Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

Should a metal fence be connected to a ground rod according to NEC standards?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only during storms

4. Only if it's required by the homeowner

The correct answer is: Yes

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards, it is indeed required that a metal fence be connected to a ground rod. This requirement is primarily for safety reasons; grounding the metal fence helps to ensure that any electrical fault current that might energize the fence is safely redirected to the ground, reducing the risk of electric shock to individuals who may come into contact with the fence. The connection to a ground rod is especially important in areas where the fence could be subject to lightning strikes or where the fence may serve as a barrier to animals that could be involved in electrical safety incidents. Additionally, adhering to this standard promotes consistency in electrical safety practices, ensuring that all metal structures are properly grounded to prevent dangerous situations. Other choices suggest either no requirement or conditional requirements that do not align with NEC guidelines. Therefore, the definitive guideline that mandates the grounding of metal fences under NEC standards reinforces the safety of both the structure and its users.