Code Q&A

May 21, 2009

Q. What are the requirements for grounding metal equipment racks supporting computer servers?

A. The Code requires 'bonding' not 'grounding' as follows: All exposed metal parts of an information technology system must be bonded to the equipment grounding conductor [645.15]. This 'bonding' requirement is accomplished when the metal equipment rack is secured and in direct electrical contact with the metal case of the servers, which are connected to an equipment grounding conductor as per 250.134 [250.136(A)].

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.