For direct burial conductors that are spliced, the splicing means must be?

For direct burial conductors that are spliced, the splicing means must be listed. This requirement ensures that the splicing methods or materials used are manufactured and tested to meet specific safety and performance standards established by recognized testing laboratories. Using listed splicing means guarantees that the splice will perform reliably and safely under the conditions for which it is intended, which is critical in direct burial applications where environmental factors and the load can significantly affect the integrity of the electrical system.

A listed splice provides assurance against issues such as corrosion, thermal expansion, and mechanical stress over time. This is particularly important in underground installations where access to the splices for maintenance or inspection is limited. Therefore, adhering to the requirement for listed splicing methods promotes safe and durable electrical installations, aligning with best practices in residential electrical work.