[fesdds]

I need to replace a ground rod clamp that is visible above ground. Do I need to turn main power off at panel to unscrew and place new clamp? Or do I need to have our electrical service provider cut power to our meter even? Thanks in advance.

M

[tkrussell]

To be safe, disconnecting an grounding electrode conductor should always be done with power off, as there may be fault currents existing, and if you become part of the circuit with wire in one hand while touching the ground rod, you may feel this current.

You should just be able to shut off your Main Breaker to be safe. However, there has been times, with the main off, there are fault currents flowing in a ground wire that comes from the utility supply. An electrician would have a amp meter to check the wire for current to be sure disconnecting a ground wire is safe.

I am sure you do not own an amp meter. Calling the utility to shut off power seems a bit drastic just for a simple job of changing a ground rod clamp. To be safe, shut off your Main, and still use voltage rated gloves to handle the ground wire.