What must be done for all grounded metal components within six feet of an existing bonding point, according to UL 96A?

Bonding refers to the practice of connecting conductive elements together to create a path for electrical currents to flow in the event of a lightning strike. According to UL 96A standards, bonding is essential for lightning protection systems to ensure that all grounded metal components function as a cohesive unit during a surge event. This helps to minimize the potential for side flash or step voltage hazards by equalizing the electrical potential across components.

When grounded metal components are located within six feet of an existing bonding point, they must be bonded to this point. This ensures that any lightning-induced electrical energy has a clear and direct path to the ground, reducing the risk of damage to the components and enhancing the overall safety of the structure. Proper bonding is a crucial part of maintaining the integrity of lightning protection systems, as it helps to ensure that all metal parts are at the same electrical potential, thereby minimizing the risk to individuals and equipment.