What is the main purpose of connecting non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment to a grounding conductor?

What is the main purpose of connecting non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment to a grounding conductor?

• A. To increase electrical resistance
• B. To prevent shock hazards
• C. To boost current capacity
• D. To manage electrical loads

Answer: (B)

Connecting non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment to a grounding conductor primarily serves to prevent shock hazards. This practice ensures that if there is a fault or insulation failure, any stray voltage on these metal parts is directed safely to the ground, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock to individuals who may come into contact with the equipment. Grounding helps to stabilize voltage levels, providing a safe path for excess current during fault conditions, thus protecting both people and equipment from potential electrical hazards. The role of grounding as a safety measure is crucial, as it provides a fail-safe that addresses the dangers of electrical faults, ensuring that any unwanted electricity does not remain on open metal parts, where it could pose a serious risk. This grounding method is a fundamental aspect of electrical safety codes and standards, underscoring its importance in residential and commercial installations alike.

Connecting non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment to a grounding conductor primarily serves to prevent shock hazards. This practice ensures that if there is a fault or insulation failure, any stray voltage on these metal parts is directed safely to the ground, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock to individuals who may come into contact with the equipment. Grounding helps to stabilize voltage levels, providing a safe path for excess current during fault conditions, thus protecting both people and equipment from potential electrical hazards.

The role of grounding as a safety measure is crucial, as it provides a fail-safe that addresses the dangers of electrical faults, ensuring that any unwanted electricity does not remain on open metal parts, where it could pose a serious risk. This grounding method is a fundamental aspect of electrical safety codes and standards, underscoring its importance in residential and commercial installations alike.