Earthing-grounding methods: a primer

Grounding and its design is a complex subject encompassing personnel safety, lightning or static protection, electrical power system earthing and computer system grounding. One must define the purpose to be achieved, as each system may accomplish the objective by different means. The paper lists and defines the more common earthing-grounding terms. A brief history of early attempts at grounding electrical and computer systems is covered. The paper answers the questions of why and how an electrical connection is made to earth. It details the methods of connecting the various types of electrical systems to earth. Personal safety with respect to electricity is covered. Misconceptions concerning grounding and earthing are disclosed.