What distinction exists between grounding electrodes and equipment grounding conductors?

Grounding electrodes and equipment grounding conductors serve distinct functions in grounding and bonding systems, which is critical for safety in electrical installations. Grounding electrodes are components that connect an electrical system to the earth, providing a path for fault current to dissipate safely into the ground. This connection helps stabilize the voltage levels within the electrical system and protects against surges and lightning strikes.

On the other hand, equipment grounding conductors are used to connect individual pieces of electrical equipment to the grounding electrode system. Their primary role is to ensure that metal parts of the equipment that can become energized during a fault condition are safely grounded, minimizing the risk of electric shock to persons and protecting equipment from damage.

This distinction underscores the importance of both components in a comprehensive grounding strategy: grounding electrodes establish a direct link to the earth, while equipment grounding conductors ensure that equipment is properly connected to that grounding system for safety and functionality.