standards and guidelines for communication sites - Radio And ...

CHAPTER
5
INTERNAL GROUNDING (EARTHING) 5
This chapter provides requirements for grounding (earthing) communications site equipment
within a facility. The following topics are included:
• “Common Grounding (Earthing)” on page 5-3
• “Grounding (Earthing) System Components and Installation Requirements” on page 5-4
• “Connection Methods for Internal Grounding (Earthing) System” on page 5-31
• “Bonding Equipment to Internal Grounding (Earthing) System” on page 5-40
• “Grounding (Earthing) for Stand-alone Equipment Shelters” on page 5-54
• “Grounding (Earthing) for Small, Large, and Multi-Story Buildings” on page 5-58
• “Grounding (Earthing) for Dispatch Centers and Network Operator Positions” on page 5-62
• “Grounding (Earthing) for Integrated Communication Sites” on page 5-68
NOTE: Throughout this chapter the terms grounding and earthing are used synonymously.
5.1 INTRODUCTION
Proper bonding and grounding (earthing) of equipment is essential for personnel safety and
system reliability. Because of the increase in circuit density and the advent of lower-voltage
integrated circuit devices, communications systems equipment is now more vulnerable than ever
to damage resulting from lightning activity and power line anomalies. Inadequate or improper
equipment bonding and grounding can permit a difference of ground potential to exist between
system components, which may result in injury to personnel, system failure, and equipment
damage.
The requirements and guidelines in this chapter are derived from a compilation of local and
national codes, widely accepted industry codes and standards, and good engineering practices.
Such codes and standards are from, but not limited to, the following standards organizations:
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
• United States Department of Defense (DoD)
• United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• United States National Weather Service
References to the specific industry codes and standards on which this chapter is based are
provided throughout. The requirements and guidelines in this chapter are provided to enhance
personnel safety and equipment reliability.
68P81089E50-B 9/1/05 5-1