Bonding in electrical systems is primarily used to prevent what?

Bonding in electrical systems serves a critical safety function primarily aimed at preventing electrical shock. By connecting conductive parts of electrical systems together, bonding ensures that in the event of a fault, the electrical current has a low-resistance path to ground. This is vital because it allows protective devices, such as circuit breakers or fuses, to activate and cut off the power supply, minimizing the risk of shock to individuals who may come into contact with energized equipment.

While static charge buildup is indeed a concern in many environments, especially those involving flammable materials, the specific role of bonding in electrical systems is centered around creating a safe environment to protect against electrical shock hazards. It is not directly designed to address issues from power surges or overheating, which are mitigated through different protective measures like surge protectors and circuit breakers for overload conditions. Thus, the primary objective of bonding in electrical systems highlights its importance in safeguarding human lives by effectively preventing electrical shock.