What is the standard color coding for 115 VAC ground, neutral, and hot wires?

The color coding for electrical wiring is crucial for ensuring safety and proper functionality in electrical systems. In North America, the standard color coding for 115 VAC wiring is to use green for ground, white for neutral, and black for the hot wire.

Green indicates the grounding wire, which is essential for safety as it helps prevent electric shock and equipment damage by providing a path for fault current. The white wire is designated as the neutral conductor, which carries current away from the device back to the electrical panel, completing the circuit. Finally, the black wire is used as the hot wire, meaning it carries the current to the device or load.

Using these standardized colors helps technicians quickly identify wiring types in various equipment, reducing the risk of improper connections, which could lead to hazardous situations or equipment failure. Understanding this color-coding system is fundamental for anyone working with electrical equipment in the biomedical field, as it ensures safety and compliance with regulations.