If a steel tower is grounded poorly, what potential risk exists when working near it?

When a steel tower is grounded poorly, the step potential hazard becomes a significant concern for those working in proximity to it. Step potential refers to the difference in voltage that can occur between a person's feet when they are standing near a grounded structure, such as a steel tower. If the tower is not effectively grounded, it can create a situation where a fault current travels through the soil, resulting in a voltage gradient. This can lead to a dangerous situation where an individual standing nearby could experience a substantial electric shock by simply standing with their feet apart, as the voltage difference between their feet can create a current flow through their body.

In comparison, the other options involve different concepts that are not primarily linked to the grounding of the tower. Overloading of circuits pertains to issues related to electrical load management, not grounding. Heat generation is typically a consequence of current flow and resistive heating in wires or components but does not directly relate to grounding issues. Short-circuiting usually refers to a direct connection between two conductors that creates an unintended path for current, which is different from the risks posed by poor grounding. Therefore, recognizing the implications of step potential is crucial for safety when working near poorly grounded structures.