Code Q&A

Jan. 24, 2008

When PVC conduit is used, does the Code require an equipment grounding conductor between the meter enclosure and the service disconnect?

Mike Holt

Q. When PVC conduit is used, does the Code require an equipment grounding conductor between the meter enclosure and the service disconnect?

A. No, the neutral conductor can be used as the circuit equipment grounding conductor for metal parts of equipment, raceways, and enclosures at service equipment [250.92(B)(1), 250.142(A)(1), 352.60 Ex 2]. This is because the service neutral conductor provides the effective ground-fault current path to the power supply to ensure that dangerous voltage from a ground fault will be quickly removed by opening the overcurrent device [250.4(A)(3) and 250.4(A)(5)].

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.