How often should grounding systems be inspected?

Grounding systems should be inspected after severe weather events to ensure their integrity and functionality. Severe weather can cause physical damage to grounding components, such as corrosion, impact, or dislodgement, which may compromise their effectiveness. Inspecting grounding systems following such events helps to identify any potential issues early on, allowing for timely repairs and maintenance that are crucial for safety and equipment protection.

While annual inspections and periodic evaluations every five years are good practices for general maintenance, they do not account for unexpected damage that may occur during extreme weather. Inspections solely upon installation do not provide assurance about the ongoing safety and reliability of the grounding system as environmental factors can lead to deterioration over time. Therefore, prioritizing inspections after severe weather ensures that grounding systems remain secure and operational in protecting against electrical faults.