Where should equipment grounding conductors generally be installed?

The appropriate installation of equipment grounding conductors is crucial for ensuring safety and proper functioning within electrical systems. Grounding conductors are intended to provide a path for electrical fault currents to safely dissipate into the ground. Installing them in the same raceway, cable, or trench as the conductors facilitates a reliable and effective grounding system. This practice helps maintain the integrity of the grounding connection and minimizes the risk of electromagnetic interference, which can occur if the ground conductors are far away or in separate enclosures.

By keeping the grounding conductor in close proximity to the circuit conductors, it ensures that any fault current can effectively return to the ground without significant impedance, allowing protective devices to function properly. This proximity also simplifies installation and adherence to code requirements regarding grounding methods.

Other options suggest practices that could lead to inadequate grounding connections or added complexity that does not enhance safety. Therefore, installing equipment grounding conductors in the same raceway, cable, or trench as the conductors is recognized as standard and safest practice in grounding and bonding.