Ice Bridge Grounding: The bridge should be bonded to each support post using which gauge?

• A. #4 AWG
• B. #6 AWG
• C. #2 AWG
• D. #8 AWG

Answer: (B)

Bonding the ice bridge to each support post creates a single, low-impedance path to ground, keeping the entire structure at the same electrical potential and reducing the risk of dangerous voltage differences during faults or lightning events. The bonding conductor needs to be large enough to carry fault current long enough for protection to operate and to withstand outdoor conditions. In this scenario, #6 AWG copper is the standard minimum for bonding outdoor metal structures, providing reliable conductivity and durability without unnecessary bulk. A smaller size like #8 AWG could be inadequate for a robust fault path, while larger gauges such as #4 or #2 AWG offer more than needed and add cost and rigidity.