Grounding
The term "ground" refers to a conductive body, usually the earth. "Grounding" a tool or electrical system means intentionally creating a low-resistance path to the earth. When properly done, current from a short or from lightning follows this path, thus preventing the buildup of voltages that could otherwise result in electric shock, injury, or death.
Under certain conditions, even a small amount of electric current can result in heart fibrillation and death. An electric shock also can cause the user to fall off a ladder or other elevated work surface and be injured due to the fall.
Electric power-operated tools used in construction must either be approved double-insulated tools or be grounded in accordance with OSHA's construction electrical requirements. Common protective methods include the following:
- using a three-wire cord connected to a properly grounded receptacle
- using an approved double-insulated tool
Three-wire cords contain two current-carrying conductors and a grounding conductor. Any time an adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known ground. The third prong must never be removed from the plug.
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2-6. What should never be done to a grounding-type plug?
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