Needs of Management of the Grounding Systems

This paper suggests an advanced approach in the verification of the adequacy of a grounding system (GS) located in a common zone of influence with other GSs, taking into account the mutual interferences between the GSs. In fact, the presence of other GSs can transfer inadmissible touch and step voltages on the testing GS, particularly sensitive for critical power systems as data centers and hospitals. The safety of a local GS or of a global GS (GGS) does not admit uncontrolled interferences. Simulation programs assume a relevant importance, because they allow analyzing the interferences of GSs, particularly in operational difficulties for the tests. GSs have to maintain within the installation lifetime their characteristics of integrity and continuity and their safety performances; hence, they require a management program. This paper highlights the relevance of intrinsically safe GSs that guarantee safe touch/step voltages lower than permissible permanent voltages such as GGSs. GSs in city centers and urban and industrial areas evolve in time. Each installation of a new GS can influence the performance of the GSs existent in the area. Inspections and measurements are also necessary, following variations that can influence essential requirements.