How must grounded conductors be identified when they are #6 AWG or smaller?

Grounded conductors, which are essential for ensuring safety in electrical systems by providing a path for fault currents, must be properly identified to prevent confusion with ungrounded conductors. For conductors that are #6 AWG or smaller, the National Electrical Code (NEC) stipulates that they must be identified with an outer finish that is either grey or white.

This identification is important because it ensures consistent understanding and proper handling of grounded conductors across installations, enhancing overall system safety. The use of grey or white helps differentiate these conductors from those with other functions—such as ungrounded conductors, which have different color code requirements—to avoid mistakes that could lead to electrical hazards.

The other choices do not conform to NEC guidelines for the identification of grounded conductors.