What is the purpose of personal protective grounds (EPZ) in substations?

The purpose of personal protective grounds (EPZ) in substations is to ensure safety by keeping workers safe from electrical hazards. When maintenance or repair work is conducted on electric equipment, it is crucial to minimize the risk of electrical shock and create a safe working environment. Personal protective grounds achieve this by providing a low-resistance path to ground, reducing potential differences that can arise during faults and ensuring any stray currents are safely diverted away from workers.

By implementing EPZ effectively, the risks associated with accidental energization of equipment and the potential for electric shock are significantly mitigated. This makes it safe for personnel working in and around energized equipment, allowing them to focus on their tasks without the constant threat of electrical incidents. In the context of substation operations, maintaining a close and accessible grounding system is integral to ensuring worker safety.