Are split bolt connections allowed for grounding connections?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in certain installations
• D. Not specified

Answer: (B)

Grounding paths must be a durable, low-impedance route that stays secure in outdoor, vibration-prone environments. Split-bolt connections don’t meet that requirement, so they aren’t allowed for grounding connections. They can loosen over time, corrode in weather, or fail to maintain a reliable contact, which increases impedance or breaks the ground path exactly when safety and equipment protection depend on it. Instead, use hardware that is specifically listed and rated for grounding—proper clamps, lugs, or crimp/compression connectors designed for grounding conductors—and torque them to spec to ensure a continuous, robust connection back to the grounding electrode system.