What must be ensured in the configuration of conductors in service and distribution panels?

In service and distribution panels, it is essential to ensure that neutral and ground conductors are segregated. This separation helps to maintain the proper functioning of the electrical system and enhances safety. When neutral and ground conductors are combined in the same bus, it can lead to several issues, such as the potential for shock hazards, overloading of the neutral, or even creating parallel paths for the return current which can cause interference and safety concerns.

Keeping ground and neutral conductors separate helps in establishing a clear and safe ground reference, preventing the neutral current from flowing through the grounding system. This segregation is particularly important in subpanels where the ground is required to be separate from the neutral to comply with electrical codes and ensure that ground faults are cleared correctly without risking overloading the ground system.

In summary, ensuring the segregation of neutral and ground conductors in distribution panels is critical for achieving a safe and efficient electrical system design.