Covid-19 has resulted in a world-wide bonding crisis as people are required to isolate from each other in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Our inherent need to bond and connect with one another gives us a sense of grounding within our family and circle of friends. Bonding helps us to feel grounded. In fact, this is something an electrician can relate to.
Did you know that a lack of electrical bonding is a big concern in the world of electrical safety?
Electrical bonding is an Electrical Code requirement for every electrical installation. Bonding goes hand-in-hand with electrical grounding, a topic you may recall from a previous blog post. Now, since grounding and bonding are partners, so to speak, they are not exactly the same thing although the purpose of each is to reduce the risk of electrical shock to people. Where grounding's purpose is to capture an electrical fault in the electrical system and send it to ground, bonding refers to a method of connecting two or more conductive materials, not designed to carry electricity, to establish a conductive path between them. Thus, the purpose of bonding is to reduce the voltage of inadvertently energized metals. As well as create an electrical pathway for the unintended electrical current to reach the grounding system.
Where is Bonding required?
A copper wire connection requires installation between the conductive materials that will send any potential stray current to the main ground at the electrical panel. This task requires specific knowledge to ensure the establishment of a proper bond, which armatures often overlook. The wire must remain clearly visible so that periodic assessment is possible.
If you alter any part of the bonding system, such as replacing plumbing pipes with PVC piping, then the electrical bond must be re-established on any remaining conductive materials in the structure. This is to ensure the protective bond is always in place.
Some Items that require Bonding
Structural steel such as used in roofing.
Metal Framing.
Swimming pool rebar and ladders.
Lighting encasements.
Copper plumbing pipes.
Part of every electrical inspection should include a visual assessment of the electrical bonding system. This will ensure that it is still correctly in place and protecting the structure.