What is the primary concern when determining the height of a service drop?

The primary concern when determining the height of a service drop is ground clearance. Service drops must be positioned at a height that ensures they are safely above any potential obstacles at ground level to prevent accidental contact with vehicles, pedestrians, and equipment. This is essential for maintaining safety, as inadequate clearance can lead to hazardous situations, such as electrocution or equipment damage.

Proper height ensures compliance with safety codes and regulations that dictate minimum clearance distances based on the type of terrain and the nature of the surrounding environment. The goal is to provide a safe distance, allowing for both convenience and protection for people and property beneath the service drop. While factors like wind load, operational safety, and material type are important considerations in various aspects of electrical work, ground clearance is the critical aspect directly related to the height of the service drop.