According to Section 517.14, what is the minimum size of the bonding conductor that must connect the equipment grounding terminal buses in a patient care vicinity?

The minimum size of the bonding conductor that must connect the equipment grounding terminal buses in a patient care vicinity, as specified in Section 517.14, is indeed 10 AWG. This requirement is critical because in patient care areas, ensuring a reliable and effective grounding system is vital for the safety of patients and medical staff. An adequately sized bonding conductor helps maintain equipment operability and reduces the risk of electrical shock or equipment failure in sensitive environments where electrical devices are used in conjunction with patients.

Choosing 10 AWG as the minimum size reflects a balance between ensuring sufficient current-carrying capacity to handle fault conditions and practical considerations in installation and flexibility. Using smaller conductors would not only increase the risk of overheating and potential failure but could also compromise patient safety in emergencies. Hence, 10 AWG is established as an adequate standard that meets both safety and performance requirements in healthcare settings.