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Interpretation #5767

Original Request

  • Date: July 06, 2008
  • Requested By: Anthony keel
  • Requester E-Mail: aek390@cox.net
  • Code Version: 2004
  • Code: ELECTRIC
  • Code Description: Electrical
  • Chapter: 2
  • Section: 250.52
  • Topic: Grounding electrode

  • Question: Is it the intent of the 2005 NEC article 250 section 250.52 paragraph 3 to allow the following as a concrete encased electrode. A stick of rusty 1/2 inch rebar fashioned in the shape of the letter L with the vertical end protruding from the concrete far enough to attach a grounding clamp; and the horizontal component the minimum length required for rebar lap and tied to the footer steel with tie wire.

Answer on 07/06/2008 at 11:12 AM

No. It is not within the scope of the NEC to permit or
prohibit the installation, configuration, or location of
the reinforcing rods used in the structure. It is actually
the intent of the NEC to place the Grouding Electrode
Conductor (GEC) into the footing and make the connection
to the structural steel in the footing.

Commentary:

The NEC identifies when and how reinforcing rods can be used as a grounding electrode. The issue of rebar being brought out of the footing and exposed is a matter left to the building code. The term �structural reinforcing bars� as used in section 250.52(A)(3) includes any material that conforms to Section 1903.5 of the 2004 Florida Building Code. Rebar must also comply with ACI 318.