• Code Q&A

    I have a building that has two services from the utility. Do I have to use the same grounding system for both?
    June 5, 2008

    Q. I have a building that has two services from the utility. Do I have to use the same grounding system for both?

    A. Yes [250.58]. A concrete-encased electrode can be used as a common electrode [250.52(3)] for multiple services. The metal frame of a building connected to earth [250.52(A)(2)] is another method used to connect multiple services to a common electrode.

    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.

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