Are service conductors permitted to be spliced or tapped?

Service conductors are critical components of electrical systems, as they carry power from the utility supply to the electrical distribution system within a building. The National Electrical Code (NEC) regulates the installation and maintenance of these conductors, including how splices and taps may be applied.

In general, splicing or tapping service conductors is strictly regulated due to safety concerns, as improper connections can lead to increased resistance, overheating, and potential fire hazards. The NEC typically requires service conductors to maintain their integrity and full capacity from the utility source to the service equipment without any breaks or alterations that could impair performance.

There are specific scenarios under which splices may be permissible, but these are typically limited to designated locations and must comply with strict standards. Therefore, whereas it's not outright forbidden to splice or tap, there are significant limitations that often disallow these practices for service conductors without explicitly defined guidelines or conditions being met.

The correct answer reflects the advanced requirement that neither splicing nor tapping service conductors is generally permitted without special considerations and compliance with safety protocols. Understanding these regulations helps ensure that electrical installations remain safe, reliable, and code-compliant.