Protective bonding serves what primary purpose in an electrical installation?

• A. To increase fault current in the event of a fault.
• B. To equalize potential of exposed metalwork.
• C. To route live current through the earth path.
• D. To replace protective conductor with a separate path.

Answer: (B)

Protective bonding is about keeping exposed metal parts at the same electrical potential as the earth. By linking all exposed conductive surfaces to the earth with a low-impedance path, a fault that energizes metalwork won’t create a dangerous voltage difference for someone touching it. The fault current then has a quick, clear route to earth, so protective devices can trip fast and reduce the risk of electric shock. It’s not about increasing fault current, routing live current through earth during normal operation, or replacing the protective conductor with a separate path. The goal is equipotential metalwork and a reliable path for fault current to clear quickly.