Safe Work Practices > Electrical, Static Hazards & Overhead Clearances > Ground Testing & Repairs to Ground Systems

Equipment that is not adequately grounded can result in electrocution, fires, explosions, etc., charges cannot be dissipated properly from equipment. To test for and ensure proper equipment grounding, consider the following procedure:

•Test ground for any possible current. If there is any current, shut down suspect equipment, lock out and repair as required.

•Re-energize and re-test for current across ground.

•If there is no current, proceed with ground rod testing.

•If current still exists, use hot gloves to test and trace current back to source.

•Grounds should only be removed after AC source has been disconnected.

•When used outdoors or in a wet or damp location, portable electrical equipment shall be protected by an approved CSA certified ground fault circuit interrupter.