What is grounding and bonding?

Grounding and bonding are two related but distinct electrical safety measures required by the National Electrical Code (NEC). Grounding establishes a conductive path from electrical equipment to the earth, allowing dangerous electrical current to safely dissipate if a fault occurs. Bonding connects conductive surfaces (metal pipes, structural steel, equipment frames) together and to the grounding system, ensuring they all operate at the same electrical potential.

Grounding protects people from electrocution. If a hot wire makes unintended contact with a metal equipment case or pipe, a ground fault can flow harmlessly into the earth instead of through a person touching that surface. Bonding prevents dangerous voltage differences between metal objects in a home or building. Two metal surfaces at different potentials can deliver a fatal shock if a person bridges them. By bonding all conductive materials together, these potential differences are eliminated.

Both systems are required in residential and commercial installations. The grounding electrode (typically a copper rod driven into soil) provides the earth connection, while bonding straps and conductors ensure every conductive surface is electrically connected. The NEC specifies the size, material, and installation method for both grounding and bonding conductors. An electrician must verify that grounding and bonding meet current code requirements to protect inhabitants from shock hazards and reduce fire risk from electrical faults. Residential electricians in Spartanburg conduct grounding and bonding as part of initial installations and upgrades.