When conductors are laid in notches in wood studs or similar members, what protection is required against nails or screws?

• A. No protection is required
• B. A steel plate at least 1/16 inch thick
• C. A steel plate at least 1/8 inch thick
• D. A steel plate at least 1/4 inch thick

Answer: (B)

Notches in wooden studs create a risk that nails or screws from finishing materials could hit the conductor. To guard against this, you install a steel plate over the notch (a nail plate). The minimum thickness required is 1/16 inch, which provides enough rigidity to stop nails or screws from penetrating the conductor’s insulation. Thicker plates can be used, but the specified minimum is 1/16 inch.