A bare conductor can be used for a grounding electrode conductor where it is installed between a service panel and a steel beam that is part of the building structure.

A bare conductor can be used for a grounding electrode conductor where it is installed between a service panel and a steel beam that is part of the building structure.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on location
• D. Only when insulated

Answer: (A)

The path from the service panel to the building’s structural steel can be part of the grounding electrode system, and the grounding electrode conductor (GEC) may be bare. Structural steel that is bonded to the electrical system serves as a grounding path to earth, so running a bare conductor between the service panel and that steel member, and properly bonding to both, is permitted. The key is maintaining a continuous, well-bonded path and using listed clamps or connectors to attach to the steel; insulation is not required for this GEC route unless the installation demands protection from damage or corrosion in a specific location. This is why a bare GEC along a bonded steel beam is acceptable.

The path from the service panel to the building’s structural steel can be part of the grounding electrode system, and the grounding electrode conductor (GEC) may be bare. Structural steel that is bonded to the electrical system serves as a grounding path to earth, so running a bare conductor between the service panel and that steel member, and properly bonding to both, is permitted. The key is maintaining a continuous, well-bonded path and using listed clamps or connectors to attach to the steel; insulation is not required for this GEC route unless the installation demands protection from damage or corrosion in a specific location. This is why a bare GEC along a bonded steel beam is acceptable.