Why might bonding be necessary in electrical installations?

Bonding is essential in electrical installations primarily to eliminate shock hazards. The purpose of bonding is to ensure that all conductive parts of the electrical system are connected together, which creates a path for any stray electrical currents to safely return to the ground. This significantly reduces the risk of electrical shock to individuals who may accidentally come in contact with these conductive parts.

When electrical equipment and enclosures are properly bonded, they can protect users from potential shock hazards that could occur if a fault develops. For example, if an electrical fault occurs and a metal casing becomes energized, bonding the casing to the ground allows the fault current to flow safely away rather than through a person who touches the casing.

While enhancing electrical conductivity and reducing installation costs may be considerations in electrical work, these factors are not the primary reasons for the bonding of electrical systems. Simplifying wiring systems may be a byproduct of good design practices, but again, it does not address the critical safety aspect that bonding provides. Therefore, the key advantage of bonding lies in its role in enhancing safety and minimizing the risks of electric shock, making it a crucial aspect of electrical installations.