Distribution box wire color arrangement

In a distribution box, wire colors indicate their function: live (brown or black), neutral (blue or white/gray), and ground/earth (green, green-yellow, or bare), with variations depending on region and system type.Standard Wire Colors by Region1. IEC / European Standard (including UK BS 7671):Live (Phase): BrownNeutral: BlueEarth / Ground: Green-yellow stripedThree-phase systems: Additional phases may use black and gray for L2 and L3 2. United States (NEC) and Canada (CEC):Single-phase AC:Hot / Live: Black (sometimes red for second hot in 240V circuits)Neutral: White or grayGround: Green or bare copperThree-phase AC:Phase wires: Black, red, blueNeutral: WhiteGround: Green or bare 3. DC Systems (solar panels, batteries, electronics):Positive: RedNegative: BlackGround / Earth: Green, green-yellow, or bare Safety and Practical TipsAlways switch off the breaker before working inside a distribution box .Test wires with a multimeter or voltage tester; never assume a wire is safe based on color alone .Label wires when replacing or adding new ones to avoid confusion in future maintenance .Older buildings may have non-standard or outdated color codes; verify before touching .Color indicates intent, not guarantee; always confirm with testing .SummaryThe color arrangement in a distribution box is designed to quickly identify wire function: live wires carry current to devices, neutral wires return current, and earth/ground wires provide safety. While standards exist internationally, always verify local codes and test wires before handling to ensure safety and compliance .