock hazard.

  • This protects workers doing maintenance and prevents code violations.

  • Smart switches or sensors that need a neutral are okay only if listed for it.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t confuse bonding with grounding. Bonding connects metal parts together, while grounding connects to the earth.

❓ Quick Code Quiz

Choose the correct answer:

❓ Question:
You find a switch controlling a light, but it’s wired on the neutral side, not the hot. The light turns off, but the socket still has voltage. Is this allowed?

A) Yes, if the switch works properly
B) No, switches must control the hot conductor
C) Yes, if the wire is labeled as "switched neutral"
D) Only if the switch controls more than one light

Answer below 👇

✅ Answer: C) Switches must break the hot conductor only — never the neutral or ground. NEC 404.2(A)

📘 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) — Article 404.2(A).

Title: Switch Connections – General

"Switches shall be connected only to the ungrounded (hot) conductors. A grounded (neutral) conductor shall not be connected to any switch unless it is part of a listed switch assembly and the switch is identified and listed for the purpose."