National Electrical Code

Code Q&A

Dec. 22, 2004

Q. I heard that the Code only permits one equipment grounding (bonding) conductor to terminate on a grounding block screw terminal. Is this true? A. No. The number of equipment grounding (bonding) conductors permitted to terminate on a grounding ...

Mike Holt

Q. I heard that the Code only permits one equipment grounding (bonding) conductor to terminate on a grounding block screw terminal. Is this true?

A. No. The number of equipment grounding (bonding) conductors permitted to terminate on a grounding terminal is limited in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions [110.3(B)] posted on the label located inside the panelboard. However, two and sometimes three equipment grounding (bonding) conductors can generally be terminated to a single terminal. But be careful, because only one grounded (neutral) conductor is permitted on a single terminal (408.21).

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.