What is the risk associated with inadequately insulated cables?

Inadequately insulated cables pose multiple risks, all of which are significant concerns in electrical installations.

Overheating of wires can occur because insufficient insulation does not effectively prevent heat dissipation. When cables carry current, they generate heat, and if the insulation is inadequate, this heat can build up, leading to a thermal runaway situation where temperatures rise to unsafe levels.

Additionally, electrical fires are a critical risk connected to poorly insulated cables. The heat generated from overheated wires can ignite nearby materials, resulting in a fire. Insulation is meant to contain this heat and protect the surrounding environment, so when it's compromised, the likelihood of fire increases.

Equipment failure is also a possible outcome. When cables overheat, the components they connect can be damaged or destroyed due to the excessive heat. This may lead to costly repairs or replacements and can contribute to system downtime.

Considering all these factors, it is clear that poorly insulated cables can lead to a range of interconnected hazards, making "all of the above" the most accurate answer.