Final answer:
The NEC article that addresses grounding and bonding of conductive materials likely to become energized is Article 250. It underscores the importance of electrical safety systems to prevent electric shocks and thermal hazards. Insulating materials, such as plastic on wires, prevent direct contact with electricity, thus safeguarding against these risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The National Electrical Code (NEC) sets forth requirements to ensure electrical safety in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The NEC does not directly specify an article for electrically conductive materials under this context but does have multiple requirements throughout for the grounding and bonding of non-current carrying conductive materials that are likely to become energized.
For instance, NEC Article 250 covers grounding and bonding requirements. This provides a path to ground for electricity, reducing the risk of electric shock. The NEC emphasizes the use of electrical safety systems and devices to prevent both thermal and shock hazards.
Plastic insulation on live or hot wires is critical to safety as it prevents direct contact with the energized conductors, thus preventing shock hazards. Similarly, it provides some level of protection against thermal hazards by insulating against short circuits that could occur if conductive materials come in contact with bare conductors and start a fire or cause damage.
Understanding that our bodies are good electrical conductors primarily due to the high water content is crucial for safety. Wearing insulated shoes and working with one hand are common precautions to avoid providing a current path through the body, especially the heart.
It's also important to note that any conductor, including the human body, will start to conduct electricity if exposed to a sufficiently strong electric field, such as the roughly 3 x 106 N/C required for air.