What is the main concern with step and touch voltage?

The main concern with step and touch voltage is that it can result in significant electrical shock hazards. Step voltage refers to the potential difference between points on the ground that a person might step across, while touch voltage is the potential difference between a grounded object and the person standing on the ground. When a fault occurs, these voltages can be dangerous, especially in the case of step or touch scenarios, where an individual may unknowingly expose themselves to high voltages simply by standing near or touching objects that are inadvertently energized.

For example, if there is a fault in an electrical system, it can create a voltage gradient in the earth. If a person is standing on the ground and touches an energized object, the current can pass through their body to reach the ground, resulting in a potentially lethal electric shock. Therefore, understanding and mitigating step and touch voltages are critical for ensuring safety in environments where electrical systems are present. Proper grounding and bonding practices help minimize these risks by maintaining the integrity of the electrical system and providing safe paths for fault currents.