Grounding grates are important pieces of equipment because they protect workers from electrical shock and electrocution, which can be fatal if not treated immediately. But to help you understand why grounding grates are so important, we’ll first need to cover some basics about electricity and how it works in the workplace, as well as the various types of grounding grates that are used in commercial and industrial settings around the world.
Grounding grates provide an important safety barrier between your electrical system and the ground. These safety devices help prevent the spread of electric current through the ground and into the surrounding environment, reducing the risk of electrocution and fire hazards.
However, not all grounding grates are created equal – some are designed to protect a larger area, while others can hold more weight or will last longer.
This guide walks you through how to choose the right grounding grate so that you know you’re using an effective device that will keep you safe!
Also Read: 7+ Reasons Site Safety is important for Project Owners
What is an EPZ grounding grate system?
One of the most important aspects of electrical safety is grounding. Grounding protects you from electrical shock by providing a path for current to flow away from you if there is a break in the circuit.
If you are working with electricity, it is essential to have a good understanding of grounding and how to properly ground yourself and your equipment.
There are several different types of grounding techniques, and the best one for you will depend on the specific situation.
EPZ grounding is a system used in construction sites to ensure that all workers are properly grounded. This system includes a network of ground rods, electrical panels, and grounding plates. Grounding plates are placed at strategic points around the construction site, and workers are required to connect their grounding cables to these plates.
The purpose of this system is to prevent electrical shocks by providing a safe path for electricity to flow in case of a power outage or other accident.
EPZ grounding or Equipotential grounding is defined as an area in which any two points on a worker’s body have an equal electrical potential. In simpler terms, equipotential grounding zones mean all points on a worker’s body have the same electric potential.
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Dangers of alternate solution
Numerous contractors, who fail to appreciate the risk these improvised systems present, choose to offer chain-link fencing, wiring, or other alternate solutions when they should be in fact be addressing their concerns.
Furthermore, as they are not designed to be walked on or used with heavy machinery, they can deform or break under pressure. This can lead to trips and falls in addition to potential gaps in the already poor protection they provide against high voltage.
Using timber or composite flooring is an increasingly common strategy, and this will cause more harm than good because these floors are not strong and won’t last over time. While it is not like having a quality EPZ grounding system, they will offer some protection against electrical shocks and dangerous contacts with the ground.
What is the use of an EPZ grounding mat?
The SAFESTEP EPZ Grounding Grate is a galvanized steel grounding mat. You first lay it down, then bond it together with 4/0 copper cables and 2-hole lug connectors. This creates an equipotential zone for transformer sites and portable substations.
Why EPZ grating is best for construction environment?
The EPZ Grounding Grate is a galvanized steel, one-piece grate which serves to protect construction crews from higher grade, transient fault currents in their work zone.
EPZ Grounding Grates are placed on the ground and are then bonded together with 4/o copper cables and 2-hole lug connectors to create an equipotential zone, in which the terminal points can be measured at puller/tensioner sites and at portable substations.
The lug holes in EPZ Grounding Grates are for attaching grounding cables to the grates and for stringing between points of attachment. Our grates are quick to install and can be assembled and removed quickly.
Benefits of using grounding grates
- There are many benefits to using grounding grates, including that they are reusable, quick to assemble, and have a lower installation cost.
- Plus, grounding cables are also long lasting, which can save you money in the long run.
- When choosing a grounding grate, it is important to consider the size of the project and the type of work. For smaller projects, you may want to choose a less expensive option. But for larger projects, it is worth investing in a more durable product.
Courtesy Of Yak Mat
