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Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →In common U.S. wiring, an equipment grounding conductor is bare, green, or green with a yellow stripe. It provides a protective path for fault current so a fuse or circuit breaker can respond; it is not the normal return path for circuit load current. Color conventions and requirements depend on the wiring system, local jurisdiction, and adopted code edition.
What does a ground wire do?
An equipment grounding conductor connects exposed conductive equipment parts to the protective grounding system. Under normal conditions, it is not intended to carry circuit load current. If a fault—such as insulation failure—connects an energized part to equipment metal, the grounding conductor can provide a path for fault current back to the source. That helps a fuse or circuit breaker operate and interrupt the circuit.
Grounding is part of a fault-protection system; it does not mean that earth alone guarantees safety. OSHA’s electrical training material explains that the equipment grounding conductor is not energized under normal conditions: OSHA electrical training material.
What color is the ground wire?
In the U.S. branch-circuit identification language quoted in OSHA’s training material, an equipment grounding conductor is identified by continuous green insulation, continuous green insulation with one or more yellow stripes, or no insulation (bare). The same passage identifies the grounded conductor, commonly called neutral, as white or natural gray. These are identification conventions, not a reliable way to diagnose every wire in an existing installation.
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- Grounding pigtail with #12 AWG solid, 8-in tail with loop and ground screw and stripped end
- Ensures compliance with article 250 of the national electric code
- Brass-alloy terminal with a locking tab for fast, efficient device connection
- Thread-forming, hole-finding ground screw with combination slotted, Phillips, hex and #2 Robertson head
- Lead helps reduce stress on your device, wires and connection
OSHA regulations require grounded and equipment grounding conductors to be identifiable and distinguishable from other conductors. They also reserve grounding terminals and grounding-type devices for grounding purposes: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.304.
Ground wire vs. neutral: how are they different?
| Conductor | Main role | Typical identification in cited U.S. material | Normal operating role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment grounding conductor | Connects exposed conductive equipment parts to the protective fault path. | Bare, green, or green with a yellow stripe. | Not intended to carry normal load current; carries fault current when needed. |
| Grounded conductor (neutral in common branch-circuit usage) | Part of the circuit and intentionally connected to ground at designated system points. | White or natural gray in the cited branch-circuit wording. | Carries normal circuit current in many circuits. |
OSHA’s glossary defines a grounded conductor as a system or circuit conductor intentionally grounded, and a grounding conductor as one used to connect equipment or a grounded circuit to grounding electrodes: OSHA electrical glossary. The terms describe different roles; a neutral and an equipment ground are not interchangeable.
Rank #2
- PACK OF TEN: This listing is for a pack of 10 green ground screws and grounding pigtails. Packaged in a convenient resealable bag, these pigtails come ready to be installed.
- SOLID GROUND: This item includes a solid ground wire pigtail and copper screw. The screw is already pre-installed on the wire to make installation easy, quick, and convenient.
- CONVENIENT: Easily ground your electrical connections with this green ground pigtail. Edges come pre-stripped to enable quick connections right out of the package.
- SPECIFICATIONS: Each electrical pigtail is approximately 6.5 inches long and provides enough length for easy positioning within an outlet box or similar application.
- ABOUT US: Airmont Products manufactures a full line of top-quality electrical supplies. Our grounding pigtails with ground screws are especially known for their convenience and great quality.
Can color alone identify a wire safely?
No. Color describes an identification convention, not proof that a particular existing wire is correctly connected or safe. Older or altered wiring, miswiring, and different wiring systems can make assumptions based on color unsafe. Do not handle energized wiring. If identifying a conductor affects a repair or safety decision, have a qualified electrician verify it using appropriate procedures and the locally applicable code.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which electrical code edition applies?
NFPA lists NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC), 2026 edition, as its current publication and includes grounding and bonding requirements: NFPA 70, National Electrical Code. Publication does not make an edition automatically enforceable everywhere; the edition adopted by the relevant jurisdiction and any local requirements control.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- [Green Grounding Pigtail] 6in grounding solid wires 12 AWG with ground screws, tail with loop and stripped end.The copper terminal with a locking tab for fast, efficient device connection.
- [American Standard] Produced from UL Listed copper cable,suitable for most job requirements.
- [Premium Material] The grounding wire is made of solid copper, which has a good fire and oil and corrosion resistance. Ensure compliance with Article 250 of the National Electrical Code.
- [Usages] These electrical 12 AWG wires provide enough length for easy positioning within an outlet box or similar application.
- [Package Contains]You will get 25pcs 6 inches ground wires and 25pcs matching screws to meet your different needs.
Rank #4
- Efficient grounding solution: This high-quality copper grounding wire has 5mm crimping terminals at both ends for quick connection to the grounding wire, providing reliable grounding wire connection. It ensures effective grounding for various applications, including photovoltaic panels, cable trays, junction boxes, and equipment wiring.
- Secure and Convenient Installation: The Green grounding pigtail features a sturdy construction and comes with screws for easy installation. The 8-inch length provides flexibility and allows for proper grounding in different setups.
- Versatile Compatibility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, this copper ground wire is ideal for connecting grounding wires in photovoltaic systems, cable tray installations, junction boxes, and equipment wiring. It ensures a secure electrical connection, reducing the risk of electrical faults.
- Reliable Electrical Connection: The crimped terminals on both ends of the grounding wire ensure a solid and durable connection. The 5mm diameter offers a secure fit and minimizes the risk of disconnection or electrical hazards.
- 10-32 x 3/8-Inch Green ground screws 30pc
Rank #3
- Copper Steel Composite Material
- One copper cable extension bolt connector is included.
- 10 AWG annealed solid copper ground wire with steel core for greater tensile strength , great grounding conductor for electric fence,residential lightning protection and DIY usages.
- The Soft ANNEALED wire can bear winding and bending ,specially designed for satellite antenna electrical surge ground protection earth wire
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