[Shop-talk] Does the ground ground?

[Donald H Locker]

I wouldn't count on it.  A real ground has a long copper rod driven in to 
provide a low-resistance attachment to the earth.  The concrete is a good 
insulator, and unless the pole extends a considerable distance below the 
concrete and is not corroded, the fixture is not grounded.  At least not enough 
to be considered a safety ground.

Donald.

JAMES STONE wrote:
> I replaced a porch light today and discovered that it was only wired with 14-2
> wire without a ground.  Since the light pole is set in concrete and buried in
> the ground, is it grounded?  Just curious.