What are the grounding conductor protection requirements?

• A. Protected for at least 3 ft above grade; metallic protection bonded; fasteners every 12 ft
• B. Protected for at least 6 ft above grade; metallic protection bonded; fasteners no more than 3 ft apart
• C. Protected only at grade; metallic protection optional
• D. No protection required

Answer: (B)

Grounding conductors must be physically protected from damage where they are exposed, especially the portion above grade, to keep the grounding path intact. The requirement is to protect the conductor for at least six feet above grade with metallic protection that is bonded to the grounding system, and to secure that protection with fasteners no more than three feet apart. This combination ensures the protective covering remains continuous and bonded, reducing the risk of damage that could break the ground path and compromise safety and equipment protection. If protection is only at grade, or if the protection isn’t bonded, or if fasteners are spaced farther apart, the conductor could be damaged or lose its protective continuity, undermining the effectiveness of the grounding system.