How should NM cable be protected where it passes through studs or framing members?

• A. Protected with nail plates or equivalent protection
• B. Run through plastic sleeves only
• C. Not required if located in dry locations
• D. Tape with electrical tape through studs

Answer: (A)

When NM cable runs through studs or framing members, it must be shielded from nails or screws used for wall finishing. Nails can easily penetrate through drywall or paneling and strike the cable, damaging insulation and creating shock or fire hazards. The required protection is a nail plate or equivalent safeguard installed on the face of the stud or framing member to block fasteners from reaching the cable. A steel nail plate is the common solution, placed so the cable stays out of reach of fasteners or the edge of the member; if the cable is already kept at a safe distance, plates may not be needed, but when it's within the critical edge distance, protection is mandatory. Plastic sleeves alone don’t provide the necessary protection from fasteners, and taping through studs isn’t an approved method.