With the increasing demand for computer network installations, telecommunications grounding and bonding has become a growing opportunity for electrical contractors. Although similar grounding principles apply, understanding the telecommunications terminology and special considerations has been a challenge.

As with traditional electrical grounding, telecommunications networks and equipment should be grounded to the electrical service. However, simply grounding to structural steel isn’t enough when tackling telecommunications systems. The sensitivity of the electronic equipment requires that the telecommunications cabling and power be effectively equalized to prevent loops or transients that can damage the equipment. This means designing a complete grounding and bonding system that goes beyond the basic "green-wire" methodology.