An overcurrent device protecting service conductors for a single load may be locked or sealed to prevent ___ .

An overcurrent device protecting service conductors for a single load may be locked or sealed to prevent ___ .

• A. Tripping
• B. Tampering
• C. Heat buildup
• D. Corrosion

Answer: (B)

Protective devices must be safeguarded from unauthorized interference. Locking or sealing the overcurrent device that protects service conductors for a single load helps ensure the protection isn’t defeated by someone who might bypass or reset the device. By deter­ring tampering, the protective function remains intact, reducing the risk of unprotected faults, shock, or fire. Tripping isn’t the purpose of locking; it’s the function of the device itself to interrupt on fault, and a lock would not be intended to prevent that action. Heat buildup and corrosion aren’t related to the reason for sealing—the goal is to prevent tampering that could compromise protection.

Protective devices must be safeguarded from unauthorized interference. Locking or sealing the overcurrent device that protects service conductors for a single load helps ensure the protection isn’t defeated by someone who might bypass or reset the device. By deter­ring tampering, the protective function remains intact, reducing the risk of unprotected faults, shock, or fire.

Tripping isn’t the purpose of locking; it’s the function of the device itself to interrupt on fault, and a lock would not be intended to prevent that action. Heat buildup and corrosion aren’t related to the reason for sealing—the goal is to prevent tampering that could compromise protection.