Is Electrical Nonmetallic Tubing permitted to protect a grounding electrode conductor from physical damage?

Electrical Nonmetallic Tubing (ENT), often used for the physical protection of electrical conductors, is not suitable for grounding electrode conductors. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that grounding electrode conductors must be protected in a manner that ensures their reliability and effectiveness in providing a safe path to ground.

Grounding electrode conductors are critical components that ensure the safe dissipation of electrical energy into the earth, especially during fault conditions. These conductors need to maintain their integrity to perform their purpose effectively. While ENT offers excellent protection for general wiring, it lacks the mechanical strength and grounding continuity needed for grounding applications.

Moreover, the NEC outlines specific requirements for the protection and installation of grounding conductors, often recommending materials like metal raceways or other robust means that can withstand physical damage while ensuring a reliable electrical connection to ground. Thus, utilizing Electrical Nonmetallic Tubing for this purpose would not meet code requirements and could result in potentially dangerous conditions if the conductor was ever compromised.