What is the purpose of a grounding system?

The purpose of a grounding system is primarily to prevent electrical shock and provide a safe path for fault currents. When electrical systems experience faults, such as a short circuit, a grounding system redirects excess current safely into the ground, thereby reducing the risk of injury to individuals and preventing damage to equipment. By ensuring that all exposed conductive parts are at earth potential, the grounding system minimizes the likelihood of electric shocks, as it creates a low-resistance path for stray currents.

Additionally, grounding systems are essential for stabilizing voltage levels during normal operation and their sudden changes, contributing to the overall safety of electrical installations. This function is critical in both residential and industrial settings to safeguard personnel and equipment from electrical failures.