You're right to question the blanket application of 517 (Health Care Facilities) to a veterinary clinic based on just the phrase "redundant grounding" in exam rooms and surgery. Here's a breakdown of the code and common practices

NEC Article 517: Health Care Facilities - Generally Only Applies to Human Health Care
Scope of Article 517

The scope of 517 specifically addresses facilities used primarily for human patient care. NEC 517.1(A) makes this very clear. It covers "electrical installations in healthcare facilities that provide services to human patients."

Animal vs. Human

The NEC makes a distinction. Unless a veterinary facility also provides healthcare to humans (which is highly unlikely), Article 517 technically doesn't apply.

Why Redundant Grounding Might Be Specified

Even though 517 technically doesn't apply, the specification of "redundant grounding" likely stems from these considerations:1. Sensitive Equipment

Veterinary clinics use increasingly sophisticated and sensitive electronic equipment for diagnostics, monitoring, and surgery (e.g., digital X-ray, ultrasound, electrosurgical units). The specifier may be aiming to ensure the highest possible level of grounding integrity to protect that equipment and prevent malfunctions due to noise or ground loops.2.

Animal Safety

While not strictly under the umbrella of 517, the intention might be to protect animals from electrical shock. Animals, especially when anesthetized, can be more susceptible to even minor electrical leakage currents.3.

Misunderstanding or Overspecification

The specifier may simply be overcautious or have a misunderstanding of the NEC requirements, mistakenly believing that "healthcare" applies to both humans and animals.4.

Liability Concerns

Veterinarians and facility owners, like medical professionals, have liability concerns and could be worried about equipment malfunctions that endanger an animal.

What to Do

Here's a recommended approach:1. Clarify with the Specifier (Architect/Engineer)

This is the MOST important step. Contact the person who wrote the specifications and ask them to clarify exactly what they mean by "redundant grounding" and why they believe it's necessary in a veterinary clinic.

Ask specifically

"Is this intended to meet the requirements of NEC Article 517? If so, on what basis are you applying this to a veterinary facility?"

Inquire about their rationale

"Can you explain the reasoning behind the redundant grounding requirement? Are you concerned about sensitive equipment or animal safety?"2.

Document Everything

Keep a record of your communications with the specifier, including dates, names, and the content of the conversations. This documentation is critical if there's a dispute later.3.

If 517 is Unjustified, Offer Alternatives

If the specifier insists on 517 without a valid reason, politely suggest that the same level of protection might be achieved through other means that are less costly and more appropriate for a veterinary setting. Consider:

High-Quality Grounding System

Focus on a robust, code-compliant grounding system according to NEC Article 250. This includes properly sized grounding electrode conductors, bonding jumpers, and equipment grounding conductors.

Isolated Ground Receptacles

For sensitive equipment, consider using isolated ground (IG) receptacles (compliant with NEC 250.146(D)) connected to an equipment grounding conductor that is insulated from the raceway and the building steel (this is sometimes referred to as an "independent grounding conductor"). This helps minimize noise and interference.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are essential in wet or damp locations and near water sources to protect both humans and animals from shock hazards (NEC 210.8).

Surge Protection

Install surge protective devices (SPDs) at the service entrance and at sensitive equipment to protect against voltage transients.4.

If 517 is Justified (Unlikely, But Possible)

If the specifier can provide a compelling reason why 517-level grounding is necessary (beyond a simple misapplication of the code), you'll need to price your bid accordingly. However, be sure to get that justification in writing.

Key Considerations for a Bid



Include an Exception/Clarification in Your Bid

If you believe the specification of "redundant grounding" is vague or potentially excessive, include a line item in your bid that clarifies the scope of your grounding work. For example: "Grounding system in accordance with NEC Article 250. Additional requirements beyond standard NEC requirements will be priced separately, pending clarification from the architect/engineer."

Price Alternatives (If Appropriate)

If you suggest alternative grounding methods (IG receptacles, GFCIs, etc.), provide separate pricing for those options.*

Liability

If you perform work according to the specifications that you believe are incorrect or unnecessary, you could potentially be held liable if something goes wrong. That's why documentation and clarification are so important.

In Summary:

Don't blindly follow a specification that seems out of place. The key is to communicate with the specifier, understand their reasoning, and propose a solution that provides the necessary level of safety and performance without being unnecessarily expensive or burdensome. Document everything, and always adhere to the NEC's minimum requirements for grounding. Flag for review