What is the industry standard distance for installing a ground rod from the pole in undisturbed earth?

The industry standard distance for installing a ground rod from the pole in undisturbed earth is indeed 5 feet. This distance is recommended to ensure that the ground rod can effectively dissipate electrical energy into the earth, providing a proper ground for safety and operational reliability. The proximity to the pole helps maintain the integrity of the grounding system while ensuring that it is still distant enough to avoid any interference from the pole itself or other attached infrastructure.

Installing the ground rod too close could lead to ineffective grounding due to potential soil impedance, while placing it further away could create challenges in connectivity and continuity of ground potential. The 5-foot standard strikes a balance, allowing for adequate grounding without compromising safety or functionality. This distance is widely accepted in the electrical utility and construction industries, making it a norm in best practices for grounding installations.