Ground Fault

Category: science

An accidental electrical connection between an active hot conductor and an uninsulated metal component or grounding wire.

A ground fault creates a low-resistance path that causes a sudden, massive spike in electrical current. If the system incorporates a low-impedance grounding electrode loop and a correct main bonding jumper, this current spike will instantly trip the circuit breaker, cutting power before shock can occur.

Common Examples

• A pinched hot wire inside the metal junction box caused a continuous ground fault, instantly tripping the upstream breaker switch.
• Deploying a GFCI breaker catches low-level ground fault leaks down to the milliamp layer, shutting off power before an executive can be shocked.