OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

What is the primary purpose of equipment grounding?

1. To connect the non-current carrying metal parts of equipment to the system grounded conductor

2. To increase the electrical efficiency of the equipment

3. To provide overload protection for electrical circuits

4. To minimize electrical noise in communication systems

The correct answer is: To connect the non-current carrying metal parts of equipment to the system grounded conductor

The primary purpose of equipment grounding is to connect the non-current carrying metal parts of equipment to the system grounded conductor. This is crucial for ensuring safety in electrical installations because it provides a path for electrical current to safely dissipate into the ground in the event of a fault. If there is a short circuit or a malfunction that causes the metal parts of the equipment to become energized, grounding helps prevent electric shock hazards to individuals who might come into contact with those parts. By connecting these metal parts to ground, it also helps in the proper operation of overcurrent protective devices, which can then detect the fault and disconnect the power supply, further safeguarding both people and equipment. Overall, grounding is fundamental in minimizing the risk of electrical hazards, establishing a reliable safety framework around the use of electrical equipment. The other options, while they pertain to electrical systems, do not aptly capture this crucial safety function.