Bonding and Grounding

How are you managing static electricity?

Bonding and grounding remove stray currents and static electricity, which are potential ignition sources when a flammable atmosphere is present.

Bonding is the equalizing of electric potential between two objects. It is achieved by joining metallic parts to form a path that ensures the safe conduction of any electrical current.
Grounding is connecting a conductive object to ground (the earth or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth), so the object is at zero electrical potential.

Loading or unloading of flammable materials, such as crude oil or liquid petroleum gas
Using vacuum trucks
Using pressure washers and steamers during tank and vessel cleaning
Abrasive blasting
Using centrifuges on drilling rigs

Ensure a fire and explosion hazard management plan is in place for your work site; it should identify potential flammable hydrocarbons and ignition sources, and controls such as bonding and grounding
Consider using a multi-meter to take ohm measurements in areas such as:
- Bonding clamp to the vehicle frame
- Bonding clamp to the grounding rod when affixed
Ensure the metal components that contact multi-meter pins are free of paint, rust and residue
If a flammable atmosphere could exist, make measurements with an intrinsically safe meter or under a hot work permit and associated controls
Designate an acceptable Ohm (Ω) criterion for your equipment and repair or remove from service any deficient equipment

Understand the use and limitations of bonding and grounding equipment
Ensure an adequate bond exists when materials are transferred or moved
Never use or add unbonded components to equipment, such as adding a plastic extender (stinger) to the nozzle of pressure washers or using unbonded hose
Before use, inspect the bonding cable and reel, especially the reel’s attachment points to the vehicle frame and the cable’s attachment point to the clamp
Repair or remove from service any deficient equipment