Do exposed non-current-carrying metal parts of portable or mobile equipment need to be grounded by connecting to an equipment grounding conductor?

The requirement for grounding exposed non-current-carrying metal parts of portable or mobile equipment stems from safety regulations aimed at preventing electrical shock hazards. In situations where equipment may be subjected to mechanical stress or might become energized due to a fault condition, grounding is essential for ensuring that any electrical fault is quickly and safely directed to the ground.

By connecting these metal parts to an equipment grounding conductor, the risk of electric shock to users is significantly minimized. This grounding provides a pathway for fault current, thereby tripping circuit breakers or blowing fuses and disconnecting the power supply before serious injury can occur.

Even if the equipment does not carry current under normal conditions, grounding helps to protect against incidental contact with live parts or faults, which could pose a danger if someone were to touch the exposed metal parts. Therefore, all exposed non-current-carrying metal parts should indeed be grounded to enhance safety.