Where should bare aluminum or copper-clad aluminum grounding electrode conductors not be used?

Bare aluminum or copper-clad aluminum grounding electrode conductors should not be used in direct contact with masonry or the earth due to the potential for corrosion and degradation of the conductive material. When these conductors come into direct contact with damp conditions found in masonry or earth, they are susceptible to electrolysis, which can lead to deterioration over time. This degradation compromises the effectiveness of the grounding system, leading to safety hazards and reduced performance.

In contrast, while there may be concerns with using these conductors in attics, damp locations, or within demountable partitions, these environments do not present the same degree of corrosion risk as direct contact with moisture-retaining materials like masonry or soil. Therefore, avoiding direct contact with masonry or earth is critical to maintaining the longevity and reliability of grounding systems.