What does the term "bonding" refer to in electrical installations?

The term "bonding" in electrical installations specifically refers to the practice of connecting various metallic parts to create a continuous electrical path. This is crucial for safety because it helps prevent electrical shock hazards and ensures that any stray currents are safely directed to the ground. By establishing electrical continuity among conductive materials, bonding helps to equalize voltage potential and enhance the overall safety of electrical systems.

This process differs from grounding, which typically focuses on connecting electrical systems to the earth to discharge fault currents. Bonding is about interconnecting metal components, such as pipes, enclosures, and equipment, to ensure they all share the same voltage and prevent dangerous differences from occurring. This preventive measure is essential in reducing the risk of electrical faults and providing a safe environment for both users and equipment.