What is an outlet box used for in construction wiring?

An outlet box serves a crucial role in construction wiring by providing a specific housing for electrical connections. It is designed to securely contain and protect the wiring connections that lead to outlets, switches, or other electrical devices. This structure not only ensures safety by preventing incidental contact with live wires but also offers a stable mounting surface for affixing outlets or switches to the wall. The outlet box often has features that support proper ventilation and grounding, which are critical for maintaining electrical safety standards.

In contrast to other options, storing tools doesn't align with the primary purpose of an outlet box. While protecting wiring from water damage is important, outlet boxes are not specifically designed for that function—they would need added weatherproofing features to achieve waterproofing. Similarly, outlet boxes do not convert electrical signals; they merely serve as a convenient and safe enclosure for connections and devices. Thus, the primary and correct operation of an outlet box is to house electrical connections and provide a mounting surface.