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Protective earthing requirements
The works of an electrical entity must incorporate an earthing and protection system.
This system must meet a recognised electricity supply industry standard.
It must allow:
- reliable passage of fault current;
- reliable passage of single wire earth return load currents to ground or source;
- reliable operation of circuit protection devices;
- safe step, touch and transfer potentials for all electrical equipment;
- appropriate coordination with the earthing and protection of systems of other electricity entities;
- protection against likely mechanical damage, inadvertent interference and chemical deterioration; and
- mechanical stability and integrity of connections.
The Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 (PDF, 1 MB) also sets further specific requirements for the works of an electricity entity, to further minimise the likelihood of electric shock.
- If the multiple earthed neutral (MEN) system of earthing is used:
- the neutral conductor must be effectively earthed; and
- each non-current carrying exposed conductive part of the electric line or generating plant must be effectively earthed.
- Earthing systems must be tested as soon as possible after installation to prove effectiveness.
- High voltage electric lines must be protected by a suitable fuse, circuit-breaker or similar device.
Refer to the code for further details on protective earthing, including earthing conductors and prospective touch and step voltages.
Last updated July 15, 2005
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