Can a neutral terminal be used as an equipment ground terminal?

Issue:
Using QO and Homeline Load centers can the ground bar be used with neutral wires?

Product Line:
QO and Homeline Load Center

Environment:
Wiring

Cause:
Clarification

Resolution:
Sharing neutrals with grounds and visa versa,  depends upon the application in which the load center is used.
If the load center is installed as the point of Service Entrance, the neutral is field bonded to the enclosure so any unused neutral / ground terminals may be used to terminate either wires. They are already commonly connected as the Service Entrance wiring standards dictate for load centers and panelboards.

If the load center is installed as a sub-panel, the neutral is isolated and not bonded to the enclosure's ground therefore all branch ground wires must be terminated into an equipment ground bar and neutrals to the neutral bar only.

Released for:Schneider Electric New Zealand