ON Home
Think of as a "lightning arrestor". It's purpose is to keep the high voltages and currents that can be induced into your wiring by a nearby lightning strike, from making it into your structure. According to the National Electrical Code, a ground block should be used on all installations.
Note: grounding your switch or ground block to a place other than the ground rod where your electrical service enters the structure may result in ground loops and/or the danger of shock from stray electrical currents. Contrary to popular belief, not all grounds are at the same potential.