What does Article 406 primarily pertain to?

Article 406 of the National Electrical Code specifically addresses the requirements and regulations related to receptacles, cord connectors, and attachment plugs. This article provides guidelines for the proper installation, use, and maintenance of these components to ensure safety and effectiveness in electrical systems.

Receptacles are critical as they are the interface between the electrical supply and the devices that use power; thus, ensuring their proper specification and installation is vital for preventing hazards such as electrical shock or fire. Article 406 outlines necessary standards for different types of receptacles, considers environmental factors where they may be installed, and specifies any unique requirements for certain applications, such as tamper-resistant receptacles for child safety.

While flexible cords and cables, surface nonmetallic raceways, and messenger-supported wiring have their own specific articles within the NEC, they are not covered under Article 406. Each of these components falls under separate sections of the code, highlighting the dedicated nature of the NEC in categorizing electrical installations and components for clarity and safety in electrical design and implementation.