How should the grounding conductor be secured in proper installations?

In proper installations, the grounding conductor should be secured with a permanent connection. This ensures that the grounding system remains reliable and effective over time. A permanent connection provides the necessary stability and ensures that the grounding pathway is intact, which is crucial for safety. A secure grounding conductor minimizes the risk of electrical faults, which can lead to dangerous conditions like shock or fire.

The grounding conductor must be firmly attached so that it does not come loose due to vibrations, movement, or other conditions that may occur in the installation environment. This aspect is particularly important in low voltage systems where consistent grounding is essential for both functionality and safety.

Other methods of securing a grounding conductor, such as a loose connection or excessive force, would compromise the integrity of the connection. Additionally, using screws with a colored finish does not inherently pertain to the effectiveness of the grounding connection, as it is the quality and nature of the connection itself that ultimately determines its reliability.