Ground Fault Protection
Performance Testing

What Is A Ground Fault?

A ground fault is any short circuit that produces an accidental connection between an energized ungrounded phase conductor and ground.

Why Have Ground Fault Protection?

• A ground fault can destroy switchgear in seconds, before the main service overcurrent protection will operate.
• It is meant to protect property and personnel from hazard.

Why Test Ground Fault Systems?

• It is required by the NEC, National Electric Code, in sections 230-95 (c) and 517-17 (c).
• “Ground-fault protection of equipment shall be provided for solidly grounded wye electric services of more than 150 volts to ground but not exceeding 600 volts phase-to-phase for each service disconnect rated 1,000 amperes or more.”
• The code states, “the ground-fault protection system shall be performance tested when first installed on site. The test shall be conducted in accordance with instructions that shall be provided with the equipment. A written record of this test shall be made and shall be available to the authority having jurisdiction.”

PCX can provide ground fault testing. The ground fault protection system shall be performance tested when first installed in accordance with NEC Article 230.95. The test shall be conducted in accordance with instructions that shall be provided with the equipment. A written record of this test shall be generated and made available to the authority having jurisdiction.