A Guide to Types of Grounding Systems for Industrial Safety

Grounding systems are a cornerstone of industrial safety, ensuring the prevention of hazardous events caused by static electricity or electrical faults. In this article, we will explore the types of grounding systems, how they function, the certifications they follow, and their applications across industries.

On this page:

• What Is a Grounding System?
• Types of Grounding Systems
  • Fixed Grounding Systems
  • Mobile Grounding Systems
  • Grounding Systems for FIBCs
• Certifications and Rules for Grounding Systems
• Applications of Grounding Systems

What Is a Grounding System?

The most common experience of static electricity is the crackling sound and clinging of fabrics as they are removed from clothes dryer or electric shock felt when touching a metal object after walking across a carpeted area or stepping out of an automobile. To most people, static electricity is simple an annoyance. However, in many industries like in Oil & Gas where combustible materials are handled, static electricity can cause fires or explosions. 

A grounding system connects electrical devices or structures to the earth, by providing a path for electric currents to flow safely in case of faults or static charge accumulation. This prevents electrical hazards (Fire & Explosion), protects equipment, and ensures the safety of personnel in potentially explosive or hazardous environments.

Grounding systems typically consist of monitoring devices, cables, and clamps designed to maintain a secure connection to the earth. They are essential in industries where flammable substances or static-prone materials are handled, such as fuel depots, chemical plants, and warehouses.

Types of Grounding Systems

Grounding systems come in various configurations tailored for specific needs and safety requirements. Following are the main types:

Fixed Grounding Systems

• Used in static installations such as loading bays for tank trucks, rail tankers, IBCs, and drums.
• Operates in Resistive Loop Mode, which ensures the resistance between the equipment and ground remains below 10 Ω.

Mobile Grounding Systems

• Designed for vehicles like road tankers and vacuum trucks.
• Installed on the vehicle itself, providing independent grounding during operations.
• Features similar resistive monitoring as fixed systems.

Grounding Systems for FIBCs (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers)

• Specialized for handling powders and granulates during filling and emptying operations.
• Operates with a higher resistance threshold of up to 10 MΩ to meet FIBC-specific standards.

Available accessories

• Coiled Cable with two clamps
• Coiled Cable with one clamp
• Cable reel with cable & clamp
• Tester

Need help choosing the right grounding system for your industry? Contact us today to get expert advice and ensure compliance with safety standards!

Certifications and Rules for Grounding Systems

Grounding systems must comply with strict industry standards to ensure their reliability and safety. Key certifications and standards include:

• IEC 60079-32: guidance on electrostatic hazards for explosive atmospheres.
• NFPA 77: recommended practices for static electricity control.
• ATEX directive 2014/34/EU: European certification for equipment in potentially explosive environments.
• IEC 61508: functional safety of electrical and electronic systems, supporting SIL2 (Safety Integrity Level 2).

These certifications ensure that grounding systems function reliably in hazardous conditions, reducing the risk of ignition or accidents.

Applications of a Grounding Systems

Grounding systems play a critical role in several industries and scenarios:

1. Fuel loading and unloading — Prevents static build-up during the transfer of fuels into tankers or storage tanks.
2. Chemical processing plants — Protects against ignition risks when handling flammable chemicals.
3. Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) — Ensures safe handling of powders and granulates in industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and construction.
4. Transport and logistics — Ensures mobile equipment like road tankers and vacuum trucks remain grounded during operations.
5. Warehousing — Protects workers and equipment from static discharges during the storage and handling of flammable materials.

Grounding systems are indispensable for maintaining safety and operational efficiency in hazardous environments. By understanding their types, certifications, and applications, businesses can ensure compliance and mitigate risks effectively.

Ready to enhance safety in your operations? Explore our range of certified grounding systems and secure your workplace today!