Neca 331 - First Draft

National Electrical Installation Standard (NEIS)
NECA 331-2xxx
Standard for Installing
Building and Service Entrance Grounding
Recirculation Ballot Draft

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. SCOPE ........................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS INCLUDED ............................................................................. 1
1.2 EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS EXCLUDED ............................................................................ 1
1.3 REGULATORY AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................... 1
1.4 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS, PERMISSIVE REQUIREMENTS, QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE
RECOMMENDATIONS, EXPLANATORY MATERIAL, AND INFORMATIVE ANNEXES ................... 2
1.5 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 3
2. GROUNDING AND BONDING OVERVIEW ................................................................ 3

2.1 PLANNING AND EXECUTION OF PROJECT......................................................................... 3
2.2 GROUNDING AND BONDING CONDUCTORS OVERVIEW ..................................................... 6
2.2.1 Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC) ....................................................... 7
2.2.2 Installing Equipment Grounding Conductors ................................................. 8
2.2.3 Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC) ........................................................10
2.2.4 Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC) Size ................................................10
2.2.5 Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation Protection ................................11
2.2.6 Repair or Splices in Grounding Electrode Conductors .................................11
3. SERVICE ENTRANCE AND BUILDING GROUNDING..............................................13

3.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................13
3.2 GROUNDING ELECTRODES ............................................................................................15
3.2.1 Metal Underground Water Pipe ....................................................................16
3.2.2 Metal In Ground Support Structure Electrodes .............................................18
3.2.3 Concrete-Encased Electrodes (Ufer Grounds) .............................................19
3.2.4 Ground Ring.................................................................................................25
3.2.5 Rod, Pipe, or Plate Electrodes ....................................................................26
3.2.6 Other listed Grounding Electrodes ...............................................................31
3.2.7 Ground Enhancement Materials and Chemical Rods ...................................33
3.2.8 Lightning Protection Ground Terminals ........................................................34
4. BUILDING EXTERIOR GROUNDING ........................................................................34

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4.1 PERIMETER GROUNDING...............................................................................................35
4.1.1 Triple Ground Rods ......................................................................................36
4.1.2 Waterstops for Foundation Penetrations ......................................................36
4.1.3 Inspection Wells ...........................................................................................37
4.1.4 Fabricated Wire Mesh ..................................................................................38
4.2 FENCE GROUNDING......................................................................................................39
4.3 GROUNDING OF OTHER EXTERIOR ITEMS .......................................................................42
4.4 SINGLE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM .....................................................................44
4.5 GROUNDING ELECTRODES FOR SEPARATE BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES ..........................45
4.6 ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED OUTSIDE A BUILDING...............................................46
5. BUILDING INTERIOR BONDING AND GROUNDING ..............................................47

5.1 BONDING .....................................................................................................................47
5.1.1 Service Equipment Bonding .........................................................................47
5.1.2 Intersystem Bonding ....................................................................................48
5.1.3 Bonding Other Enclosures ...........................................................................50
5.1.4 Bonding for Circuits Over 250 Volts .............................................................51
5.1.5 Bonding of Piping Systems and Exposed Structural Steel............................51
5.1.6 Building Interior Bonding ..............................................................................52
5.2 EQUIPMENT GROUNDING AND BONDING .........................................................................61
5.2.1 Equipment Fastened in Place ......................................................................61
5.2.2 Specific Equipment Fastened in Place .........................................................61
5.2.2 Equipment Bonding ......................................................................................62
5.2.3 Receptacle Grounding .................................................................................65
5.2.4 Isolated Ground (IG) Receptacles ................................................................65
5.3 GROUNDING BUS AND GROUNDING TERMINAL BARS ......................................................66
6. BONDING AND GROUNDING OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS ...................................68

6.1 PERFORMANCE BONDING AND GROUNDING ...................................................................68
6.2 SIGNAL REFERENCE GROUNDING GRID .........................................................................69
6.3 GROUND CURRENT INTERFERENCE WITH CATHODE RAY TUBE (CRT) BASED EQUIPMENT72
6.4 NETWORKED W ORKSTATION EQUIPMENT ......................................................................72
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7. INSPECTIONS ...........................................................................................................73
7.1 FINAL REVIEW AND INSPECTION BEFORE ENERGIZING ....................................................73
7.2 PERIODIC INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE ...................................................................73
ANNEX A: REFERENCES ............................................................................................... A1
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1. SCOPE
This standard describes installation procedures for building and service entrance grounding
as well as building interior bonding and grounding. The information provided in this
standard is intended to define what is meant by installing equipment in a “neat and
workmanlike manner” as required by the National Electrical Code (ANSI/NFPA 70) (NEC),
Section 110.12, and in accordance with “accepted good practice” as required by National
Electrical Safety Code (ANSI/IEEE C2) (NESC), Rule 012.C. The installations described
in this standard should be performed by qualified persons. The term “qualified person” is
defined in Article 100 of the NEC.
1.1 Equipment and Systems Included
The following are included in this publication:

• Electrical service and system grounding
• Building exterior grounds
• Building interior bonding
• Equipment grounding and bonding
1.2 Equipment and Systems Excluded
Lightning protection systems are specifically excluded from this publication.

Interconnections between lightning protection systems and other grounding and
bonding systems are necessary and briefly described in Section 3.2.8 of this
standard.
1.3 Regulatory and Other Requirements
All information in this standard is intended to conform to the NEC and NESC.
Installers should always follow the NEC, NESC, any applicable amendments in
state and local codes, manufacturer’s instructions, listing agency requirements, and
project specifications when installing grounding and bonding systems for buildings or
structures.
Only qualified persons familiar with the construction of grounding and bonding of
electrical systems should perform the work described in this publication.
Administrative functions such as receiving, handling, and storing required in Section
4, and other tasks may be performed under the supervision of a qualified person. All
work shall be performed in accordance with NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical
Safety in the Workplace.
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General requirements for installing electrical products and systems are described in
NECA 1, Standard Practices for Good Workmanship in Electrical Construction
(ANSI). Other NEIS provide additional guidance for installing particular types of
electrical products and systems. A complete list of NEIS standards are provided in
Annex A.
1.4 Mandatory Requirements, Permissive Requirements, Quality and

Performance Recommendations, Explanatory Material, and Informative
Annexes
Mandatory Requirements. Mandatory requirements in manufacturer instructions,

or of Codes or other mandatory Standards that may or may not be adopted into law,
are those that identify actions that are specifically required or prohibited and are
characterized by the use of the terms must or must not, shall or shall not, or may
not, or are not permitted, or are required, or by the use of positive phrasing of
mandatory requirements. Examples of mandatory requirements may equally take
the form of, “equipment must be protected . . .,” “equipment shall be protected . . .,”
or “protect equipment . . .,” with the latter interpreted (understood) as “(it is
necessary to, or, it is required to) protect equipment . . .”
Permissive Requirements. Permissive requirements of manufacturer instructions,
or of Codes or other mandatory Standards that may or may not be adopted into law,
are those that identify actions that that are allowed but not required or are normally
used to describe options or alternative means and methods and are characterized in
this Standard by the use of the terms “may”, or “are permitted”, or “are not required”.
Quality and Performance Recommendations. Quality and performance
recommendations identify actions that are recommended or not recommended to
improve the overall quality or performance of the installation and are characterized
by the use of the term “should” or “should not”.
Explanatory Material. Explanatory material, such as references to other Codes,
Standards, or documents, references to related sections of this Standard,
information related to another Code, Standard, or document, and supplemental
application and design information and data, is included throughout this Standard to
expand the understanding of mandatory requirements, permissive requirements, and
quality and performance recommendations. Such explanatory material is included
for information only and is identified by the use of the term “NOTE,” or by the use of
italicized text.
Informative Annexes. Non-mandatory information and other reference standards
or documents relative to the application and use of materials, equipment, and
systems covered by this Standard are provided in informative annexes. Informative
annexes are not part of the enforceable requirements of this Standard but are
included for information purposes only.
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1.5 Introduction
This standard has been developed to provide additional explanation and some “best
practices” so that the requirements of the NEC are met and help define better what
is meant by a “neat and workman like manner”. The installation guidance provided
in this standard should not be considered all-inclusive and it is recognized there are
many ways to complete a compliant installation.
This standard is intended to be used in concert with the NEC, the listing
requirements from the listing agencies, and the manufacturer’s installation
instructions for the equipment utilized to make the installation. This standard does
not provide specific code text and it is expected the qualified user is familiar with the
applicable NEC Articles and Sections as well as other general industry information
and practices. The grounding and bonding terminology used in this standard will
utilize the definitions from the NEC. Where the term is not defined in the NEC, then
the definition can be found in Webster’s dictionary.
All information in this standard is intended to provide at least minimal conformance
to the NEC and NESC. Installers should always follow the NEC, NESC, any
applicable amendments in state and local codes, manufacturer’s instructions, listing
agency requirements, and project specifications when installing grounding and
bonding systems for buildings or structures. To mitigate conflicts from all these
sources, an order of precedence should be established at the beginning of the
project if not already established by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. It should be
remembered the NEC is considered the minimum electrical safety standard so any
design, specifications or installation that appears to not meet this minimum should
be questioned.
2. GROUNDING and BONDING OVERVIEW
2.1 Planning and Execution of Project
The beginning of any project needs to start with a sufficient level of planning to
ensure a smooth installation and approval from the owner and Authority Having
Jurisdiction. The complexity of the project will dictate the necessary level of
planning that is needed. Clearly, planning the grounding electrode system and
overall grounding and bonding for a single-family dwelling is less complex than a
multi-tenant commercial building, health care facility, industrial plant or data center.
But even with the less complex projects, there needs to be some planning done to
avoid problems. Some considerations for projects may include the items below.
While all the below items can help with the less complex dwelling unit, many of these
are more suited for the complex commercial, institutional and industrial locations.
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(a) What are the geology and soil conditions of the building site? An effective
grounding electrode needs to be in suitable earth with a level of moisture to keep
conductivity. Knowing the composition of the earth as well as the frost line, for
those areas subject to ground freezing, and where the permanent moisture level
is located all help to determine which type of electrode can be most effective.
While the NEC sets some minimum depths for driven electrodes or buried
electrodes, site conditions may require deeper depths to be effective. This is to
be in adequately moist earth and below any frost line. Obtaining the
geotechnical report, if one is available, can be very informative in this planning.
If no report is available, obtaining typical site information for the area from the
building department is another resource.
(b) Also, to help in the grounding electrode selections and installation, the
specifications for the building construction need to be known. What is the plan
for the water supply piping to the building? Is it uncoated metal pipe or is it a
non-metallic pipe or coated that separates the pipe surface from earth contact?
Are there structural metal pilings, casings or the like that would be an in-ground
support structure electrode? What is the design for the foundation footing(s)? If
rebar is being installed for structural and/or seismic reasons and the concrete will
be in direct contact with the earth, arrangements need to be made to either have
a rebar stub-up provided near the service equipment or to make a grounding
electrode conductor connection before the concrete is poured. Rebar should
never be exposed to contact with the soil and enter into the foundation or footing.
Remember the metal water pipe, metal structural support members and the
rebar in the footing or foundation are covered by other codes, such as the
building code, and installed by other trades so it will require some level of
coordination efforts on the part of the electrical and general contractors.
(c) Do the specifications call for a ground ring, or grounding grid?
(d) If the building is very large with more than one service at different locations, what
will be the plan to interconnect the grounding electrode systems together?
(e) What equipment will be installed in the building that may need additional
grounding? Is there sensitive data processing equipment that might need a
signal reference grounding mat in the room or area and provisions for a single
point reference grounding bar to be installed? Does any of the equipment need
an auxiliary electrode or a direct connection to the grounding electrode system.
(f) Are there separately derived systems (transformers, generators, UPS systems,
inverters, etc.) to be installed? Is there a plan or specification for the grounding
of these separately derived systems? If not, what will be the plan for the
installation for location and components needed.
(g) With the advent in many areas installing or requiring alternate energy systems
such as photovoltaic, wind, fuel cells, what is the grounding and interconnection
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plan? How is that system to interface with the grid and how are the grounding
and bonding needs being met?
(h) If the building is to have multiple tenants that may change over time, is there a
plan to install a common grounding busbar in the main electrical room and
electrical rooms on each floor of a multi-story building. These busbars provide a
convenient means to bring all the grounding electrodes together to a common
bonding point. This then allows each tenant service to have the grounding
electrode conductor installed to this common bus. Additionally, a single bond of
metallic water and structural metal could be made rather than each service
installer having to do it separately. Lastly, the main busbar can be the starting
point for a common grounding electrode conductor riser to each floor or around
the building on a single floor where it is attached to one or more grounding
busbar(s) to serve separately derived systems or other grounding needs. This
planning and initial installation can save much time and expense for tenant
improvements and any future remodeling.
[insert one photograph similar to these examples]

Photo 2.1 – Example Grounding Busbar
(i) Is a lightning protection system planned for the buildings or structures? Although
it may not be part of the electrical installation by the electrical contractor, what
will be the plan for the bonding of the building grounding electrode system to the
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lightning protection ground terminals and grounding system as required by the
NEC?
2.2 Grounding and Bonding Conductors Overview
Grounding and bonding systems serve three primary functions:

a) Personnel safety - shock hazards and secondarily fire that result from ground
faults
b) Equipment and building protection - fires
c) Electrical noise reduction – performance not necessarily safety related
Electrical ground faults, short circuits, lightning, and transient events can occur in
any premises electrical distribution system. System grounding and equipment
grounding are intended to establish a reference to ground (the earth) through a
grounding electrode or system of grounding electrodes. System grounding provides
the earth reference for electrical system voltage stability from the service or any
grounded separately derived system. Effective ground-fault current paths are
intentionally constructed in electrical systems to clear faults in the quickest possible
manner by providing a low-impedance path returning the fault current to the supply
source. The NEC refers to this as establishing an “effective ground-fault current
path.” The equipment grounding conductors also provide the main path back to
earth so non-current carrying metal enclosures, raceways and the like are
maintained at or close to earth potential. The overall effectiveness of any grounding
and bonding system is determined both by the components selected, and the
manner in which these components are connected. While poor workmanship may
not be evident until there is fault, ensuring a safe and effective installation requires
at least the same level of diligence and quality workmanship as any other part of the
electrical installation.
In addition to grounding and bonding for safety reasons as required by the NEC,
effective and compliant electrical grounding and bonding contributes to the proper
functioning and performance of electronic equipment and systems. This subject is
discussed in Section 6 Grounding and Bonding of Electronic Systems. With more
and more building management and security systems being installed integrated with
computers and operating with both wired and wireless communications, “electronic
noise” can not only be a nuisance but become as safety hazard when system
performance is necessary.
In addition to establishing a good earth connection with the grounding electrode or
grounding electrode system, there are two key conductors used for grounding of
systems and equipment:
• Grounding electrode conductors, and
• Equipment grounding conductors.
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These conductor names are defined in Article 100 of the NEC. It is very important to
understand which conductor is being installed or inspected to properly apply the
correct installation requirements. Both of these conductors are conductive paths
that extend the ground connection as defined in the NEC. These two defined
conductors each serve different functions and are discussed in the next two
sections. Finally, what is needed then is a “good” earth connection (grounding
electrode or grounding electrode system), suitable connection from the grounding
electrode to the equipment and system as applicable, (grounding electrode
conductor) and also an effective (intentionally constructed, low impedance,
electrically conductive) path back to the supply source from any point on the system
where a ground fault could occur (equipment grounding conductor).
2.2.1 Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC)
The EGC is the electrically conductive path purposefully installed to connect

normally non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment together and to the
system grounded conductor or to the grounding electrode conductor, or both.
The equipment grounding conductor performs three essential functions in
electrical system as follows:
1. The EGC provides a connection through a conductive path to ground
(earth) from equipment.
2. The EGC performs bonding functions making the electrical connection of
all non-current carrying metal enclosures, raceways and the like
3. The EGC performs as an effective ground-fault current path to facilitate
overcurrent device operation.
The following components are those identified for use as the EGC for both
branch circuits and feeders, under the conditions described in Article 250 of
the NEC. In addition to the information in the grounding and bonding section
of the NEC, the raceway, and related types of equipment grounding
conductors have installation requirements found in their respective code
sections.
a) A wire type conductor manufactured from copper, aluminum, or copper-
clad aluminum conductor
b) Rigid metal conduit (RMC)
c) Intermediate metal conduit (IMC)
d) Electrical metallic tubing (EMT)
e) Listed flexible metal conduit (FMC) in accordance with conditions stated
in the NEC
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f) Listed liquid-tight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) in accordance with
conditions stated in the NEC
g) Armor of Type AC cable
h) The copper sheath of mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed cable, Type MI
i) The metal sheath or the combined metallic sheath and grounding
/bonding conductors of Type MC cable
j) Metal cable trays
k) Cablebus framework
l) Other electrically continuous metal raceways and listed auxiliary gutters
m) Surface metal raceways listed for grounding
2.2.2 Installing Equipment Grounding Conductors
For best performance of the EGC function, all conductors of an electric

circuit, including the EGC, must be contained in the same raceway, cable
tray, trench, cable, or cord. The closer the EGC is aligned with the
ungrounded conductor(s) the lower the overall impedance of the return
ground fault path. It is noted that there are specific allowances in the NEC
for installing EGCs separate from the circuit conductors in existing
installations where no equipment grounding means exists in the outlet for a
switch or receptacle. These allowances are there to provide a path that is
better than nothing, but it is understood that the installation is not ideal. If
using one of the allowed options extra care should be taken to minimize the
impedance impact created by separation of the equipment grounding
conductor from the circuit conductors.
a) The EGC shall be installed in accordance with the applicable NEC
provisions for the type of EGC selected. This generally applies where the
EGC is a raceway, wireway, etc.
b) When a metallic raceway system is used as an EGC, with or without a
separate wire-type EGC installed, the entire raceway run is required to
perform as effective ground-fault current path. For this reason, any
fittings and terminations at boxes must be made up wrenchtight to ensure
a low-impedance, effective path for ground-fault current.
c) Additional bonding methods may be necessary and sometimes required
around concentric, eccentric, or oversized knockouts in electrical
enclosures. Metallic boxes with concentric or eccentric knockouts are
listed for grounding and bonding for circuits over 250 volts. The listed
metallic boxes as used in this part are device type boxes with a total
volume of 100 cubic inches or less.
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d) All wire type EGC connections shall be made using listed equipment,
fittings and attachment methods identified in NEC 250.8. This applies to
all connections including the wire terminal and the wire terminal mounting
hardware.
e) If ungrounded conductors are increased in size for any reason (i.e.
voltage drop, ampacity adjustment, conductor availability, etc.) the EGC
shall be increased in size proportionately to the ungrounded conductors
in accordance with the applicable NEC requirements.
f) For motor circuits using an instantaneous circuit breaker (also known by
a trade name as a Motor Circuit Protector (MCP)) or a Motor Short Circuit
Protector, the EGC is allowed to be sized as if the motor short circuit and
ground fault protective device is a dual element time delay fuse. This
dual element time delay fuse would be sized based on NEC requirements
for sizing the motor short circuit and grounding fault protective device
including the exception.
g) When the EGC is a separate (wire-type) conductor, its size is determined
by the rating or setting of the overcurrent protective device (fuse or circuit
breaker) installed for the circuit.
h) In parallel installations, each EGC where of the wire type, must be
installed in accordance with the NEC provisions for parallel circuit
conductors. This will depend on if there is a single raceway or enclosure
or if there are parallel conduits. The size of the wire type equipment
grounding conductor in the single raceway or in each of the parallel
raceways is based on the ampere rating of the overcurrent device using
NEC Table 250.122.
i) When the circuit conductors are installed in parallel and routed in multiple
raceways or cable assemblies, the equipment grounding conductors must
also be installed in parallel and in each raceway. The size in each cable
or raceway is full size based on the NEC Table 250.122.
j) Cable assemblies installed in parallel shall contain an equipment
grounding conductor sized according to NEC 250.122 but it does not
have to be larger than the circuit conductors. In parallel runs the circuit
conductor is the total of all conductors in parallel that are installed to
create one conductive path, not the individual conductors in each cable
installed in the parallel arrangement. For multiconductor cables installed
in parallel in multiple raceways, gutters, wireways or in cable tray that
qualifies as an equipment grounding conductor, then the size of the EGC
within the cable is permitted to be the standard size where the raceways,
gutters, wireways or cable tray will provide the EGC function. The EGCs
within each cable still need to be bonded at each end and connected to
the same point electrically as the raceway, gutter, wireway or cable tray.
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2.2.3 Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC)
The grounding electrode conductor is the conductive path (conductor)

installed to connect the system grounded conductor or the equipment to a
grounding electrode or to a point on the grounding electrode system.
Grounding electrode conductors are permitted to be copper, aluminum, or
copper-clad aluminum, solid, stranded, insulated, covered, or bare.
The provision to install a GEC from the equipment to a grounding electrode
or point on the grounding electrode system is an important consideration.
This allows the bonding of several of the grounding electrodes together and
then have the correctly sized GEC connect to one of the electrodes or to
some other point on the interconnected network. This common connection
point can be a minimum ¼ x 2-inch copper or aluminum busbar or to one of
the bonding jumpers. When going to a bonding jumper, the one
consideration required it that all the bonding jumpers from the connection
point are properly sized for the GEC that is required for the service or
separately derived system.
2.2.4 Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC) Size
a) The minimum size of the GEC is determined based on:

1. the largest ungrounded service-entrance conductor that supplied the
building or structure, or
2. based on the largest ungrounded derived phase conductor of a
separately derived system.
3. The largest feeder or branch circuit conductor for buildings or
structures served by feeder(s) or branch circuit(s)
The GEC is never required to be larger than a 3/0 AWG copper or
250 kcmil aluminum or copper-clad aluminum conductor. This is
because the GEC is unable to dissipate any more current into the
earth than can be carried by the conductors. Note, that the GEC is
not intended to be a fault current carrying conductor.
b) The common grounding electrode conductor for multiple service
disconnection means in separate enclosures is based on the size of the
largest ungrounded service entrance conductor suppling all the two or
more services.
c) For multiple separately derived systems the common grounding electrode
conductor is required to be at least a 3/0 AWG copper or 250kcmil
aluminum. The common grounding electrode conductor can also be
structural metal forming the frame of the building or metallic water piping
that meet the requirements set for the ability to use these structural
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components as a conductor. For wire type common grounding electrode
conductors, many project specifications require a larger conductor where
certain performance considerations are implemented.
2.2.5 Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation Protection
Grounding electrode conductors shall be protected from physical damage

wherever they are accessible. .
a. The use of aluminum or copper-clad aluminum GECs is prohibited where
the bare conductor is installed in direct contact or within 18 inches of the
earth, masonry, or where subject to other corrosive conditions.
b. Installation of aluminum conductors in outdoor rated equipment, including
open bottom switchgear or switchboards on concrete pads is not
exposing the bare aluminum conductor at the termination to the corrosive
conditions of the “earth”. Unless there are other corrosive environmental
aspects present, installations made within 18 inches of the bottom is
acceptable.
c. The GEC can be installed directly on a building or structure, if 6 AWG or
larger, and not subject to physical damage. If the GEC is subject to
physical damage, it shall be installed in a metallic raceway (RMC, IMC or
EMT) or cable armor for protection. Another acceptable alternative is to
use metal raceway that is nonferrous (such as aluminum conduit or
aluminum EMT), or nonmetallic raceways (such as Schedule 80 PVC or
RTRC-XW conduit) that provide adequate protection from physical
damage.
d. Any ferrous metallic enclosures or raceways containing grounding
electrode conductors shall be electrically continuous from the electrical
equipment to the grounding electrode to ensure that current flow is not
impeded by the inductive element of the circuit. Bonding can be
accomplished by connecting each end of the GEC enclosure or raceway
to the electrical equipment enclosure and the electrode itself.
e. The size of the bonding jumper for ferrous metal raceways or enclosures
containing a grounding electrode conductor must be the same size or
larger than the enclosed grounding electrode conductor.
2.2.6 Repair or Splices in Grounding Electrode Conductors
Grounding electrode conductors can be damaged during construction where

it emerges from the concrete. Repair splicing methods and products are
available for both horizontal and vertical applications. A minimum amount of
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concrete may need to be chipped away to make the appropriate splice repair.
If this is done, suitable repair of the concrete needs to be accomplished.
Where GECs need to be extended to a new service or derived system
location or for modifications to the electrical distribution system, the GEC
must be spliced by means of exothermic welding or irreversible compression
connections listed for this purpose.. Note that connections of grounding
electrode conductors to the grounding electrodes are required to be
accessible if installed above grade level and not encased in concrete or
covered with fire coating material such as on structural steel.
a. In general, wire type GECs installed for services, separately derived
systems, or buildings served by feeder(s) or branch circuit(s) is required
to be run in one continuous length, without splices or joints. However,
wire type GECs can be spliced by means of exothermic welding, or
irreversible compression connectors listed as grounding and bonding
equipment, (Photo 2.2.6 Typical Irreversible Compression Connectors
Listed as Grounding and Bonding Equipment)
Photo 2.2.6 Photo provided by NEMA

b. If busbar is used as the GEC, then specific NEC provisions in allow for
joining the lengths of busbar together with mechanical means (bolts) to
make it continuous. This provision does not give permission to splice
wire type grounding electrode conductors using a busbar with wire type
mechanical pressure connectors. Also, where metal water piping or
structural metal is used to extend the ground connection as provided in
the NEC requirement for continuity has provisions for the joining of the
water pipe or structural metal segments together to meet the continuity
requirements.
c. The NEC and this standard do not include specifics on installation of
lightning protection systems. The only requirement in the NEC is that the
grounding electrode system for the premises wiring be connected
(bonded) to the ground terminals of the lighting protection system.
Further information on the design and installation of lightning protection
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systems can be found in NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of
Lightning Protections System, and from the Lighting Protection Institute.
3. SERVICE ENTRANCE AND BUILDING GROUNDING
A grounding electrode is defined in the NEC as a conducting object through which a direct
connection to earth is established. While this definition opens up many possibilities, the
NEC provides a list of grounding electrodes that are permitted for use in electrical
installations. The grounding electrodes permitted by the NEC are further described in Part
III of Article 250 and discussed in section 3.2.
3.1 General Requirements
a. All electrical systems shall have at each service, separately derived system, or
building served by a feeder(s) or branch circuit(s)a grounding electrode
conductor connected to a grounding electrode system. One exception is a
building served by a single branch circuit including a multi-wire branch circuit that
includes an equipment grounding conductor is not required to have a grounding
electrode installed. While this is allowed and meets the minimum NEC,
consideration should be made for buildings that may be separated by a
significant distance. The concern would be possible potential differences of the
earth (ground) at the building being served from the earth reference from the
equipment grounding conductor of the building providing the branch circuit. For
most dwelling applications, this is not typically a concern, but for farms, buildings
in a campus arrangement, or otherwise separated buildings by some distance
should be reviewed.
b. Two or more grounding electrodes, of the same type or different types, bonded
together form a grounding electrode system.
c. For a grounded system, the grounding electrode conductor shall also be
connected to the grounded service conductor, or the grounded conductor for the
separately derived system and in both cases the metal equipment enclosure.
d. For ungrounded systems , the grounding electrode conductor shall be connected
to the metal enclosure of the service or a separately derived system.
e. For services this connection shall be permitted to occur at any accessible point
from the load end of the service drop or service lateral to the grounded
conductor (neutral) termination (bus, terminal block, or other terminal typically
supported in insulation from the enclosure) in the service disconnecting means
enclosure. The enclosure is prohibited from ever being used as a current path
for the grounded circuit (neutral) conductor.
13
f. For a separately derived system the grounding electrode conductor can be
connected to any point from the source of the separately derived system up to
the point of the enclosure with the first disconnecting means. This will also be
the same location where the system bonding jumper will be required to be
installed.
g. If a separately derived system is outside of the building or structure being
served, the connection of the grounding electrode conductor is required at the
source outside. The main reason for this is in the event of lightning, it is not
desired to have lightning induced current travel on the neutral conductor into the
building to find the connection to earth.
h. One additional consideration is where there are multiple sources of a separately
derived system connected in parallel creating one system. This occurs with
engine-generators that are paralleled together in a paralleling switchboard, or
photovoltaic systems with many inverters with the AC output paralleled together.
In these cases, the multiple sources that are paralleled should be considered as
one separately derived system and the grounding may be best completed in the
paralleling switchgear or common connection point.
i. The grounded conductor (usually a neutral) is generally connected to ground at
only one point on each service or separately derived system. (Fig. 3.1(a)
Grounding of AC Power System).
Fig 3.1(a) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
14
j. The service disconnecting means is frequently the point at which the required
grounding connections are made (Fig. 3.1(b) Service Equipment Grounding
Connections).
k. The connection of the grounding electrode conductor to the metal frame of the
building or structure of fire rated buildings (type IA or IIA) can be made by two
methods.
1. First, exothermic welding the grounding electrode conductor to the structural
metal.
2. Secondly, installing an irreversible compression type connection listed for
grounding and bonding and attaching the lug part to the structural metal by
mechanical means such as bolts.
After installation is completed by either method and inspected, then the building
structural metal can be covered or recovered with the appropriate fire proofing
material.
Fig 3.1(b) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
3.2 Grounding Electrodes
All grounding electrodes that are present at the building or structure served are
required to be bonded together to form the grounding electrode system. The
following types of grounding electrodes are discussed in the Sections listed below:
• Metal Underground Water Piping
• Metal Building Frame
• Concrete-Encased Electrodes
15
• Ground Ring
• Installed Electrodes (such as rods, pipes, or plates)
• Other listed Grounding Electrodes
• Other buried metal structures such as well casings, tanks, etc.
The first three electrodes listed are part of the building construction and generally
installed by other trades, plumber, steel erection, or foundation contractor
respectfully. The other electrodes listed, except the last item, are installed for the
purpose of being a grounding electrode and are generally installed by the electrical
installer.
There are conductive materials that should never be used as grounding electrodes
as follows:
a. Underground gas piping (although gas piping must be bonded to the system).
b. Aluminum material
c. The steel reinforcing shell or metal support structure for an in-ground swimming
pool.
3.2.1 Metal Underground Water Pipe
a. Metal water piping that is in direct contact with the earth for 3.0 m (10 ft)
or more shall be part of the grounding electrode system. The metal water
pipe must be bare metal or if coated the coating material electrically
conductive, such as galvanizing with zinc.
b. When connecting the grounding electrode conductor to the metal water
pipe, a listed clamp or other listed means shall be used to make the
connection. If the clamp is to be buried in the earth then the clamp must
be listed for grounding and bonding and be listed and identified as
suitable for direct burial. This is many times indicated by the letters “DB”
stamped into the clamp body.
c. Ground clamps shall be listed for the materials of which the metal water
pipe is constructed as well as the conductor material of the grounding
electrode conductor.
d. Not more than one grounding electrode conductor shall be connected to
each clamp unless the clamp is listed for multiple connections (Fig.
3.2.1(d)(1) Ground Clamp on Water Pipe Photo 3.2.1(d)(1) Mechanical
Grounding/Bonding Clamp for Water Pipe).
16
Fig 3.2.1(d)(1) Photo of typical water pipe grounding clamp
Photo 3.2.1(d)(1) Photo provided by NEMA

e. The point of connection shall be located anywhere on the pipe in the
earth or up to the first 1.52 m (5 ft) from the point of entrance of the metal
water pipe into the building.
f. Following the definition of a grounding electrode being in the earth, metal
water piping beyond the first 1.52 m (5 ft) into the building is not
considered as part of the grounding electrode system.
g. Unless the water pipe meets the provisions in the NEC for use beyond
the first 5 feet, the metal water pipe shall not be used as a conductor to
interconnect parts of the grounding electrode system. The exception in
the NEC only applies to commercial, institutional, and industrial
occupancies.
h. The metal water pipe electrode is required to be supplemented by an
additional electrode which cannot be another metal water pipe. This is to
ensure when the metal water pipe is replaced or repaired, typically with
non-metallic pipe, which then negates its ability to be a grounding
17
electrode, there is still another suitable electrode in the earth for the
building or structure power system.
i. For the supplementing of the metal water pipe, if the in ground support
structure electrode, concrete-encased electrode, or any of the other
electrodes identified in the NEC are not present for use, an electrode
from the acceptable list will need to be installed to supplement the metal
water piping; see Section 3.6 of this standard.
j. If the supplemental electrode is a rod, pipe or plate, there must be two of
them installed in any combination unless the single rod, pipe, or plate has
a resistance to ground of 25 ohms or less. That ground resistance may
be required to be proven by test with documentation available to the
Authority Having Jurisdiction.
3.2.2 Metal In Ground Support Structure Electrodes
a. If the metal in-ground support structure of the building qualifies as a

grounding electrode in accordance with the NEC, it shall be bonded to
the grounding electrode system. The metal in-ground support structure is
structural metal, such as I-beams, driven into the earth with or without
concrete encasement. These items are driven into the earth to a solid
base (bedrock) to provide support to the building where the soil
conditions cannot provide that support. Other examples of metal in-
ground support structures are casings, concrete pilings with rebar inside.
b. Any of the metal in-ground support structure that is exposed above the
finish grade is generally suitable to use as a conductor to connect to the
electrode portion that is in the earth. The wire type grounding electrode
conductor or grounding electrode bonding jumpers can be connected to
this above grade part of the structure.
c. The connection of the grounding electrode conductor to the structural
metal frame electrode shall be accomplished by the use of exothermic
welding, listed lugs, listed pressure connectors, listed clamps or other
listed means. (Figure 3.3(b) Mechanical Connection to Building Metal
Framing).
d. If the in-ground support structure is a concrete piling with rebar encased,
then the concrete would need to be removed sufficient to expose the
rebar. The grounding electrode conductor or electrode bonding jumper
would be connected to this rebar similar to what is done with a concrete
encased electrode.
e. Where the grounding electrode conductor is to be attached, dirt or non-
conductive coatings such as paint, lacquer and enamel, have to be
18
removed from the contact surfaces of the metal frame to ensure good
electrical continuity.
f. Wire type conductor connections to steel or cast iron that meet any
installation requirements are available (Fig. 3.2.2(d)(1) Cable to Steel or
Cast-Iron Connections using exothermic welds and Photo 3.2.2(d)(1)
Irreversible Compression Connector for Connection Cable to Steel).
Fig 3.2.2(d)(1) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
Photo 3.2.2(d)(1) Photo provided by NEMA
3.2.3 Concrete-Encased Electrodes (Ufer Grounds)
The structural steel within the concrete foundation or footing is usually

referred to as “rebar,” which is short for reinforcing bar (Fig. 3.2.3(a)
19
Foundation Rebar Ground Connection and Fig. 3.2.3(b) Foundation Rebar
Ground Connection). The rebar with encasement can be used as the
concrete encased electrode if the installation meets the several requirements
stated in the NEC. Alternatively, the NEC allows for a 4 AWG bare copper
conductor to be installed at the base of the foundation or footing and
encased by a minimum of 2 inches of concrete. If the rebar is being used,
then connections to the rebar within the building footing or foundation must
be accomplished before the concrete is poured in place. The NEC also
allows for a section of rebar to be bent and installed so that the bottom has
the correct overlap in accordance with the building code and the vertical
portion is above the concrete in a dry non-corrosive environment as shown in
photo 3.2.3(a). Typically, this rebar extension or “stub-up” is in the area of
the service and may be inside a wall space where the connection of the
grounding electrode conductor can be completed. Rebar cannot penetrate
from the concrete in such a way that it is exposed to the earth.
For remodel or building additions, it is not required to disturb concrete
footings or foundations of existing buildings or structures to establish a
concrete-encased electrode.
Where plastic sheeting (vapor barriers) or other insulating materials are
installed under footings or otherwise separate the concrete from the earth
there is not a concreted encased electrode available. Note: Where there is
isolation/insulation between the concrete footing or foundation and the direct
connection to earth is compromised, the concrete no longer qualifies as a
grounding electrode.
Fig 3.2.3(a) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
20
Fig 3.2.3(b) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
Photo 3.2.3(a) Rebar Stub Up with GEC to Panelboard

a. Rebars are required to be electrically continuous (wire ties connecting
crossed rebar at a minimum). This can be done using wire ties, welding,
or other means to secure the rebar together. The installation is generally
done by the concrete (foundation) contractor and details of how to
arrange and connect rebar sections together are under the adopted
building code. (Fig. 3.2.3(c) “UFER” Ground Detail).
21
Fig 3.2.3(c) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
b. The concrete-encased electrode must be covered on all sides by at least
50 mm (2 in.) of concrete and consist of at least 6.0 m (20 ft) of
reinforcing bars of not less than 13 mm (1/2 in.) in diameter (No. 4 rebar)
located near the bottom of a concrete footing or foundation. The
concrete-encased electrode shall be permitted in a horizontal or vertical
arrangement as long as 6.0 m (20 ft) is encased in the concrete. The
electrode is the combination of 20 feet or more of concrete in contact with
the earth that encases the rebar. The rebar is the means to make an
electrical connection to the concrete that is in contact with the earth.
c. Rebar covered with a non-conductive coating, such as epoxy, is not
suitable for use as concrete-encased electrodes.
d. Concrete slabs on grade are not suitable for use as concrete-encased
electrodes. The electrode must be in the foundation or footing. What
constitutes a foundation or footing is best defined in the adopted building
code.
e. Plastic vapor barriers or the use of insulation block forms that remain in
place significantly impede and often isolate the connection between the
concrete and the earth thereby making the assembly not suitable as a
concrete encased electrode.
f. An alternative method of providing a concrete-encased electrode is to
embed at least 20 feet of bare copper conductor, not smaller than 4 AWG
in the concrete at the base of the foundation or footing. The wire acts in
place of the rebar as described above. (Fig. 3.2.3(d) Copper Wire as
Concrete Encased Electrode).
22
Fig 3.2.3(d) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
g. Where the grounding electrode conductor is connected to a buried or

encased electrode, the device used must be listed for direct soil burial
(Fig. 3.2.3(e) Welded Connections for Direct Soil Burial). Options for
these connections include exothermic welding, irreversible compression
connectors, or mechanical connectors that are listed for grounding and
bonding and all being suitable for direct burial application. See photo
3.2.3(b) for examples of mechanical clamps that can be used for
connection to rebar.
Fig 3.4(e) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
23
Photo 3.2.3(b) – Rebar Clamp for GEC
h. For welded connections, it is recommended to locate the weld away from

areas of maximum tensile stress, such as near the free end of the bar in
a lap splice.
If a foundation with rebar is used as part of the grounding electrode
system and to be connected to the structural steel columns, bond the
anchor bolts for structural metal columns to the main rebars (Fig. 3.2.3(f)
Bonding of Anchor Bolts to Rebar). It is also acceptable to install a wire
type bonding jumper by exothermically welding or mechanical means as
discussed for the metal in-ground support structure to the steel member
(column) anchored by the bolts in lieu of connecting the anchor bolts
themselves to the concrete encased rebar.
Fig 3.2.3(f) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

24
3.2.4 Ground Ring
As stated earlier, the metal water pipe, in-ground support structure, and
concrete encased electrodes are part of the building construction and
generally installed by other trades. The ground ring and several electrodes
in following sections are installed specifically to act as a grounding electrode
and generally are installed by the electrical installer.
a. A ground ring is required to consist of at least 6.0 m (20 ft) of 2 AWG
bare copper or larger wire that completely encircles the building. Refer to
Section 4.1 for expanded recommendations for perimeter grounding
using a ring, which exceeds minimum NEC requirements.
b. The ground ring should be in direct contact with the earth at a depth
below the earth surface of at least 750 mm (30 in.). This is the minimum
depth and the installation may be required to be deeper where soil
conditions or frost levels would dictate.
c. If the connection to the ground ring is a direct burial connection, the
ground clamps or fittings must be listed for direct soil burial or exothermic
welding must be chosen (Fig. 3.2.4) Cable Connection to Ground Ring
and Photo 3.5(c) Mechanical Cable Connection to Ground Ring).
d. Install the ground ring and any associated rod, pipe or plate electrodes
and interconnecting conductors 450 mm (18 in.) beyond the roof drip line.
This may provide additional moisture to reduce resistance.
Fig 3.2.4() Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
25
3.2.5 Rod, Pipe, or Plate Electrodes
The NEC has provisions for grounding electrodes that have to be installed
such as rod, pipe, plate, or other listed electrodes. These grounding
electrodes are usually installed when the grounding electrodes inherent to
building construction are not present for use in forming a grounding electrode
system. These electrodes such as rod, pipe, or plate electrodes in many
cases can improve the effectiveness of the overall grounding electrode
system. For example, it is common to install ground rods at corners and
along the perimeter along with a ground ring.
The most commonly installed electrodes consist of one or more rod(s),
pipe(s) or plate(s) as discussed in the following sections.
5.1 Ground Rods

Common selection criteria for ground rods include but are not limited
to:
a. Ground rods shall be stainless steel or have be manufactured
from iron or steel and shall be at least 15.87 mm (5/8 in.) in
diameter. Typically, the iron or steel forms a core with the outer
surface galvanized, clad with copper, or otherwise metal-coated
for protection..
b. Stainless steel and copper or zinc coated ground rods that are not
less than 12.70 mm (1/2 in.) are acceptable if they are listed.
c. A copper-bonded iron or steel ground rod shall have a copper
thickness at least 10 mils
d. A galvanized iron or steel ground rods shall have a galvanized
coating at least 3.9 mils
e. Rods are available with a factory-welded pigtail (Fig. 3.2.5(a)
Grounding Rods with Wire Pigtails). Pigtails could be added in
26
the field by using mechanical, compression, or exothermic
products that are listed and suitable for the application
.
Fig 3.2.5(a)Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
5.2 Installing Ground Rods

Follow these procedures when installing ground rods:
a. Ground rods must be installed (driven) such that at least 2.44 m
(8 ft) of length is in contact with the earth. Ideally, the earth
should not be overly rocky so there is good contact made with the
driven ground rod all along the surface of the rod. The rod should
be installed so that it penetrates below the permanent moisture
level.
b. If rock is encountered when being driven vertically, the ground rod
can be driven at an angle, not to exceed 45° from vertical. If
driving at an angle encounters rock, then it is permitted to bury the
rod in a trench which is at least 30 inches below the earth.
c. The point of connection of the grounding electrode conductor shall
be below or flush with grade unless it is suitably protected against
physical damage. The connector for use below grade must be
listed for grounding and bonding and also as suitable for direct
burial.
d. Where the rod is above the finish grade the required protection
can be by a box or other suitable means made from concrete,
metal, wood or other material suitable to provide physical
protection for the connection. Examples are in figures 3.2.5(b),
3.2.5(c) and 3.2.5(d)
27
Fig 3.2.5(b) Fig 3.2.5(c) Fig 3.2.5(d)
Illustrations 3.2.5(b), (c), and (d) by ERICO Corporation International
e. The basic requirement is to install two rods, pipes or plates in any

combination unless the ground resistance of a single rod, single
pipe or single plate electrode is 25 ohms or less.
f. Unless the surface layer of soil 2.44 m (8 ft) to 3.0 m (10 ft) is of a
relatively low resistivity, the use of multiple rods may not be
effective. Either the rod or rods will need to go deeper or another
type of electrode should to be considered.
g. The NEC requires a minimum separation of 1.83 m (6 ft) between
rod, pipe or plate electrodes. Spacing at distances equal to or
greater than the length of the rod or pipe can reduce the effects of
overlapping spheres of influence.
h. If ground rods are being buried in a trench as indicated above, the
6 feet of spacing still applies so the trench would need to be a
minimum of 22 feet to accommodate two 8-foot ground rods and
have 6 feet of spacing between the ends.
i. Sometimes it is necessary to drive ground rods to a depth of 30 m
(100 ft) to 45 m (150 ft) to reach a low resistivity layer. Since a
continuous rod cannot be installed, rod sections must be spliced.
The methods available are threaded couplers, compression
(threadless) type and welding (Fig 3.2.5(e) Splice Methods for
Ground Rods).
28
Fig 3.2.5(e) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
j. Ground rods may also be spliced using a combination of a screw
coupling and a welded coupling. After the screw coupling is
installed, two exothermic welded connections can be made to
weld the coupling to both the top and bottom rods (Fig. 3.2.5(f)
Screw/Welded Coupling for Ground Rod).
5.3 Connections Between Ground Rods and Conductors
The connection between the ground rod and the conductor is critical
to maintaining the integrity of the grounding system. Clamps or
fittings listed for grounding and bonding are permitted as well as
exothermic welding. The marketplace offers a complete line of
conductor-to-ground rod connections. They are used for both plain or
threaded copper-bonded, galvanized, or stainless-steel rods (Fig.
3.2.5(g) Examples of Exothermic Welded Connections Made with
29
Single-Use Molds and Fig. 3.2.5(h) Examples of Exothermic Welded
Connections Made with Multi-Use Molds). The NEC identifies several
types of connectors for grounding applications but remember when
connecting to a grounding electrode the connector needs to be listed
for grounding and bonding.
Fig 3.2.5(g) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
Fig 3.2.5(h) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
5.4 Pipe Grounding Electrodes
Pipe electrodes are no very common but recent industry feedback

indicates that pipe electrodes are still used in parts of the United
States.
Pipe electrodes shall be metric designator 22 or 3/4-inch trade size or
larger and shall have their outer surface galvanized or another metal
30
coating for corrosion protection. Typically, 10-foot lengths of ¾ inch
rigid metal conduit are used.
a. Pipe electrodes must be installed (driven) such that at least 2.44
m (8 ft) of length is in contact with the earth. Ideally, the earth
should not be overly rocky so there is good contact made with the
driven pipe all along the surface of the rod. The pipe should be
installed so that it penetrates below the permanent moisture level.
b. If rock is encountered when being driven vertically, the pipe can
be driven at an angle, not to exceed 45° from vertical. If driving at
an angle encounters rock, then it is permitted to bury the pipe in a
trench which is at least 30 inches below the earth.
5.5 Plate Electrodes

Plate electrodes are another type of electrode permitted by the NEC.
a. The plate must have at least 1.186 m 2
(2 ft 2) of surface area in
contact with the earth. A plate that is 12 x 12 inches meets the 2
square feet of surface area by counting the top and the bottom
surface areas that are exposed to the earth.
b. The plate may be constructed of iron or steel of at least 6.4 mm
(¼ in.) thick or other nonferrous materials of at least 1.5 mm (0.06
in.) thick.
c. Plate electrodes shall be installed not less than 750 mm (30 in.)
below the surface of the earth.
d. Wherever possible, install plates below the permanent moisture or
frost line.
e. Horizontal and vertical steel surface connections can be used to
connect the grounding electrode conductor to the plate
electrodes.
f. As with all electrode connections, any non-conductive coatings
such as grease or paint shall be removed before making the
connection.
3.2.6 Other listed Grounding Electrodes
There are several varieties of grounding electrodes that are listed to

applicable product safety standards, specifically UL 467 Standard for
Grounding and Bonding Equipment. The NEC recognizes listed electrodes in
general as permitted for use individually or as part of the grounding electrode
system. These listed electrodes are often unique in physical characteristics
and are intended for installation in vertical orientations or horizontal
31
applications. The installation requirements for listed grounding electrodes
that are not specifically addressed in the Code must be followed. The most
common of these “other listed electrodes” are the chemical type grounding
electrodes.
a. Chemical-Type Grounding Electrodes consist of a copper tube filled with
salts. Moisture entering the tube slowly dissolves the salts, which then
leach into the surrounding earth through holes in the tube (Fig. 3.2.6
Chemical Rod). This lowers the earth resistivity in the area around the
electrode, which reduces the electrode resistance.
Fig 3.2.6 Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
b. For maximum efficiency, back-filling the electrode with ground

enhancement material to the level marked on the electrode is
recommended. Chemical electrodes are available in both vertical and
horizontal configurations; some of them are provided with a pigtail welded
to the electrode. Standard pigtail sizes include 4/0 AWG and 2 AWG
tinned solid copper conductors.
c. These electrodes do require periodic maintenance. If local conditions are
right, the breather cap will allow humid air to enter the tubing. As the
temperature varies to a cooler temperature in the tube, condensation will
form and keeps the chemical salts wetted to leach out into the
surrounding soil. Ideally adding water should not be required, but in
some cases, it may be necessary to charge the electrode with water from
time to time. At the end of life further salts may be required to be
replenished in the electrode to keep it active
32
3.2.7 Ground Enhancement Materials and Chemical Rods
Several materials are available to improve the ground resistance. They are
below along with their approximate resistivity values;
• Concrete: 3000 to 9000 ohm-cm (30 -90 ohm-
meter)
• Bentonite (clay): 250 ohm-cm. (2.5 ohm-meter)
• Ground enhancement material: 12 ohm-cm (0.12 ohm-meter)
a. Unusual soil conditions demand additional considerations, e.g., ground

enhancement material or other influences including use of additional
electrodes which can reduce earth resistance. Unusual soil conditions as
used in this section relates to inconsistent or variable soil resistivity due to
multiple factors such as seasonal conditions, climate, or geographical
locations
b. Ground enhancement materials often are used in situations where
reducing earth resistance and maintaining low resistance permanently is
required. It reduces the resistance of the electrode to the earth and
performs in all soil conditions (Fig. 3.2.7(a) Trench Installation with
Ground Enhancement Material). It can be used around ground rods in an
augured hole or installed in a trench (Fig. 3.2.7(b) Ground Rod
Installation with Ground Enhancement Material
Figs 3.2.7(a) and 3.2.7(b) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
33
3.2.8 Lightning Protection Ground Terminals
Grounding electrodes installed for lightning protection systems are known as

ground terminals. These electrodes are not allowed to be used as the
grounding electrodes for the electrical system supplying a building or
structure.
The NEC requires that the ground (earth) terminals of a lightning protection
system be bonded to the electrical service or system grounding electrode or
grounding electrode system. Ideally this should be completed outside the
building or structure and at the earth level from electrode system to electrode
system. Lightning protection for buildings or structures is beyond the scope
of the NEC but is covered in NFPA 780 Standard for the Installation of
Lightning Protection Systems.
4. BUILDING EXTERIOR GROUNDING
The NEC specifies minimum electrical installation requirements with the focus on the
safe use of electricity as provided in the scope of the NEC. For many types of
installations, optimal grounding performance goes beyond minimal safety and requires
the use of additional grounding components and installing grounding systems that are
designed above the minimum requirements in the Code. Figure 4.1 shows many typical
grounding and bonding applications and methods associated with a building or structure
including outside applications. Figure 4.1 is provided as an example of typical grounding
and bonding connections that are either required by the NEC or installed by specification
because of a design consideration.
34
Figure 4.1 Typical building and outside grounding and bonding applications and methods -
Illustration provided by NEMA
4.1 Perimeter Grounding
a. One of the most common methods to provide a grounding electrode for large
buildings is a copper ground ring that is directly buried in the earth and installed
around the perimeter of the building. One consideration for the size of the
ground ring is the size of the electrical service. While the minimum size is 2
AWG copper, but many designs and specifications require 1/0 AWG copper or
larger conductors. Again, these specifications are driven more by performance
needs that go beyond meeting minimum safety requirements.
b. The advantage of this method when grounding large buildings, and facilities with
multiple buildings, is that perimeter grounding provides an equipotential ground
for all the buildings and equipment within each building that are bonded to the
perimeter ground. Also, the larger footprint of the ground rings and
interconnected perimeter grounding will assist in lowering the resistance to earth
of the grounding electrode system.
c. The ground rings are often installed with ground rods at the corners and at
intervals along the ring. The rod is often installed so the top is at the bottom of
the trench for the ground ring and connected to the ring by exothermic welding or
irreversible crimp connectors. Section 4.1.1 below provides further discussion of
this installation.
d. Note, that the NEC minimum is a grounding electrode or grounding electrode
system at each building or structure. There is no NEC requirement that the
grounding electrodes or grounding electrode systems for multiple buildings or
structures be bonded together. The electrode systems are electrically connected
where there are feeders or branch circuits installed with equipment grounding
conductors that would connect to the grounding electrode system as each
building.
e. Another means of effective grounding for a large building with steel structural
framing is to connect perimeter building steel columns to a ground ring, the
concrete encased electrode in the support footing, or the rod electrodes installed
around the perimeter of the building or structure (Fig. 4.1(a) Bonding of Building
Columns). This is often a design specification. The interconnection of the
columns and the electrodes installed in the earth is the steel frame of the
building as permitted in the NEC.
f. The installation of the specific grounding electrode, ring, concrete encased
electrode or rods is discussed in sections 3.2.2, 3.2.3 and 3.2.5 of this standard.
35
.
4.1.1 Triple Ground Rods
Ground rods are sometimes installed in a triangular configuration. These

“triad ground rods” are typically located at the corners of buildings or
structures. (Fig. 4.1.1 Triad Ground Rod Details).

a. Spacing between the ground rods in a triad arrangement should be
equal to or greater than the individual ground rod length.
b. Three rods installed in a straight line may be more efficient and result in
lower overall system impedance depending on soil conditions. Spacing
between ground rods should be equal to or greater than the individual
ground rod length.
4.1.2 Waterstops for Foundation Penetrations
Each grounding electrode conductor of electrode bonding conductor that

passes through a foundation wall must be provided with a “water stop”. This
is especially important when the conductor passes through the foundation
36
wall at a point that is or may become below the water table (Fig. 4.1.2
Waterstop).
4.1.3 Inspection Wells
For ready access to inspect or test ground rod, ring or other buried
electrodes, inspection wells may be placed over a ground rod, or exposed
connections Several methods can be used.
a. A plastic pipe, a clay pipe, or a commercial box can be placed over the rod
(Fig. 4.1.3(a) Plastic Pipe for Inspection Well, Fig. 4.1.3(b) Clay Pipe for
Inspection Well, Fig. 4.1.3(c) Commercial Box for Inspection Well). Plastic
pipe can be custom-fabricated in the field to be installed over an existing
connection.
)
Fig 4.1.3(a) Fig 4.1.3(b) Fig 4.1.3(c)
Illustrations 4.1.3(a), (b), and (c) by ERICO Corporation International
b. If the conductors are planned to be removed from the rod to enable
resistance measurements to be made, either a bolted connector or lug may
be used (Fig. 4.1.3(d) Disconnect with Lugs).
c. A good practice would be to have a connection plate or bus exothermically
welded to the top of the ground rod. Then the grounding electrode conductor
37
or bonding conductor can be mechanically connected to this plate. The use
of irreversible crimp spade lugs listed for grounding and bonding and direct
burial along with stainless steel hardware will minimize corrosion of these
connections and facilitate removal and reinstallation.
4.1.4 Fabricated Wire Mesh
Prefabricated wire mesh is not one of the electrodes recognized by the NEC
but could be a supplement to any of the recognized electrodes as allowed
under “other local metal underground systems or structures”. A possible use
of prefabricated wire mesh is to mitigate step and touch potentials where
indoor or outdoor electrical switchgear, especially medium or high voltage
systems, is installed.
a. When the required resistance is not achieved using the usual grounding
layouts and electrodes available, prefabricated wire mesh can be added
to lower the overall grounding impedance (Fig. 4.1.4 Prefabricated Wire
Mesh). Typically, prefabricated wire mesh products are available in
conductor sizes ranging from 6 to 12 AWG solid.
b. Prefabricated ground mesh is a convenient, efficient and economical
means of improving grounding systems at facilities with high voltage
installations and wherever large area grounds are required.
c. Equipotential mesh reduces step potentials at power plants and
substations, and effectively minimizes ground plane fluctuations at
communications antenna sites. Wire mesh is also an excellent ground
screen, reflector and electronic shield for large facilities.
d. Prefabricated wire mesh should be buried in the earth where needed to
improve grounding or laid on top of the earth to be covered with crushed
rock to assist with step and touch potentials. The final application and
specifics for installation are generally part of the engineered design.
38
4.2 Fence Grounding
The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) recommends that where fences must
be grounded, such grounding shall be designed to limit touch, step and transferred
voltages in accordance with industry practice. The NEC in Part X of Article 250 has
similar requirements with prescriptive text for substations with exposed electrical
conductors.
In accordance with the NESC, the grounding connection must be made either to the
grounding system of the enclosed equipment or to a separate ground. There are six
separate requirements for fences when the NESC requires grounding or bonding:
1. Where gates or other openings are installed, the fence shall be grounded at
each side of the gate or similar opening.
2. If a conducting gate is used, the gate shall be bonded to the station grounding
electrode system, grounding electrode, or fixed posts of the fence. (Fig. 4.2(a)
Grounding of Gates).

3. Where conductive gates are installed, they shall be bonded by a buried bonding
jumper across the opening. (Fig. 4.2(b)
39
4. If the fence contains sections of barbed wire, the barbed wire must also be
bonded to the fence, grounding conductor or other bonding jumper.
Fig 4.2(c) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
Photo 4.2 Photo provided by NEMA

5. If the fence posts consist of a conducting material, a grounding electrode or
bonding conductor must be connected to the fence posts with a suitable
connecting means (Figure 4.2(c) and Photo 4.2 are two examples of suitable
methods for bonding fence sections).
40
6. If the fence posts consist of a non-conducting material, a bonding connection
shall be made to the fence mesh strands and barbed wire strands at each
grounding electrode conductor point (Fig. 4.2(d) Split Bolt Connectors).
Fig 4.2(d) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

Any fence around a substation on the property should be grounded and tied into the
substation ground system. When the substation grounding system is some distance
away, generally more than 6 feet, then the fence should be grounded to a separate
grounding electrode system. Where the grounding grid is close to the fence,
substation grounding grids will typically extend beyond the fence line for 3 feet or
more.
If a facility fence meets the substation fence, the two fences should be electrically
isolated from one another to prevent a fault in the substation from transferred
throughout the facility using fences as conductors (Fig. 4.2(e) Typical Perimeter
Fence Isolation Section). This is done in the safest way by installing a non-
conductive portion of fence at least 1.83 m (6 f long at the junction, if possible.
Fig 4.2(e) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

The NEC add some other grounding connection points for consideration.
1. Bonding jumpers shall be installed at each fence corner and at a maximum 50 m
(160 feet) intervals.
41
2. Where overhead conductors cross the fence line, bonding jumpers shall be
installed on each side of the crossing.
3. The grounding grid or grounding electrode system shall extend to cover the
swing of all gates.
4.3 Grounding of Other Exterior Items
The term “Grounded (Grounding) implies that a conductive object is connected to

ground (earth) or to a conductive body that is an extension of the ground connection
(grounding electrode). Equipment grounding conductors (EGCs) and grounding
electrode conductors (GECs) are conductive bodies that extend the ground
connection.
When auxiliary grounding electrodes are installed for equipment, one should always
be sure that the equipment grounding conductor of the circuit supplying the
equipment is connected to the equipment in addition to any grounding conductor
from an auxiliary electrode.
a. Handhole, maintenance hole and pull box covers, if conductive, should be
bonded to the grounding system using a flexible equipment grounding or
bonding conductor (Fig. 4.3(a) Pull Box Cover Grounding).
b. The NEC requires that metal covers and other exposed conductive surfaces
shall be bonded in accordance with the same bonding requirements for service
raceways if the conductors in the handhole are service conductors, or in
accordance with the requirements for bonding other enclosures if the conductors
in the handhole are feeder or branch-circuit conductors.

c. A means must be provided in each metal box for the connection of an
equipment-grounding conductor (EGC) or a supply side bonding jumper.
42
d. Metal covers for pull boxes, junction boxes or conduit bodies shall also be
grounded (connected to an equipment grounding conductor, or supply side
bonding jumper) if they are exposed and likely to become energized.
e. When hinged metal poles, less than 6.0 m (20 ft) in height, are installed, both
parts of the hinged base shall be bonded to ensure the required low
impedance connection.
f. Lighting standards in parking lots and other areas where the public may
come in contact with them should be grounded (connected to an auxiliary
electrode and the equipment grounding conductor) (Fig. 4.3(b) Lighting Pole
Grounding). The auxiliary electrode may be a ground rod installed in the
excavation for the lighting standard foundation, or it may be the rebar cage
assembly if that qualifies as a concrete encased electrode as discussed in
section 3.2.3 of this standard. The auxiliary grounding electrode, equipment
grounding conductor of the branch circuit, and the metal pole are required to
be connected together. The earth cannot serve as an effective ground-fault
current path (equipment grounding conductor).

g. Electric signs on poles and mounted on buildings are required to be
grounded as specified in Article 600 of the NEC.
h. Lighting standards and electric signs on poles, which are grounded by the
use of a separate auxiliary ground rod or other grounding electrode, must
also be connected to an equipment-grounding conductor of the supply
branch circuit to ensure that the overcurrent protective device will operate in
ground fault conditions. The in-ground support structural member for a sign
may qualify as the grounding electrode if it meets the NEC requirements for
that electrode (section 3.2.2 of this standard) or is connected to a concrete
encased electrode (section 3.3.3 of this standard).
i. Rails or sidings into hazardous locations such as grain storage facilities,
ammunition supply depots, etc., should also be properly bonded and
43
grounded (Fig. 4.3(c) Rail Siding Grounding). Distant lightning strikes can
travel through the rails for many miles.
Fig 4.3(c) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

j. In northern climates suitable bonding jumpers should be connected across
slip joints on water pipes to enable thawing currents to be applied without
burning the joint gasket (Fig. 4.3(d) Water Pipe Bonding).
Fig 4.3(d) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

Other items located on the outside of the building that should be grounded in addition to
lighting standards, pull box covers, may include hand rails and railings and similar
conductive parts when the possibility they could become energized exists.
4.4 Single Grounding Electrode System
All of the components (electrodes) discussed in Section 3 comprise the grounding

electrode system for a building or structure. However, not all of these electrodes or
components will be present or installed at every building or structure. All
components that are present or installed must be bonded together to form a single
grounding system; multiple separate grounding electrode systems are not permitted
within the same building or structure. If a building or structure is supplied by two or
more services, the grounding electrodes for the two services shall be bonded
44
together. Two or more grounding electrodes that are bonded together are
considered a single grounding system.
The bonding together of separate grounding electrodes or grounding electrode
systems can be accomplished using any one or combination of any of the following.
a. Wire type bonding jumpers
b. Ground ring
c. Structural metal interconnected to form the building frame

d. Metallic water piping system in commercial, institutional or industrial facilities
where it meets the NEC allowance for use more than 5 feet from the entrance to
the building.
4.5 Grounding Electrodes for Separate Buildings or Structures
Buildings or structures supplied by a feeder(s) or branch circuit(s) are required to

have a grounding electrode or grounding electrode system in accordance with Part
III of Article 250. At least one of the grounding electrodes in Section 3.1 shall be
used if present or another one of the identified electrode(s) shall be installed at a
separate building or structure supplied by a feeder or branch-circuit.. Examples of
building or structures that require grounding electrodes are:
• Detached garages
• Storage buildings
• Agricultural barns
• Billboard or other informational signs
• Traffic signal controllers
• Buildings served by feeder from a central utilities building or other service point
for multiple buildings in a campus arrangement such as schools, medical
centers, and industrial complexes.
• Any other similar type buildings structures.
These buildings and structures are typically supplied from another building or
structure where the utility service power is located. There are some cases where
the separate buildings or structures have their own service and in those cased the
grounding electrode and bonding requirements for a service apply. Note, that the
service may be at the utilization voltage (typical) but is often provided at medium or
high voltage. In the cases of medium or high voltage the supplies to buildings from
the service are still feeders.
45
Where a single branch circuit or a multi-wire circuit is the only electrical power
system to the building or structure and the circuit includes an EGC, the grounding
electrode is not required to be installed.
4.6 Additional Equipment Installed Outside a Building
Under the definition for a structure to no longer include equipment, there are
situations where equipment installed outside a building should have consideration to
install a grounding electrode or grounding electrode system.
The main purpose of this grounding is to provide a local earth reference the metal
enclosures or other exposed metal non-current carrying parts. This earth reference
is there to minimize any potential difference that could arise from the use of the
equipment and to mitigate possible shock hazards for operators or service personnel
that are standing on the earth and contacting the metal enclosure or other metal
parts.
Examples of such equipment could include but would not be limited to:
a. Generators installed with a weather enclosure outside, especially larger units
with a base tank and enclosure designed for personnel to enter.
b. Large all metal prefabricated cooling tower assemblies installed separate from
the building in its own basin of water.
c. Prefabricated electrical buildings designed for personnel to enter and containing
switchgear, lighting, HVAC and other electrical equipment.
Photo 4.6 – Prefabricated Electrical Building
46
5. BUILDING INTERIOR BONDING AND GROUNDING
5.1 Bonding
5.1.1 Service Equipment Bonding
Service equipment is any equipment necessary for the main control and
means of deenergizing the supply of electricity to a building or structure.
Specifically, the following service equipment that contain service conductors
must be effectively bonded together:
a. service raceways
b. cable trays
c. service cable armor/sheath

d. grounded conductor
e. cable bus framework
f. service equipment enclosures

g. Enclosures for other than service equipment installed ahead of the
service equipment enclosure such as metering enclosures, current
transformer enclosures, junction and pull boxes.
In addition to the service raceways, and enclosures any ferrous metal
raceways which contain a grounding electrode conductor shall be bonded to
the same requirements.
.
There are several permissible methods to bond the service equipment
together:
1. Use the grounded service conductor. On the line side of the service
equipment there is no separate equipment-grounding conductor or
equipment bonding conductor by definition of these terms. The grounded
conductor assumes this role as well as generally that of the supply side
bonding jumper between enclosures on the line side of the service.
Permissible means for any connection made to the grounded conductor
include exothermic welded connections, listed pressure connectors, listed
clamps, and other listed means.
As discussed in section 4.5 of this standard a feeder to another building
or structure with both a neutral and an equipment grounding conductor,
the equipment grounding conductor is used for bonding. This feeder
47
does not result in a service at the building served so these requirements
do not apply.
2. Use threaded raceway connections. This includes threaded couplings,
bosses, or hubs. It is important that these connections be installed
wrenchtight to ensure a low-impedance connection and to maintain
mechanical integrity when carrying a fault current.
3. Use threadless couplings or connectors. These fittings are available for
rigid metal conduit (RMC), intermediate metal conduit (IMC), and EMT.
Again, it is important that the connections be made up wrenchtight. With
RMC or IMC, the use of standard locknuts, even if a double arrangement
is used, (one on the inside and one on the outside) or a locknut and
bushing is specifically prohibited, to achieve the bonding required.
For EMT, if used, outside or in a wet location, be sure all fittings are listed
raintight.
4. Use other listed devices. This would include fittings such as bonding-
type locknuts and grounding bushings with bonding jumpers, and
grounding wedges. Remember that raceways require good mechanical
assembly as well as electrical conductivity. If threaded conduit or nipples
are being installed with bonding bushings, be sure that either both
locknuts are installed, one inside and one outside, then install the
bushing wrench tight for bonding. Alternatively, if the bonding bushing is
to provide the mechanical joining inside the enclosure then thread the
outside locknut as far as it will go and after inserting the conduit install
the bushing until it is on wrench tight. The tighten the outside locknut to
complete the installation on the outside.
5.1.2 Intersystem Bonding
Installers of the service equipment generally must provide a means for

interconnecting the grounding/bonding systems of communication circuits,
radio and television equipment and CATV circuits. An intersystem bonding
termination device for connecting grounding and bonding conductors of other
systems must be installed external to service equipment and at the
disconnecting means for separate buildings or structures. Interservice
bonding terminations are not required on services or feeders to out buildings
or structures not likely to have communication circuits or equipment installed.
Examples include services to irrigation pivots or pumps, well pump
equipment, accessory buildings used for storage and the like.
The intersystem bonding termination must have provisions (listed terminals)
for terminating a minimum of three intersystem bonding or grounding
48
electrode conductors. The intersystem bonding termination equipment must
be installed so as not to interfere with enclosure access covers or doors.
The following are acceptable intersystem bonding terminations:
a. A set of terminals securely mounted to the meter enclosure and
electrically connected to the meter enclosure. The terminals must be
listed as grounding and bonding equipment.
b. A bonding bar near the service equipment enclosure, meter enclosure, or
raceway for service conductors. The bonding bar shall be connected with
a minimum 6 AWG copper conductor to an equipment grounding
conductor(s) in the service equipment enclosure, meter enclosure, or
exposed nonflexible metallic raceway. See photo 5.1.2(a) for example of
listed intersystem bonding bar.
c. A grounding/bonding terminal bar near the grounding electrode
conductor. The grounding/bonding terminal bar must be connected to the
grounding electrode conductor with a minimum 6 AWG copper conductor.
Photo 5.1.2(a) Intersystem Bonding Termination

d. An alternative more suited to commercial, institutional, and industrial
installations is to provide the minimum ¼ x 2-inch copper or aluminum
grounding busbar by whatever length is needed. This busbar can serve
many functions including being used to bond the several grounding
electrodes present together as permitted by the NEC, connection as or to
a common grounding electrode conductor to serve separately derived
systems, or multiple services. As long as the minimum three terminals
(lugs) are provided for the interservice bonding of the communication
systems, it can also serve this purpose. Labeling of these terminals may
be beneficial to ensure they are not inadvertently used for other
49
grounding or bonding purposes. See photo 5.1.2(b) for example of
grounding bar.
Photo 5.1.2(b) Grounding Bar

For existing buildings or structures where the service equipment is already in
place and operational, there are three options to facilitate the interconnection
of these limited energy system grounding electrode and bonding conductors:
a. Use the exposed metallic service raceways;
b. Connect directly to the exposed grounding electrode conductor ;
c. Bond a copper or other corrosion-resistant conductor of at least a 6 AWG

copper, to the service raceway or equipment and leave exposed to
access with three terminals for the connection of the communications
grounding electrode or bonding conductors.
5.1.3 Bonding Other Enclosures
In addition to the service equipment enclosures, other noncurrent-carrying

enclosures shall be bonded if they are to serve as equipment grounding
conductors:
a. metal raceways
b. cable trays
c. cable armor
d. cable sheaths
e. enclosures for wiring system such as wireways, gutters, pull and junction
boxes
f. equipment enclosures
g. frames
h. fittings
50
i. any other metal noncurrent-carrying parts
This requirement applies regardless of whether a wire type equipment-
grounding conductor is installed. Any conductor installed to act as an
equipment grounding conductor shall meet all the applicable NEC
requirements regardless if there is another equipment grounding conductor
already present.
5.1.4 Bonding for Circuits Over 250 Volts
a. Metallic raceways and cables with metal sheaths containing electrical

circuits operating at over 250 volts to ground are required to be bonded
to ensure electrical continuity of metal raceways or cable armors or
sheaths. The permissible methods are the same as those used for
service equipment with the exception of the grounded conductor, which is
generally not permitted for bonding in locations on the load side of the
service disconnecting means.
b. When enclosures other than listed metallic device boxes with oversized
concentric or eccentric knockouts are used with circuits over 250-volts,
one of the methods listed in section 5.1.1 of this standard must be utilized
to achieve the required bonding. Listed outlet or device boxes are boxes
with a volume maximum of 100 cubic inches. Any of the following
methods may be used with listed metallic boxes that have concentric or
eccentric knockouts:
a. Threadless couplings and connectors for metal sheath cables
b. Double locknut installations for RMC, and IMC
c. Fittings with shoulders, which seat firmly against the enclosure such
as for EMT, Flexible metal conduit (FMC), liquid tight flexible metal
conduit, and cable connectors,
d. Other listed fittings.
5.1.5 Bonding of Piping Systems and Exposed Structural Steel
Any interior piping systems, such as potable water, or any piping which
contains a liquid or a gas, and “may become energized,” shall be bonded.
The permissible bonding locations are to the
a. Service equipment enclosure
b. Grounding electrode conductor where of sufficient size
c. Service grounded conductor
51
d. One or more grounding electrodes that comprise the grounding electrode
system.
5.1.6 Building Interior Bonding
Any exposed structural metal, which is interconnected to form a building

frame and is not intentionally grounded, shall be bonded to the service and to
any separately derived system serving the area where the structural metal is
exposed. (Fig. 5.1.6(a) Building Steel Bonding) The connections can be
made using irreversible compression connector, mechanical connectors, or
exothermic welding processes.
a. Structural metal that has its joints welded, connected by bolts, rivets, or
other similar devices that form a metal to metal contact are suitable for
interconnecting the columns and beams. If the junctions have not joined
to be electrically continuous such as gaps or expansion joints, the interior
columns and beams could require positive bonding of beams to columns
to provide long term low-resistance connections for electrical continuity
throughout the building (Fig. 5.1.6(a) Building Steel Bonding).
Fig 5/1/6(a) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

b. On building where there is exposed steel structure, welding or otherwise
bonding a grounding/bonding terminal busbar to the column provides for
future attachment points for other grounding electrode or bonding
conductors (Fig. 5.1.6(b) Grounding Bar Welded to Column).
52
c. At building expansion joints, a flexible conductor bonds the columns or
beams on each side of the joint (Fig. 5.1.6(c) Expansion Joint Bonding
Detail). The connection of the flexible conductor can be by exothermic
welding, irreversible crimp connectors, or irreversible crimp lugs to the
bonding conductor with the lug connected to the column or beam with
bolts.

d. The bottom chord of a bar joist can be easily bonded (Fig. 5.1.6(d)(1) and
(d)(2) Bonding of Bar Joist). The connection of the flexible conductor can
be by exothermic welding, irreversible crimp connectors, or irreversible
crimp lugs to the bonding conductor with the lug connected to the column
or beam with bolts.
Fig 5.1.6(d)(1) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
53
Fig 5.1.6(d)(2) Illustration provided by NEMA
e. Bond steel columns within the building to the footer with the conductor
extending to the main ground grid (Fig. 5.1.6(e) Structural Footer
Bonding)
Fig 5.1.6(e) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International On multi-

floor buildings, the common grounding electrode conductor shall extend
to each floor (Fig. 5.1.6(f) Grounding System Routing). The common
grounding electrode conductor can be the structural metal connected
together to form the frame of the building, a wire type conductor with a
minimum 3/0 copper or 250 kcmil aluminum or a metal water pipe
system meeting the NEC requirements to extend beyond the first 5 feet
of entry into the building. The water pipe system would have to meet the
following provisions.
1. Shall be in a commercial, institutional, or industrial building with
proper maintenance and supervision to ensure continuity of the
metal water piping system
2. Water piping system visible without disturbing or having to remove
building structure or finish except for floor and wall penetrations.
Removal of drop ceiling tiles and the like is acceptable
3. Floor or wall penetrations are to be perpendicular to the floor or
wall
54
f. To provide accessible grounding connection points at each floor, a good
practice would be install a minimum ¼ x 2-inch copper or aluminum
grounding busbar. The busbar length should be sufficient to attach the
number of wire lugs anticipated and considering future needs. This
busbar would provide for terminations for grounding electrode conductors
for separately derived systems or other items needing grounding or
bonding. (see 4.3 and Fig. 5.1.6(g) Grounding/Bonding Terminal Bar
Placement).
Any wire type common grounding electrode conductor must remain
unspliced or if spliced, then it must be by exothermic welding or
irreversible crimp. Any mechanical connection for continuity of the
common grounding electrode conductor is not allowed. Grounding
electrode conductors from separately derived systems and bonding
conductors connecting to the busbar can use any listed wire connector
including mechanical lugs bolted to the busbar. Connection directly to
the wire type common grounding electrode conductor can be by
exothermic welding, irreversible crimp connector, or mechanical means
such split bolt connectors listed for grounding and bonding.
55
Fig. 5.1.6(g) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
g. Cast copper alloy grounding plates can be embedded in concrete
structures for attachment of future equipment grounding, or grounding
electrode conductors (Fig. 5.1.6(h)(1) Flush Floor Grounding Plate and
Fig. 5.1.6(h)(2) Equipment Grounding Plate at Concrete Column). The
plates are provided with drilled and tapped holes for lug attachment.
Another alternative is using a compression floor grounding plate (Photo
5.1.6(h)(3)
Fig 5.1.6(h)(1) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
56
Fig 5.1.6(h)(2) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

h. These plates are also available with a pigtail already attached from the
factory (Fig. 5.1.6(i) Pre-Fab Grounding Plates).
Fig 5.1.6(i) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

i. Where columns are fire-proofed, an alternative connection for the
structural metal is to exothermically weld grounding plates to steel
columns as shown in Fig. 5.1.6(j) Grounding Plate on Stem Welded to
57
Column) or attach a terminal connection means (lug) to the surface as
allowed by the NEC.
Fig 5.1.6(j) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

j. Light duty grounding points, such as those used for grounding conductive
floors for static concerns, can be made in office columns (Fig. 5.1.6(k)
Light-Duty Grounding Provisions).
Fig 5.1.6(k) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

k. In areas where a conductive floor is used, such as a data processing
equipment room, it is bonded to the ground system as shown in Fig.
5.1.6(l) Detail – Conductive Floor Ground.
58
Fig 5.1.6(l) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
l. In areas where static electricity must be controlled, bond metal doors and
frames (Fig. 5.1.6(m) Bonding of Metal Doors and Frames).
Fig 5.1.6(m) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

m. At large facilities having multiple buildings with underground
utilities, one means of grounding cable racks in maintenance manholes is
shown in Fig. 5.1.6(n)(1) Cable Rack Grounding. Alternative means
includes crimp lugs on bonding conductors bolted to the rack.
59
Fig 5.1.6(n)(1) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
Fig 5.1.6(n)(2) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
n. Metal handrails that could become energized should be grounded. A

good practice is to use cast copper alloy grounding plates embedded in
the concrete at frequent intervals (Fig. 5.1.6(o) Metal Handrail
Grounding).
Fig 5.1.6(o) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
60
5.2 Equipment Grounding and Bonding
5.2.1 Equipment Fastened in Place
There are six general conditions under which exposed noncurrent-carrying

metal parts of fixed equipment likely to be energized must be connected to
an equipment grounding conductor:
a. Whenever such metal parts are located within a zone that extends within
2.44 m (8 ft) vertically and 1.52 m (5 ft) horizontally of ground or any
grounded objects which may be contacted by persons. This establishes
a “reach or touch zone” that ensures protection if persons standing on the
ground or a grounded surface could come in contact with such objects.
b. Exposed metal parts installed in wet or damp locations and are not
isolated.
c. Metal parts when in electrical contact with metal.
d. In hazardous (classified) locations.
e. Exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment must be
connected to the equipment grounding conductor anytime such
equipment is supplied by metal-clad or metal-sheathed cables, metal
raceways, or any other wiring method which functions as an equipment
grounding conductor.
f. Where fixed equipment operates with any terminal at over 150 volts to
ground, any exposed noncurrent-carrying parts of such equipment must
be grounded.
5.2.2 Specific Equipment Fastened in Place
In general, any exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts which are likely to

become energized associated with any of the following equipment/locations
shall be connected to an equipment grounding conductor:
a. Switchgear and switchboard frames and structure unless the system is 2
wire DC and the frame is effectively isolated from ground
b. The generator and motor frames for electric pipe organs
c. Motor frames
d. Enclosures for motor controllers
e. Elevators and cranes
f. Commercial garages
61
g. Theaters and motion picture studios except pendant lampholders
supplied at less than 150 volts to ground
h. Electric signs outline lighting and associated equipment
i. Motion picture projection equipment,
j. Equipment supplied by Class 1 circuits unless the voltage is less than 50
volts to ground. Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited remote-
control, signaling and fire alarm circuits where system grounding is
required.
k. Luminaires
l. Motor-operated water pumps including the submersible type
m. Metal well casings where submersible pump installed
5.2.2 Equipment Bonding
In general, any exposed non-current-carrying metal parts which are likely to

become energized associated with electrically-powered equipment/locations
should be bonded to the facility grounding system. This is generally
accomplished with the equipment grounding conductor installed with the
circuit supplying the equipment. This can also be supplemented by installing
an auxiliary grounding electrode that is connected to the equipment
grounding conductor of the circuit.
a. Ground motorized equipment as shown in Fig. 5.2.2(a) Large Motor
Grounding Detail.
Fig 5.2.2(a) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

b. Installing grounding plates as discussed in section 5.1.6 provides
accessible grounding points throughout the building
62
c. When removable grounds are required near a grounded column or beam,
a stud can be welded to the steel and the bonding jumper can be
attached using a lug (Fig. 5.2.2(b) Removable Ground Detail). Providing
mechanical protection to the stud is recommended. Alternatively, the
grounded column or beam can have a grounding bus installed that is
bonded to the column or beam through the installation (welding), as
described in section 5.1.6(b) of this standard, or by a bonding jumper
installed from the steel to the bus.

d. In metallic cable tray installations, bolted joints do not always provide the
required low resistance. Metallic cable tray systems that are not
classified by a recognized testing laboratory have not been evaluated for
suitability as an equipment grounding conductor. Classified metallic
cable tray installed with all the parts and hardware supplied by the
manufacture and in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation
instructions can be used as an equipment grounding conductor. Where
cable tray sections are discontinuous, bonding of the sections together is
completed to provide the equipment grounding path. If the cable tray is
not suitable as an equipment grounding conductor or if it is to be
supplemented, a separate wire type equipment grounding conductor can
be installed the length of the tray, bonded to each tray section and as
needed to adjacent steel columns, or optionally, jumpers can be used
across each joint. The cable can be connected to the steel cable tray by
exothermic welding or by listed connection devices (Fig. 5.2.2(c) Bonding
Steel Cable Tray) bolted to the tray. Aluminum cable tray connection will
be made by bolting the conductor terminal to the aluminum tray.(Fig.
5.2.2(d) Bonding Aluminum Cable Tray).
63

e. Metal parts of electric signs and outline lighting systems that may
become energized are required to be grounded. Grounding and bonding
requirements for signs and outline lighting systems are included in Article
600 of the NEC. For high-voltage secondary circuits of neon signs and
outline lighting installations, bonding separate metal parts of the system
is required and the bonding conductor is required to be installed external
to the raceway containing the high voltage secondary conductor. If a
non-metallic raceway is installed, the external bonding conductor must be
spaced a minimum of 1 ½ inches from the conduit, if the circuit is
operating at 100 Hz or less, and 1 ¾ inches when the circuit is operating
at over 100 Hz.
f. Metal parts of buildings or structures are not permitted as a bonding
means for metal parts of signs or outline lighting installations.
64
5.2.3 Receptacle Grounding
a. Generally, all grounding-type receptacles should be installed with a

consistent orientation. For the vertical orientation it is up to the owner,
engineer or the installer to determine if the equipment grounding
conductor pin at the top or the bottom. If the horizontal orientation is
used, again it is up to the owner, engineer or the installer to determine if
the neutral conductor slot at the top or the bottom. Whatever the
determination all receptacles should be installed in a consistent
orientation unless there is a specific meaning to using the alternative
orientation, such as signifying something such as a switched receptacle.
Ginger, Can we remove the border on this figure? Thanks
b. The equipment-grounding conductors should be terminated on the
receptacle in a manner such that the disconnection of the receptacle will
not interrupt the continuity of the equipment-grounding conductor.
Equipment grounding conductors run with branch circuit conductor should
be spliced together and a “pigtail” or pigtails are run to the receptacle as
well as to any metal device box.
c. Non-grounding type receptacles shall be replaced with another non-grounding
type receptacle or with a GFCI type receptacle marked “No Equipment Ground”.
d. Non-grounding type receptacles are permitted to be replaced with grounding-type
receptacles supplied though a GFCI protected circuit and are required to be
marked “GFCI protected, No Equipment Ground”.
e. Where an equipment grounding means exists in an enclosure or the receptacle is
connected to an equipment grounding conductor located in the area as provided
in the NEC a non-grounding type receptacle is permitted to be replaced by a
grounding-type receptacle.
f. All metal faceplates of receptacles and switches must be grounded by

connection to the equipment grounding conductor.
5.2.4 Isolated Ground (IG) Receptacles
IG (isolated ground) receptacles are frequently used for electronic/data

processing equipment applications. The main purpose is to provide isolation
from parts of the equipment grounding circuits that could be generating or
transmitting electrical “noise” that may affect performance of sensitive
electronic equipment. The use of the IG receptacle does not negate the
requirement to have an effective ground fault current path for any ground
faults that may occur in equipment plugged into the IG receptacle.
a. The NEC requires that IG receptacles be identified by an orange triangle
located on the face of the receptacle.
65
b. The receptacle grounding terminal must be grounded by an insulated
equipment-grounding conductor run with the circuit conductors.
c. A recommended practice is to identify the isolated equipment grounding
conductor as green with one or more yellow stripes. For conductors 4
AWG or larger that are permitted to be identified at terminations, the
identification of the isolated equipment grounding conductor can be
accomplished by wrapping a portion of the conductor with green phase
tape and then applying a single width wrap with yellow phase tape.
d. If the isolated grounding receptacle is installed in the patient care space,
but outside the patient care vicinity, the NEC requires the isolated
equipment grounding conductor to be identified with the green and yellow
stripe.
e. The isolated equipment-grounding conductor is permitted, but not
required, to be installed through one or more panelboards, boxes,
wireways, or other enclosures provided it terminates within the same
building to the equipment-grounding conductor terminal for the applicable
derived system or service. The isolated equipment grounding conductor
is required to terminate to the main equipment grounding conductor at
some point. That point is anywhere from the receptacle up to the system
supply. In no case is the isolated equipment grounding conductor
permitted to go beyond the service, or separately derived system
supplying the branch circuit. Where installed in a building supplied by a
feeder or branch circuit, the isolated equipment ground is not permitted to
be installed beyond the main disconnecting means for that building.
f. The isolated equipment-grounding conductor must be in addition to the
regular equipment-grounding conductor for the branch circuit.
5.3 Grounding Bus and Grounding Terminal Bars
A grounding bus installed around the inside walls of a room, provides a convenient
grounding connection means for multiple pieces of equipment or bonding/equipment
grounding conductors. Grounding bus bars of this type are often installed in data
processing, telecommunications or radio/TV facilities. As has been discussed in
several sections of this standard, planning and installation of an external accessible
grounding bus in the electrical rooms, service area and other locations can be very
advantageous for initial construction and for future tenant improvements or remodel.
As a case example, consider a multi-occupancy commercial building with several
different tenant/businesses. The initial shell contractor installs a grounding bus in
the main electrical room and uses it to bond all the grounding electrodes together.
The contractor also uses it to bond the main building metallic water system and the
building structural metal. When the contractor installs the “house service” the
66
grounding electrode conductor for that service is routed from the service equipment
to this grounding bar. If this building has many floors, a minimum 3/0 copper or 250
kcmil aluminum wire type common grounding electrode conductor can be installed in
the electrical riser with a grounding bar installed in the electrical room on each floor.
Installation of the common grounding electrode conductor must ensure it is not
spliced or if so the splicing is done with exothermic welding or irreversible crimp. For
this riser installation, laying type lugs would be an alternative to install without
splicing. As each new tenant service is installed that tenant electrical contractor can
install that tenant service grounding electrode conductor to the provided grounding
busbar and will already have the metallic water and structural metal bonding
completed. In the future as any service change is needed all that is disturbed to
compete the remodel is the service and the grounding electrode conductor for that
tenant while all other services remain undisturbed.
a. Grounding bus is normally mounted using stand-off brackets with insulators.
(Fig. 5.3 Wall-Mounted Ground Bus and 5.3(a) Floor-Mounted Ground Bus. The
busbar can be attached to the wall, but this mounting away from the wall permits
the installation of wire terminals using bolts and nuts making a much easier
installation and for any future changes. The busbar is commercially available
from several sources but the contractor can manufacturer their own as long as
the busbar is a minimum ¼ x 2 inches with length determined by the need.
Fig 5.3 Illustration by ERICO Corporation International
67
b. A grounding bus can be installed around doors using busbars or jumpers, as
shown in Fig 5.3(b) Grounding Installed Around Doorways and Fig. 5.3(c)
Grounding Bar Wall-Mounted and Photo 5.3(c) Grounding Bar Wall-Mounted.
Fig 5.3(c) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International In installations

with raised floors, such as information technology equipment (ITE) rooms, the
bus may be mounted above the raised floor, or mounted between the structural
floor and the raised floor.
6. BONDING AND GROUNDING OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
6.1 Performance Bonding and Grounding
Over and above “Safety Bonding and Grounding” practices described in Section 5,
electronic systems often require “Performance Bonding and Grounding”. What
makes electronic systems different is the sensitivity of their circuit components to
relatively small transient currents and voltages as well as low level signals at high
frequencies. It is also inherent in the nature of electronic devices to operate as very
fast speeds also known as “clock speed”; so, they are affected by equally “fast”
electrical disturbances.
There is no conflict between the “Safety Bonding and Grounding” and the more
specialized grounding and bonding practices described in this section, which are
intended to enhance the reliability of electronic systems.
68
a. Field-installed electrical grounding/bonding conductors routed between the metal
frame or enclosures of separate units of electronic equipment should be
connected to the EGC at both ends.
b. Sometimes two bonding jumpers of different lengths are required in connecting
equipment together or to a signal reference grid (discussed in the next section)
so the bonding will perform at a wide range of frequencies.
c. Bonding jumpers may need to use fine stranded conductors or even flat braided
conductors. Again, this is not necessarily for current carrying capability but the
ability to carry high frequencies which travel on the surface or “skin” of the
conductor.
d. Isolation transformers with electrostatic shielding between the windings may be
required to supply panelboard(s) used to serve branch circuit power to the
electronic equipment.
e. Do not create an “isolated” ground (this is different than using an isolated
grounding receptacle) for any equipment which is not connected to the facility
electrical distribution grounding system. A common installation error which can
create serious safety consequences is to disconnect the branch circuit
equipment grounding conductor and to install a direct connection to a separate
grounding electrode. This attempt to create a separate “clean” ground reference
is dangerous, and typically does not improve electronic equipment performance.
6.2 Signal Reference Grounding Grid
The focus for grounding and bonding in most installations is at the power system
frequency, which in the US is 60 Hz and other parts of the world 50 Hz. For the
power parts of electronic equipment this still holds true, but for the internal
functioning and communication aspects of electronic equipment, especially anything
with a micro-processer in it, electrical trades persons have to also understand what
is going in the kilo-hertz, mega-hertz and even giga-hertz frequency ranges. Some
considerations to mitigate problems are:
a. Cables between electronic enclosures in equipment rooms should be routed
close to the structural floor below the raised floor or platform.
b. The best results are obtained when these cables are laid in close proximity to a
specially installed signal reference grid under a raised floor normally used in an
information technology (computer) room.
c. If wireways are used to route cables, they should be metal, continuously
grounded and bonded, and have a tight cover fastened by screws.
d. Additional bonding connections should be made at several points along the
entire length of the metal raceway, wireway or tray.
69
e. If cables are routed in a cable tray or wireway, random lay is preferred rather
than “neat” bundling. Random lay decreases the coupling of noise from one
adjacent conductor into the other.
f. Another way to achieve a random lay is the use of specifically designed cable
supports attached to fasteners in the ceiling or under the raised floor. The
sequence of “close” bundling inside the support (e.g., a J-hook) and “open”
bundle in the 1.22 m (48 in.) to 1.52 m (60 in.) between supports virtually
guarantees that no two cables run parallel in close proximity for more than a few
feet.
g. Telecommunications cables should be separated from power cables and
conduits as far as possible; crossovers should be made at right angles or as
close to right angles as possible.
h. In addition to being well grounded/bonded to the equipment at the ends of the
run, the metal raceway, wireway or tray should also be bonded to any nearby
structural steel along the run.
i. All metallic piping, ducting, conduit/raceway, wireway and cable tray located
within 6 feet (horizontal or vertical) of any installed Signal Reference Grid (SRG)
shall be bonded to the SRG. Fluids, including air, going through piping or ducts
will create static charges that when discharged can cause damage to sensitive
electronic equipment.
j. One typical approach for making connections to the SRG is to embed a
grounding plate at each intersection of the SRG conductors on a spacing of
around .186 m (2 ft) x.186 m (2 ft) or 1.22 m (4 ft) x 1.22 m (4 ft) square.
k. Another design for the signal reference grid is to use the pedestals and stringers
for the raised floor, typically in a 2 ft. by 2 ft. grid and then have bonding of the
pedestals with a minimum 6 AWG copper conductor on alternating rows of
pedestals.
l. In cases where connection points on 2-foot centers are not needed, a ground
connection plate can be installed as shown in Fig. 6.2(a) Ground Connection
Plate in SRG.
70
m. In addition, the neutral terminal, such as the XO terminal on a wye-secondary
connected transformer of a separately derived system, or the neutral bus in the
panelboard located in the room with the electronic equipment should be
connected to the SRG and, as well as the grounding electrode system. The
grounding electrode system connection point many times is a grounding busbar,
as discussed in section 5.3 of this standard, installed in the room with the
sensitive electronic equipment for this purpose. The signal reference ground is
also connected to this busbar so there is a single point grounding reference for
the room and area. This applies to power distribution units (PDUs) that supply
information technology equipment in the vicinity of a SRG.
n. The SRG should be bonded to any nearby accessible building steel so as to
create many points of grounding/bonding. This is important to do along the
SRG’s perimeter and for any steel that penetrates the SRG’s surface. In
completing this bonding caution is advised to minimize creating ground loops
with the SRG, bonding conductors and building steel.
o. Listed electrical or electronic information technology equipment may provide
additional or special grounding/bonding requirements. Follow the manufacturer’s
installation instructions including the need for two bonding conductors of different
lengths.
p. When a metallic mesh is embedded in the structural concrete subfloor, it can be
used for an electronic signal reference grid.
q. The concrete floor embedded SRG is often combined with the steel reinforcing
bar system that is installed in the poured concrete. In some cases, where the
reinforcing steel system is welded together, it can serve as the actual SRG,
otherwise the reinforcing steel is simply periodically welded to the SRG at those
points where the two structures have nearby or intersecting elements.
71
6.3 Ground Current Interference with Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Based
Equipment
Low frequency magnetic fields, such as the power system’s 60 Hz and its
harmonics, will sometimes interfere with the electron beam being used to paint the
image on CRT screens. This magnetic field interference is observed as a wavy or
rippling display. This can be very evident if the CRT is backed up to the wall of the
electrical room with the power switchgear or switchboard on the opposite side of that
same wall. Below are a few measures that often solve the electromagnetic
interference problems:
a. Increasing the distance between the affected equipment and the source of the
interfering magnetic field and reorientation of the equipment in regard to the lines
of force of the magnetic field.
b. Increasing the number and location of any grounding/bonding connections
between grounded items. For instance, more bonding between cold water
piping, building steel, and grounding electrode conductors.
c. Metal shielding, mesh or solid, can be installed to cover the sides and gun of the
CRT.
d. Power cords supplying the CRT can be looped into a small coil and secured by
cable ties.
e. A common mode filter can be installed to minimize common mode noise in the
grounding circuit.
6.4 Networked Workstation Equipment
Workstations on a network need special attention concerning grounding so that

common-mode noise will not be a significant problem. Here are some suggestions:
a. Provide an externally applied supplementary equipment grounding conductor
network that is connected to each item of the workstation and to the “green wire”
of the branch circuit(s) serving the workstation.
b. If there is any excess length in the ac power cords or data cables used to
connect the work station, loop the excess into a small coil secured by cable ties
or suitable tape.
c. Observe bending radius limits of conductors.
Grounding of telecommunications systems, such as voice and data circuits, has
become a well-defined area. If good workmanship practices are not followed, the
systems will be more sensitive to noise disturbances. The proper installation of
telecommunications circuits is beyond the scope of this standard, but some helpful
references are provided in Annex A.
72
7. INSPECTIONS
7.1 Final Review and Inspection before Energizing
After the electrical installation is complete, a careful /review/inspection is needed to

ensure safety and performance criteria have all been met. Regarding grounding, the
following should be part of the inspection process:
a. Verify all conductors and connections before energizing the circuits.
Misidentification of conductors such as the grounded (neutral) and equipment
grounding conductors often occurs. Mistakes of this kind are a serious code
violation. Cross-connection between neutral and equipment grounding
conductors can result in unwanted current flow in the equipment grounding
system but will normally not cause an overcurrent protection device to operate.
b. All metallic raceway, wireways, cable trays and metallic enclosures, must be well
bonded along their length to ensure end to end continuity. Correct installation
with threaded fittings made up wrench tight and, screw terminals proper torqued
and lastly all wire terminal properly torqued with calibrated torqueing equipment.
c. They should also be well grounded at multiple points along their length to
building steel and SRGs within 6 feet to provide effective high frequency
grounding.
d. Any connection that is not a good electrical connection over the life of the
installation is potential trouble. Such a poor connection can be a cause of noise
or of a total interruption of the signal process or power continuity. Also, poor
connections can fail when called upon to carry ground fault current. Either the
connection is made properly, or it must be reworked to bring it within
specifications.
e. A common error is with grounding and bonding is terminating more than one,
sometimes many, equipment grounding conductors in a terminal only listed for a
single conductor of specified size range. Generally, one wire per terminal is a
best practice unless there are clear markings or instructions that allow for more
than one conductor. The lack of a marking means it is only suitable for one
conductor. The markings or instructions will specify both the number and
allowable size of conductors in a terminal when more than one is permitted.
7.2 Periodic Inspections and Maintenance
A good grounding system must receive periodic inspections and, if needed,

maintenance, to retain its effectiveness. Adequate design, professional choice of
materials, and proper installation techniques ensure that the grounding system
resists deterioration or inadvertent destruction. Minimal repair is then required to
73
retain effectiveness throughout the life of the structure. Part of periodic
maintenance of the grounding system may include:
a. Periodic ground resistance testing of the grounding electrode system. Good
practice is to do this on a sliding schedule, such as every 13 months, so
seasonal variations can be documented. In addition to the test result, the recent
weather and other conditions that can contribute to earth resistance should be
noted.
b. Verification of the adequacy of the equipment grounding system by low level
current injection and measuring impedance or insulation resistance using a
“megger” type tester. There are commercially available instruments that will plug
into a receptacle or connect to the end of a branch circuit and measure the
impedance. The results may identify loose or poor connections such as on wire
nuts or other terminals.
c. Measure the grounding continuity such as indicated in maintenance testing of
patient care space receptacles and equipment in Heath Care Facilities and found
in NFPA 99. There is similar type testing in the Mine Safety and Health
Administration (MSHA) for mine under MSHA oversight.
74
Figures without citations Ginger, we will not be using these figures in this edition of NECA
331. (remove)
Fig 4.1.5(a) Fig 4.1.5(j)
1
ANNEX A: REFERENCES
ANSI/IEEE C2 -2017 National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)

ANSI/IEEE Std. 81 Guide for Measuring Earth Resistivity, Ground Impedance
and Earth Surface Potentials of a Grounding System
ANSI/IEEE Std. 142 Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and
Commercial Power Systems
ANSI/IEEE Std. 1100 Recommended Practice for Power and Grounding
Sensitive Electronic Equipment
Published by IEEE
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.
445 Hoes Lane
Piscataway, NJ 08855-1331
(732) 981-0060 tel
(732) 981-1721 fax
www.ieee.org
ANSI/NECA 1-2015 National Electrical Installation Standard (NEIS);

Standard for Good Workmanship in Electrical Contracting
ANSI/NECA/BICSI 568-2006 National Electrical Installation Standard (NEIS);
Standard for Installing Commercial Building
Telecommunications Cabling
Published by NECA
National Electrical Contractors Association
3 Bethesda Metro Center, Suite 1100
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 215-4504 tel
(301) 215-4500 fax
[email protected]
ANSI/NFPA 70-2017 National Electrical Code® (NEC®)

Published by NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
One Batterymarch Park,
Quincy, MA 02269-9101
(800) 344-3555 tel
(617) 770-3305 fax
www.nfpa.org
1
ANSI/TIA/EIA Standard 568 Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling
Standard
ANSI/TIA/EIA Standard 569 Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications
Pathways and Spaces
ANSI/TIA/EIA Standard 570 Residential Telecommunications Cabling Standard
ANSI/T/E-J-STD-607 Commercial Building Grounding (Earthing) and Bonding
Requirements for Telecommunications
Published by TIA
Telecommunications Industry Association
2500 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300
Arlington, VA 22201-3834
(703) 907-7700 tel
(703) 907-7727 fax
www.tiaonline.org
The current editions of the above standards should be consulted.
Current National Electrical Installation Standards Published by NECA:
National Electrical Contractors Association

3 Bethesda Metro Center Ste 1100
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 657-3110 tel.
(301) 215-4500 fax
www.neca-neis.org
NECA 1-2015 Standard Practices for Good Workmanship in Electrical

Contracting (ANSI)
NECA 90-2004 Recommended Practice for Commissioning Building Electrical
Systems (ANSI)
NECA 100-2006 Symbols for Electrical Construction Drawings (ANSI)
NECA 101-2006 Standard for Installing Steel Conduits (Rigid, IMC, EMT)
NECA 102-2004 Standard for Installing Aluminum Rigid Metal Conduit (ANSI)
NECA/AA 104-2006 Recommended Practice for Installing Aluminum Building Wire and
Cable (ANSI)
2
NECA/NEMA 105-2007 Recommended Practice for Installing Metal Cable Tray Systems
(ANSI)
NECA 111-2003 Standard for Installing Nonmetallic Raceways (RNC, ENT, LFNC)
(ANSI)
NECA 120-2006 Standard for Installing Armored Clad (AC) and Metal-Clad Cable
(MC) (ANSI)
NECA 121-2007 Standard for Installing Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable (Type-NM-B)
and Underground Feeder and Branch-Circuit Cable (Type UF)
(ANSI)
NECA 200-2002 Recommended Practice for Installing and Maintaining Temporary
Power at Construction Sites (ANSI)
NECA 202-2006 Recommended Practice for Installing and Maintaining Industrial
Heat Tracing Systems (ANSI)
NECA 230-2003 Standard for Selecting, Installing, and Maintaining Electric Motors
and Motor Controllers (ANSI)
NECA/FOA 301-20xx Standard for Installing and Testing Fiber Optic Cables
NECA 303-2005 Installing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Systems (ANSI)
NECA 305-2001 Standard for Fire Alarm System Job Practices (ANSI)
NECA 331-2004 Standard for Building and Service Grounding and Bonding (ANSI)
NECA 400-2007 Standard for Installing and Maintaining Switchboards (ANSI)
NECA 402-2007 Standard for Installing and Maintaining Motor Control Centers
(ANSI)
NECA/EGSA 404-2007 Standard for Installing Generator Sets (ANSI)
NECA 405-2001 Recommended Practice for Installing and Commissioning
Interconnected Generation Systems (ANSI)
NECA 406-2003 Standard for Installing Residential Generator Sets (ANSI)
NECA 407-2009 Recommended Practice for Installing and Maintaining
Panelboards (ANSI)
NECA 408-2009 Standard for Installing and Maintaining Busways (ANSI)
NECA 409-2009 Standard for Installing and Maintaining Dry-Type Transformers
(ANSI)
NECA 410-2005 Standard for Installing and Maintaining Liquid-Filled Transformers
(ANSI)
3
NECA 411-2006 Standard for Installing and Maintaining Uninterruptable Power
Supplies (ANSI)
NECA 420-2007 Standard for Fuse Applications (ANSI)
NECA 430-2006 Standard for Installing Medium Voltage Metal-Clad Switchgear
(ANSI)
NECA/IESNA 500-2006 Standard for Installing Indoor Commercial Lighting Systems
(ANSI)
NECA/IESNA 501-2006 Standard for Installing Exterior Lighting Systems (ANSI)
NECA/IESNA 502-2006 Standard for Installing Industrial Lighting Systems (ANSI)
NECA 503-2005 Standard for Installing Fiber Optic Lighting Systems (ANSI)
NECA/BICSI 568-2006 Standard for Installing Commercial Building Telecommunications
Cabling (ANSI)
NECA 600-2003 Recommended Practice for Installing and Maintaining Medium-
Voltage Cable (ANSI)
NECA/NEMA 603-2005 Recommended Practice for Installing Underground Nonmetallic
Utility Duct (ANSI)
NECA 605-2005 Recommended Practice for Installing Underground Nonmetallic
Utility Duct (ANSI)

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National Electrical Installation Standard (NEIS)

Standard for Installing

Building and Service Entrance Grounding

Recirculation Ballot Draft

2. GROUNDING AND BONDING OVERVIEW ................................................................ 3

3. SERVICE ENTRANCE AND BUILDING GROUNDING..............................................13

4. BUILDING EXTERIOR GROUNDING ........................................................................34

5. BUILDING INTERIOR BONDING AND GROUNDING ..............................................47

6. BONDING AND GROUNDING OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS ...................................68

ANNEX A: REFERENCES ............................................................................................... A1

1.1 Equipment and Systems Included

The following are included in this publication:

1.2 Equipment and Systems Excluded

Lightning protection systems are specifically excluded from this publication.

1.3 Regulatory and Other Requirements

1.4 Mandatory Requirements, Permissive Requirements, Quality and

Mandatory Requirements. Mandatory requirements in manufacturer instructions,

2. GROUNDING and BONDING OVERVIEW

2.1 Planning and Execution of Project

[insert one photograph similar to these examples]

2.2 Grounding and Bonding Conductors Overview

Grounding and bonding systems serve three primary functions:

2.2.1 Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC)

The EGC is the electrically conductive path purposefully installed to connect

2.2.2 Installing Equipment Grounding Conductors

For best performance of the EGC function, all conductors of an electric

The grounding electrode conductor is the conductive path (conductor)

2.2.4 Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC) Size

a) The minimum size of the GEC is determined based on:

2.2.5 Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation Protection

Grounding electrode conductors shall be protected from physical damage

2.2.6 Repair or Splices in Grounding Electrode Conductors

Grounding electrode conductors can be damaged during construction where

Photo 2.2.6 Photo provided by NEMA

3. SERVICE ENTRANCE AND BUILDING GROUNDING

3.1 General Requirements

Fig 3.1(a) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

Fig 3.1(b) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

3.2 Grounding Electrodes

3.2.1 Metal Underground Water Pipe

Photo 3.2.1(d)(1) Photo provided by NEMA

3.2.2 Metal In Ground Support Structure Electrodes

a. If the metal in-ground support structure of the building qualifies as a

Fig 3.2.2(d)(1) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

Photo 3.2.2(d)(1) Photo provided by NEMA

3.2.3 Concrete-Encased Electrodes (Ufer Grounds)

The structural steel within the concrete foundation or footing is usually

Fig 3.2.3(a) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

Photo 3.2.3(a) Rebar Stub Up with GEC to Panelboard

g. Where the grounding electrode conductor is connected to a buried or

Fig 3.4(e) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

h. For welded connections, it is recommended to locate the weld away from

Fig 3.2.3(f) Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

Fig 3.2.4() Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

3.2.5 Rod, Pipe, or Plate Electrodes

5.1 Ground Rods

Fig 3.2.5(a)Illustration by ERICO Corporation International

5.2 Installing Ground Rods

e. The basic requirement is to install two rods, pipes or plates in any