The use of equipotential grounding provides what benefit?

The benefit of equipotential grounding primarily lies in its ability to provide a low-resistance path to shunt fault current around the worker. This practice minimizes the potential difference across the worker's body during a fault condition, effectively reducing the risk of electrical shock. By creating a plane where all points are kept at the same electrical potential, equipotential grounding helps ensure that any stray currents are directed safely away from personnel, enhancing safety during electrical maintenance or operations.

This grounding technique is essential in high-voltage environments, particularly in substations, as it facilitates the rapid dissipation of fault currents to the ground, thereby protecting workers who might come into contact with electrical equipment. The promotion of safety through reduced voltage differences helps ensure that any electrical hazards are mitigated effectively.