PME and Earth Rods

[rasell]

Is It OK to have both?

Some people seem to say it can create a dangerous PD, but is that right? If you have earth bonding thats not that different to an earth rod, as the pipes go through the earth.

I think I read somewhere in the regs or somewhere that an earth rod can be considered as a backup in the case of a PEN fault, otherwise all earthing could become live and you could even get feedback from other properties!

Regards

Marc

 

[JulesHurley]

I am strong believer that there should only be one earthing point.

If you have PME, the supplier has taken responsiblity for the provision of a satisfactory earth point. Almost every joint of an underground cable has an earthing tail, and every second post has a PME spike.

It was explained to me by an inspector for the HV boys, if you used a earth rod and PME, you are in fact providing another earthing point for the whole grid.

Not that it happens every day, but if the pole outside gets hits by lighting, that energy may decide to earth via your house.

 

[L&B Electrics]

lol jules

 

[rasell]

I am strong believer that there should only be one earthing point.

If you have PME, the supplier has taken responsiblity for the provision of a satisfactory earth point. Almost every joint of an underground cable has an earthing tail, and every second post has a PME spike.

It was explained to me by an inspector for the HV boys, if you used a earth rod and PME, you are in fact providing another earthing point for the whole grid.

Not that it happens every day, but if the pole outside gets hits by lighting, that energy may decide to earth via your house.

Perhaps an earth rod with a surge protector built in

Marc