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Horizontal junction boxes require grounding

All metallic junction boxes, including horizontal installations, must be properly grounded to maintain electrical safety and code compliance, while non-metallic boxes do not require grounding themselves but must maintain continuity of the equipment grounding conductors.NEC Requirements

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), grounding is mandatory for all metallic junction boxes to ensure a low-impedance path for fault current, preventing shock or fire hazards (NEC 250.148, 314.40) . This applies regardless of the box orientation, so horizontal junction boxes are included. The grounding path must remain continuous even if a device inside the box is removed, which is achieved by splicing all equipment grounding conductors (EGCs) together using listed splicing devices or bonding jumpers .

Metallic vs Non-Metallic Boxes
  • Metallic Boxes: Must be bonded to the EGC system using approved methods such as grounding screws, clips, or bonding connectors. This ensures that any fault current is safely directed to the service panel .
  • Non-Metallic (Plastic) Boxes: Do not require grounding themselves because they are non-conductive. However, all EGCs entering the box must be connected together to maintain circuit continuity. If a metallic raceway or armored cable enters a plastic box, grounding bushings or jumpers must be used to preserve the integrity of the grounding system .
Installation Considerations
  • Use machine-threaded or hex-headed green grounding screws; drywall or standard sheet metal screws are not acceptable for grounding .
  • Ensure the box remains accessible after installation, as required by NEC 314.29, and that all conductors, including grounds, are properly spliced and secured .
  • Horizontal orientation does not change the grounding requirement; the key factor is the material of the box and the presence of circuit conductors inside .
Summary

In practice, any horizontal metallic junction box must be grounded, while plastic boxes require only that the grounding conductors inside remain continuous. Proper bonding and splicing of EGCs are essential to comply with NEC 250.148 and 314.40, ensuring safety and passing electrical inspections .

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