2 Scope 2.1 General 2.1.1 This Standard specifies the requirements for a uniform
telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure that shall be followed
within commercial buildings where telecommunications equipment is intended to
be installed. 2.1.2 This telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure in
conjunction with other grounding and bonding systems (e.g., electrical power
grounding system, water piping, lightning protection system) make up the
building grounding system. 2.1.3 This Standard specifies a telecommunications grounding and bonding
infrastructure, its interconnectivity to other building grounding systems, and
its support of telecommunications systems and equipment. The NCS TIB 93-12,
entitled Grounding and Bonding for Commercial and Government Buildings
Conforming to Telecommunications Infrastructure Standards - A Background
Report, provides additional information about bonding and grounding concepts
and practices, and addresses issues outside the scope of this Standard. 2.1.4 This Standard specifies the framework for the telecommunications
grounding and bonding infrastructure. Figure 2.1-1 depicts the scope of the
telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure for larger, multi-story
commercial buildings with multiple telecommunications backbones. Figure 2.1-2
depicts a smaller commercial building where all telecommunication spaces are
combined. This Standard specifies the requirements for: a) A ground reference for telecommunications systems within the
telecommunications entrance facility, the telecommunications closet,
and equipment room; b) Bonding and connecting pathways, cable shields, conductors, and
hardware at telecommunications closets, equipment rooms, and
entrance facilities. 2.1.5 While primarily intended to provide direction for design of new
commercial buildings, this Standard may be used as a guide for the renovation
or retrofit of existing buildings. The standard is intended to encourage
planning, which should include bonding and grounding arrangements that
accommodate installation of telecommunications equipment. 2.1.6 Design requirements and choices are described to enable the designer to
make the best design decisions.