IEEE 1048-2016 is the standard titled IEEE Guide for Protective Grounding of Power Lines, and it addresses grounding practices used to reduce electrical hazard during work on energized or de-energized line systems. For power, energy, and industrial applications, it provides a practical technical reference for planning protective grounding methods, selecting safe work practices, and supporting consistent field procedures. It is especially relevant where line maintenance and outage work require clear, dependable grounding guidance.

IEEE 1048-2016 overview

This guide focuses on protective grounding for power lines, where temporary grounding methods help control induced voltages, accidental energization, and other electrical risks. IEEE 1048-2016 is relevant to utility and industrial line work because it supports disciplined grounding decisions during construction, maintenance, repair, and switching activities. The document is useful when organizations need a common technical basis for work planning, crew safety, and grounding practice across different line conditions and operating environments.

Typical use cases

IEEE 1048-2016 is commonly used when crews must apply protective grounds to overhead or related power line work before maintenance begins. It may support outage planning, line clearance tasks, temporary work protection, and procedures for verifying safe conditions around transmission or distribution assets. The guide is also relevant for operations involving conductors, supports, and associated electrical equipment where grounding location, sequence, and method affect worker protection and system control.

Why this standard matters

Using IEEE 1048-2016 helps organizations align grounding practice with a recognized engineering guide, which can improve safety and reduce uncertainty in the field. Consistent guidance is important when teams must compare site conditions, select suitable grounding equipment, and document work methods for compliance or review. For procurement and procedures, the standard can also support clearer specification of protective grounding expectations, helping reduce risk and promote repeatable practices across similar jobs.

• Protective grounding for power lines
• Work protection during maintenance and repair
• Safety-focused line procedures and planning
• Relevant to utility and industrial power systems
• Supports consistent grounding practice