Grounding and bonding wrapper
Why you care (60 seconds)
Grounding and bonding choices drive fault clearing, touch voltage, and how inspectors verify safe installations. Mistakes here are safety-critical.
Where people lose time
- Mixing up equipment grounding versus grounding electrode functions.
- Assuming one conductor does every job in the system.
- Forgetting that product instructions can add constraints.
This is
The rule in plain language
A system-level approach to intentional connections that stabilize voltage and create a low-impedance fault path.
When it applies
Any time equipment is connected to a system that requires grounding or bonding, including service equipment and separately derived systems.
What you must do (checklist)
- Identify the grounding electrode system components.
- Confirm the equipment bonding path is continuous and sized.
- Verify terminations follow equipment instructions.
Quick examples
- Connect electrodes in the required configuration before you size the conductor.
- Check bonding jumpers before closing up service equipment.
This is not
Common misreads
- Treating bonding jumpers as optional if equipment has a metal enclosure.
- Assuming a grounded conductor can replace an equipment grounding conductor.
What it doesn't cover
- The full sizing tables for all grounding conductors.
- Project-specific grounding details for sensitive equipment.
False friends
- Confusing grounding electrode conductors with equipment grounding conductors.
Exceptions & edge cases
- Some systems have special grounding rules that override general practice.
- Product instructions can tighten how bonding is done at terminals.
Cross-references (NEC map)
- Primary: 250.4(A)(5), 250.50
- Secondary: 110.3(B)
Exam traps
- Selecting a conductor type that solves one purpose but ignores the other.
- Overlooking equipment instructions when a rule allows multiple options.
Field notes
- Label bonding points during layout to avoid missing hidden connections.
- Photograph electrode connections for inspection documentation.
AHJ / Local amendments notes (placeholder)
- Add local amendments or interpretations here.
Revision notes
- Draft wrapper created for grounding and bonding fundamentals.