The invention relates to a power grid fault data collection method and device. The method comprises the steps: a current operation mode of a power grid is judged according to a preset condition; underthe condition that the operation mode is a normal mode, a master station triggers a recording data request in real time after receiving the recording brief report to obtain recording data; and underthe condition that the operation mode is an emergency mode, after the master station receives the recording brief report, a recording data request is triggered according to first preset time to obtainrecording data. In the embodiment of the invention, the calling efficiency is improved by providing the substation with a period of time focused on calling protection and recorder recording, so thatthe substation data pressure peak value is reduced, the substation data uploading capability is improved, and meanwhile, the master station can accurately and timely know the fault condition of the power grid.