Office Buildings 12 B02 & 12 B03

METHOD STATEMENT: Method Statement for Ref Rev 00

Testing & Commissioning of EARTHING SYSTEM Date 29-12-2020 Page 1 of 27

METHOD STATEMENT FOR TESTING & COMMISSIONING

FOR EARTHING SYSTEM
Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems

CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 )

Testing Procedure For

Earthing Protection Systems

2 25.8.2020 Issued for Approval Sama M. Rana W. Walid Reyad

Rev Date Description PREP. CHECK. APPROVED CLIENT

REF.

OWNER AL-Futtaim Real Estate Development SAE

REF.

Counsaltant R.M.C

REF.

CONTRACTOR GAMA

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Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 ) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 2
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

ITEM CONTENTS Pages

1.0 Ground system testing procedure 3

1.1 ground system testing procedure Steps 4

2.0 Required Earthing Systems Resistances 12

2.1 required Earthing Systems Resistances for project 13

3.0 Earthing systems Testing form 14

3.1 Earthing systems Testing form 15

4.0 Earth Tester Calibration Certificate 16

4.1 Earth Tester Calibration Certificate 17

5.0 Earth Tester Catalogue 22

5.1 Earth Tester Catalogue 23

2 OF 8 8/25/2020
Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 ) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 2
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

1. Ground system testing procedure

3 OF 8 8/25/2020
 Ground System
Testing Procedure
-Fall of Potential
Method

Table of Contents

1. General ……………………………….. 2
1.1 Purpose ……………………………… 2
1.2 Scope .………………………………. 2
1.3 Introduction .……………………............ . 2
1.4 Theory .……………………............... 3
2. Testing Procedures ……………………… 6
2.1 Safety Information ……………………… 6
2.2 Equipment ……………………… 6
2.3 Procedures ……………………… 7

List of Figures
1-1 Principle of Operation ………………… 3
1-2 Ground Resistance Testing ……………. 5
2-1 Valid Test Graph ……………….. 9
2-2 Invalid Test Graph 1 ……………….. 9
2-3 Invalid Test Graph 2 ……………….. 10
2-4 Sample Report Form ……………….. 11

1.General

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

 1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to provide the ability to properly
test an installed grounding system utilizing the Fall Of Potential
method.

1.2 Scope
This document lists the ground test meters, ancillary equipment
and detailed procedures for performing a proper 3 Point Fall of
Potential Test. It also provides the ability to determine the validity
of the test results and shows examples of proper and invalid test
results.

1.3 Introduction
The Fall Of Potential method is the most recognized method for
measuring the resistance to earth of a grounding system, or the
ground system performance. It is based on an IEEE standard
and when properly performed, it is a very accurate test.
Although most people recognize that grounding is required for
personnel protection, the grounding system also serves as the
basis for the electrical protection of your site or facility. It
determines the effectiveness of the lightning protection and
surge suppression systems. Without good grounding, these
systems do not function. Grounding also serves as the path for
system noise to be dissipated from equipments.
Grounding systems should be tested upon installation and then
annually during their service life. The initial testing establishes a
performance baseline, confirms that the design specification is
met and validates the quality of the installation. Annual testing
ensures the continued integrity of the system and provides
protection against degradation prior to equipment damage or
performance problems.

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

1.4 Theory

In the fall of potential test, three points of ground contact are

considered:
1. The grounding system under test (X)
2. A current probe (Z) placed some distance from the ground
system under test.
3. A voltage probe (Y) that is inserted at various distances
between the system under test and the current probe.

Ideally the X-Z distance should be 10 times the ground rod length
or grid width (i.e. 10 ft. rod, 100 ft. spacing). *

1.4 Theory (Continued)

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

 * Note: Lyncole’s experience has shown that the (Z) probe may be placed at
a minimum 5 times the length of the ground rod under test (i.e.10 foot rod, 50
ft spacing). If a grid is being tested, the minimum distance is 5 times the
widest point of the grid.
However, always go 10 times if the space is available. Evaluating the test
results is the only way of validating the results and determining if the distance
was adequate.
With this method of test, the meter injects a current into the
ground system under test (X). The current flows through the
earth to the remote current probe (Z) and returns to the meter.
As the current flows through the resistive material (earth) a
voltage drop is created. This voltage drop is proportional to the
amount of current flow and the resistance of the ground system
to earth. The voltage probe (Y) is used to measure this voltage
drop. The meter then knows both the amount of current flow and
the resulting voltage drop. It simply uses Ohm’s law to calculate
and display the resistance.
The resistance is measured at several locations moving the
voltage probe (Y) at regular intervals, each of them equal 10%
distance X Z.
The resistance measurements are then plotted along with the
distance between the ground system and the Y probe. From this
graph the actual ground system resistance can be determined
along with the validity of the test. See Figure 2-1, pg. 9.

The grounding system must be electrically isolated for the 3

Point Test to be valid. If not isolated, the readings will reflect all
the grounding systems in the area hooked in parallel. The
reading will always be very low and have no bearing on the
actual ground system resistance. The result is not an inaccurate
test, but an invalid one.

The fall of potential method is the most reliable method of

ground resistance testing. However, in about 95 % out of the
cases, the test is invalid because. Once again, we have to
emphasize the fact that this method is based on “ideal” test
conditions including complete electrical isolation of the grounding
system and proper spacing of the current probe.

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

1.4 Theory (Continued)
It is also important to emphasize that this is a ground test,
performed on a circuit controlled by many factors as well as by
their interdependence and interference. The current going into
ground via a buried electrode is not following a straight line path
as in a typical conventional electric circuit. Fault current radiates
in all directions around the electrode, but the pattern of dispersal
depends of the surrounding soil and its environment.

Considering all of these, it is strongly recommended to perform

the test in at least two perpendicular directions. If enough
space is available for additional testing, more measurements will
increase the accuracy of the soil model and will help eliminate
the errors caused by nearby buried conductors, pipes or other
metallic parts.

Figure 1-2: Ground Resistance Testing

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

2. Testing Procedures
2.1 Safety Warning Information
There is a possibility that a fault on a power system will cause a
current flow on the ground system while a test is in progress,
causing unexpected high voltages on the current and voltage
probes. If a significant risk exists, it is recommended that the
persons performing the test use protective rubber gloves and a
rubber safety mat during the test.
Note: The grounding system must be electrically isolated
during this test. This should only be performed by qualified
personnel and after permission is granted by all responsible
personnel.

Check for current on the ground before disconnecting. Do

not disconnect the ground of a live circuit. Disconnecting
the ground of a live circuit could cause severe injury or
even death.

2.2 Equipment
 A 4-Pole or a 3-Pole Digital - Ground Resistance Tester
 At least three probes
 Insulated wire leads
 Tape measure
 Hammer (to secure probes into earth)

2.3 Procedures

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

 Note 1: In order for the test to provide valid results, the ground
system must be de-energized and disconnected from the utility
neutral system. Any connections that could provide a path to the
utility neutral must be disconnected.
Note 2: Check your operator’s manual for detailed meter
operation.

1) Isolate the grounding grid under test from all other

supplemental grounds (i.e. water pipes, building steel,etc.).
Also disconnect any neutral connections and all telco.

2) If a 4-pole ground resistance meter is used, some meters

require a connection between the C1 and P1 terminals. If a
3-pole ground resistance meter is used, no connection
between the terminals is required.

3) Connect the C1 connection to the ground rod or system to

be tested.

4) Install the current probe (Z) at a distance equal to 5-10

times the length of the ground rod or 5-10 times the
diagonal distance of the ground grid under test. If a ring or
grid is being tested, the distance must be measured from
the outer edge of the ring. The probe must have good
contact with the earth. Connect this probe to the C2
connection on the meter.

5) Install the voltage probe (Y) at approximately 3% of the

distance from the ground system and the (Z) probe. The
(Y) Probe must be in line with the ground and the (Z)
probe. Connect the probe to the P2 connection on the
meter.

6) Push button to activate the meter. When a measurement is

shown, allow the reading to stabilize and record the
reading in the chart of page 11.

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

 Procedures (Continued)
7) Move the (Y) probe to 10% of the distance between
ground system and (Z). Test as in step 6 and record the
results in a chart as on page 11. Repeat this step (moving
the probe at 10% intervals) until the 90% distance is
reached.
8) Once all the readings have been recorded, plot a graph
with the measured resistances as the y-axis. The distance
from the (X) probe is the x-axis. At approximately 62% of
the total distance, a plateau or “flat spot” should be
noticeable in the plot. The resistance at this plateau is the
resistance of the system under test. If there is no leveling
of the plot, then the test is to be considered invalid since
the (Z) probe is not far enough from the (X) probe. If the
plateau is very low and flat, then the test is considered
invalid and most like still has an intentional or unintentional
neutral connection. See Figures 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, pgs.9-10.

9) If difficulty is encountered in obtaining readings, it is most

likely caused by a high probe to earth resistance. Pouring
water or Gatorade on the probes sometimes helps. This
will not have any significant effect on the reading.

10) If available installing longer probes that provide a more

surface contact may also help. Some meters have less
difficulty overcoming the probe to earth resistance than
others.
11) Perform additional testing in at least one perpendicular
direction. The readings should be averaged.

Ground System Testing Procedure (Fall of Potential Method)

Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 ) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 2
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

2. Required Earthing Systems Resistances

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New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 0
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

2.1 Required Earthing Systems Resistances for project :

a. Medium Voltage Earthing system Resistance impedance <= 3 Ohm is satisfied

b. Low Voltage Earthing system Resistance impedance <= 5 Ohm is satisfied

c. Earthing system for Low Current Resistance impedance <= 1 Ohm is satisfied

5 OF 8 8/25/2020
Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 ) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 2
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

3. Earthing systems Testing form

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 Earthing Protection Systems

Lightning Protection Systems

EARTHING SYSTEM TESTING & WARRANTY CERTIFICATES

Project :

Owner :

Consultant :

Main Contractor :

TEST DONE BY : New Power Systems DATE :

TESTER : CHAUVIN ARNOUX DIGITAL EARTH TESTER Model :C.A 6462

MEASURING RESULTS

S Description Result Statues

1 Earthing System For Medium Voltage ( Ω ) Less Than 3 Ω Accepted
2 Earthing System For Low Voltage ( Ω ) Less Than 5 Ω Accepted
3 Earthing System For Low Current ( Ω ) Less Than 1 Ω Accepted

- The Testing is According to Egyptian & British Standards.

- The Warranty For All Earthing Systems 1 Year .

Best Regards,

Eng : Walid Reyad

WWW.Npsegypt.Com
Head Office : 11 Omarat El Dobat- Omarart -Shubra -Entrance 1–Flat 7,Cairo, Egypt
Telephone : +202 01004404901-01018661120 Fax : +202 24260089
Emails : [email protected] - [email protected]
Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 ) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 2
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

4. Earth Tester Calibration Certificate

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Doc. No:- NPS-1600110-Ea
New Power Systems
Project: CFC - Office Building (12B02,12B03 ) Document No.: NPS-1600110-Ea
Client: GAMA Rev.: 2
Location: New Cairo Date 25.8.2020

5. Earth Tester Catalogue

8 OF 8 8/25/2020
Expertise for Earths C.A 6460
C.A 6462
Ground, earth electrode and coupling Earth and Resistivity
measurement using traditional rod methods Testers

3 testers in one: resistivity, earth, coupling

Validation of measurement through automatic check:
3 lights indicate the presence of faults liable to impair
measurement results

Heavy-duty on-site case with cover for use on difficult grounds

Large LCD display with backlighting
 R obust and watertight, the C.A 6460 and C.A 6462 are easy-to-use instruments designed specially
for use in the field. Wherever you need to install an electric ground connection or certify an
existing one, the C.A 6460 and C.A 6462 help you perform accurate, reliable and quick diagnosis
while providing the friendliest and safest test environment.

COMPLETE AND WELL-DESIGNED TOOLS The measurement result and its unity are read directly on
the large, backlit digital screen.
Using the conventional rod-based method, the C.A 6460
Three lights indicate any defect or interference liable to
and C.A 6462 measure resistivity ("4-wire" connections),
impair measurement results:
ground resistances ("3-wire" connections) and coupling
between electrically independent earth electrodes ("4-wire"
red flashing FAULT LED (E-H): indicates a fault in the cur-
connections). rent circuit (voltage at terminals ≥ 30 V peak)
They are equipped with 4 color-coded terminals for easy
red flashing HIGH RESISTANCE LED (ES-S): voltage
connection and a captive bar for changing from a 4-wire circuit resistance too high (R ≥ 50kΩ)
to a 3-wire measurement very quickly and easily.
red flashing HIGH NOISE LED (ES-S): voltage circuit
Plus, the C.A 6462 is fitted with a rechargeable battery with noise ≥ 13 V peak
an internal charger.
VERY SAFE TO USE
MEASUREMENT AND ERROR DIAGNOSIS When it comes to safety, the C.A 6460 and C.A 6462 meet
Once the rods have been installed and connected (named the strictest of standards.
E, ES, S and H), begin measurement by simply pressing These instruments are very suitable to severe environ-
the push-button. For maximum accuracy, the range and cur- ments: parasitic voltages, high telluric currents, highly
rent selection is carried out automatically. resistive auxiliary connections, etc.

Mains supply socket with

dust cover (C.A 6462)
Fuse holder

Large backlit LCD display:

4 connecting terminals digital display of measured value


named E (X), ES (Xv), S (Y) with its unity
and H (Z) for banana plugs
or forked lugs Momentary-control push-button

for turning the instrument on and
beginning measurements:
as soon as the button is released,
the instrument turns itself off.

3 lights indicate those events liable to impair

measurement results
USE / APPLICATIONS:

Ground resistivity measurement with the "Wenner method" (4-rod method)

Depending on
the soil's properties,
this measurement
defines the best positions,
depth and geometry
necessary for installing
electric ground
connections.

E(X) ES(XV) S(Y) H(Z)

a a a
3a/4
O

Ground connection resistance measurement with the "TAGG method" (62% method)

This method,
using 2 auxiliary rods,
measures up to 2000 Ω,
even in worst-case
conditions.
Ground
connection to
be measured
E(X) S(Y) H(Z)

0 -10% 62% +10% 100%

Coupling measurement between two earths

4-wire measurements
are considered better
than 2-wire because
they free you from cord
resistance, which is
often too high.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
MEASUREMENT CHARACTERISTICS

Measurement from 0 to 2000 Ω within three automatic ranges
Measurement range Resolution Test current Accuracy
0.00…19.99 Ω 0.01 Ω 10 mA ±2% ±1pt
20.00…199.9 Ω 0.1 Ω 1 mA ±2% ±1pt
200.0…1999 Ω 1Ω 0.1 mA ±2% ±3pt

Measurement frequency: 128 Hz
Conditions for use: -10…55 °C / 20…90% RH

Open circuit voltage ≤ 42 V peak
Response time: between 4 and 8 seconds depending on
measurement conditions
OTHER FEATURES

Power supply

C.A 6460 C.A 6462

8 alkaline 1.5 V LR14 batteries or same-size Rechargeable NiMH battery
rechargeable NiMH or NiCd storage batteries (life: 6 h for a load at 80%)

Average charge life under permanent control

C.A 6460 C.A 6462

4,500 measurements of 15 s 1,180 measurements of 15 s

Watertight IP 53 case
Weight: about 2.8 kg (C.A 6460) and

Dimensions: 273 x 247 x 127 mm about 3.3 kg (C.A 6462)

COMPLIANCE TO STANDARDS

Electric safety: double insulation device, according to
EMC: EN 61 000-3, EN 61 000-4
NF EN 61010 / IEC 61557

TO ORDER
C.A 6460 C.A 6462
delivered with batteries and user's manual delivered with 2 m European-type mains supply lead
in 5 languages and user's manual in 5 languages

906 211 048 - Ed1 - 04/02 - Characteristics subject to modifications according to technological developments.
P01.1265.01 P01.1265.02

ACCESSORIES:
Standard Earth / Prestige Earth /

Resistivity Kit Resistivity Kit

P01.1018.23 P01.1018.25
Shoulder bag with Compartmentalized rigid
4 straight rods, bag with space for the tester,
2 extractors, including 4 T-rods,
2 reels (30 m of red cord, 4 reels (100 m of red cord,
30 m of blue cord), 60 m of blue cord,
3 m of green cord, 10 m of green cord
3 m of black cord and 20 m of black cord)
and 1 hammer. and a hammer.

REPLACEMENT PARTS:

1.5V alkaline LR14 battery (pack of 2) P01.2960.27

9.6V – 3.5 AH NIMH storage battery P01.2960.21

European mains lead P01.2961.74

HPC 0.1A fuse (pack of 10) P01.2970.12

TEST & MEASUREMENT DIVISION

France UNITED KINGDOM

190, rue Championnet Waldeck House - Waldeck Road
75876 PARIS CEDEX 18 MAIDENHEAD SL6 8BR
Tel: +33 1 44 85 44 86 Tel: 01628 788 888
Fax: +33 1 46 27 95 59 Fax: 01628 628 099
e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
www.chauvin-arnoux.fr www.chauvin-arnoux.co.uk