Encyclopedia of Grounding (CA09040E)

INDUSTRY STANDARDS

Standards are used widely in the utility industry. They cover a wide range of topics. For instance, performance specifications for products or com ponents used [6] , line construction methods and overhead line maintenance [2] . Other documents are presented as guides or general methods of equipmentusewithout specifyingaparticularwork method, but allow the utility the freedom to adapt themto individual situations. Consensus standards developed by agreement among an array of users, manufacturers, utility representatives and experi enced consultants are widely accepted and used. Some utilities have developed standards for their own use, patterned after consensus standards, but modified to meet their own particular needs. In the United States, compliance with standards is voluntary in most instances, other than govern mental regulations such as OSHA requirements. Themanufacturerofpersonal protectivegrounding equipment may choose which standard its prod uctsmeet and accordinglymarket them. However, the manufacturer may be required to meet all that applies due to the variations and requirements within its customer base. • American National Standards Institute (ANSI) • The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) • American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) • National Electrical Manufacturers Associ ation (NEMA). While other countries also may have their own national standards, the International Electrotech nical Commission (IEC) is the primary source of internationally accepted standards. IEC standards are also consensus standards, developed by knowledgeablerepresentatives fromeachmember country including theU.S. During recent years, the influence of IEC standards has increased, even in the U.S., as a result of treaties such as NAFTA. Themain authoringgroups of voluntary standards in the United States addressing utility needs are:

All consensus standards developed are published andwidely distributed. They are available for a fee from the sponsoring organization. They are con tinually reviewed and updated as industry needs and technology change. OSHA and National Electric Code standards are not voluntary. However, even these take input from consensus standards groups sponsored by various standards organizations because of the broad range of experience and knowledge of the representatives who develop them. Official gov ernmental regulations normally are open to public comment prior to the issuing of rulings which are then printed in the Federal Register. The Reference section of this publication contains a partial list of standards that control the manu facture, selection and use of protective grounding equipment. References to these standards will be made throughout this publication.

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ENCYCLOPEDIA OF GROUNDING