Ground Fault Protection (Part 1)
It is easy to become complacent and forget that we handle nothing less than “bottled lightning.” Grounding, bonding, and the creation of an effective ground fault current path is the backbone of electrical safety and shock prevention in portal power distribution systems. Where the characteristic impedance of generators is significantly higher than that of grid transformers, Portal Power Distribution Technicians must know how to manipulate ground impedance to ensure a safe set. Through case studies, demonstrations, and “hands-on” class exercises, this introductory workshop will teach you how to keep the lightning in the bottle and make it safe to work with hundreds of thousands of watts of power.
What is a Ground Fault
Overview: 5 Ways of guarding against electrical hazards
Isolation
Insulation
Overcurrent Protection Devices
Grounding & Bonding
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
What determines the severity of a shock
Reducing the severity of a shock (PPE) and best practices
Overcurrent Protection Devices
Earth not an effective fault current path
Impedance of a fault current path.
Safe metering practices
What is Bonding
Effective Ground Fault Current Path
Calculating Short Circuit Current
Available Short Circuit Current (ASCC)
Equipment Short Circuit Current Ratings (SCCR)
NEC Article 110.10, Circuit Impedance, Short Circuit Current Ratings, and Other Characteristics
Compromised Equipment Grounding Conductors (EGC)
Portable Power vs. Temporary Power
Ohm’s Law and the Science of Bonding
Sources of Impedance
Isolating Ground Faults
Isolating Resistance in Energized Circuits
Isolating Resistance in Unenergized Circuits
Checking for sufficient Available Short Circuit Current (ASCC)
Details
Language: English
Format: In-person, Virtual
Length: 16 hours
Trainer
Guy Holt, IATSE Local 481
Location: Boston, MA
Guy Holt is a 28-year veteran of IATSE Local 481 and author of over twenty articles for Protocol magazine on power generation, quality, and distribution in motion picture production. Guy has served as Gaffer, Rigging Gaffer, and Generator Operator on numerous film and television productions.