Safer and Smarter Systems

The merits of high-resistance grounding (HRG), its design considerations, and potential safety issues have been well documented in past electrical safety workshops. At the 2008 IEEE Electrical Safety Workshop, a challenge was put forth to discuss current and developing technologies that can resolve some of the potential safety issues in HRG systems. A field survey was conducted, and research was performed to identify these issues. This article discusses each potential safety issue and cross references it with current or developing technology to assist the user during the design, operation, and maintenance stages of an HRG system. These technological advancements have the ability to resolve potential safety issues, establishing a safer, smarter HRG system.