Methods of Grounding Fixed Equipment

Noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment, if required to be grounded, must be grounded by an equipment grounding conductor that is contained within the same raceway, cable, or cord, or runs with or encloses the circuit conductors. Only in direct current circuits may the equipment grounding conductor run separately from the circuit conductors.

Electrical equipment is effectively grounded if it is secured to, and in electrical contact with, a metal rack or structure that is provided for its support; and the metal rack or structure is grounded by the method specified for the noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment.

Grounding of Systems and Circuits of 1,000 Volts and Over (High-Voltage)

If high-voltage systems are grounded, they must comply with all applicable grounding provisions previously discussed. Systems that supply portable or mobile high-voltage equipment, other than substations installed on a temporary basis, must also comply with a special set of requirements set out in 29 CFR 1926.404. All noncurrent-carrying metal parts of portable equipment and fixed equipment, including their associated fences, housings, enclosures, and supporting structures, must be grounded. Equipment guarded by location and isolated from the ground, as well as pole-mounted distribution apparatuses at more than eight feet above the ground or grade level, do not need to be grounded.

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