Is proper application and installation of personal protective grounds important for lineworkers?

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Proper application and installation of personal protective grounds is essential because it creates a safe, controlled path for electrical current, preventing the worker from becoming a shock or arc-flash hazard when near or on lines. Even when a line is believed to be de-energized, stored energy, backfeed, or capacitive coupling can leave voltage present. Protective grounds tie the worker and their tools to a known ground reference, so any fault current is diverted away from the body rather than through it.

To do this correctly, use the right grounding equipment for the voltage, apply and connect all grounds cleanly and in the proper sequence, ensure tight, clean connections, and test the circuit to verify zero voltage before starting work. Remove the grounds only after the energy source has been confirmed de-energized and work is complete.

Without proper grounding, the risk of electric shock, burns, or arc-flash injuries increases significantly, so this practice is a mandatory safety measure for lineworkers on all lines.