Metal raceways enclosing Grounding Electrode Conductors (GECs) are considered to be on the ___ of the service equipment.

Metal raceways that enclose Grounding Electrode Conductors (GECs) are considered to be on the line side of the service equipment. This is because the GECs are part of the electrical grounding system, and they connect to the grounding electrodes, which serve to ground the electrical system.

The line side refers to the area of the service equipment that is before the overcurrent protection device (like a circuit breaker or fuse) in the electrical distribution system. On the line side, the potential for voltage exists relative to ground. Having the GECs on the line side ensures that any fault current can effectively flow to ground through these conductors, providing a clear path for fault currents and enhancing the safety of the electrical system by minimizing the risk of electric shock or fire.

In contrast, the load side refers to the area after the overcurrent protection device, where circuits are protected and most load devices are connected. The grounding system needs to effectively connect to the earth to reduce potential differences that can cause hazards, which is why the line side designation for metal raceways enclosing GECs is crucial in understanding their function and placement in the system.