What is an acceptable method to verify the continuity of a grounding system?

The method of measuring resistance to ground using a ground resistance tester is widely accepted for verifying the continuity of a grounding system. This approach specifically assesses the effectiveness of the grounding system by quantifying the resistance offered by the ground path. A low resistance value indicates a good connection to the earth, which is crucial for ensuring safety and functionality in the electrical system.

Ground resistance testers are designed to pass a known current through the grounding system and measure the resulting voltage drop. This allows for accurate calculation of the resistance, ensuring that the grounding system will adequately dissipate fault currents and protect against electrical shock hazards.

In contrast, other methods may not provide the same level of assurance regarding continuity. For instance, using a multimeter to check voltage does not directly assess the continuity between grounding conductors or their connection to the ground. Visual inspections can identify obvious issues but cannot guarantee that the grounding system will perform effectively under fault conditions. Similarly, performing a continuity check with a wire may ensure that a path exists, but it does not measure the effective resistance that would impact the system's performance during an electrical fault. Thus, measuring resistance to ground with a ground resistance tester is the most reliable method for this purpose.