Which statement best describes electrical safety regarding wires?

• A. Damaged insulation is acceptable if the plug is covered.
• B. No frayed wires.
• C. Exposed conductors are permitted if taped.
• D. Wires should be painted to identify hazards.

Answer: (B)

Wires must have intact insulation to prevent electric shock and fires. Damaged insulation exposes live conductors, creating a direct risk of shock, short circuits, or ignition. Simply covering a damaged plug doesn’t fix the underlying problem, and frayed wires mean the conductive material is exposed and can be touched or brush against causing a fault. Exposed conductors should never be taped to “fix” them, because tape can fail or loosen, leaving the hazard present. Painting wires to identify hazards does not repair damage or improve safety. The safest rule is that there should be no frayed wires—replace damaged cords or have them repaired before use.