What types of hazards do protective grounds primarily protect line workers from?

Protective grounds are crucial for ensuring the safety of line workers when they are performing maintenance or repair work on electrical systems. The primary purpose of these grounds is to mitigate risks associated with electrical hazards such as static charges, accidental energizing of lines, and induced voltages.

1. Static Charges: During maintenance, static electricity can build up on equipment or the workers themselves, which can potentially lead to electrical discharges. Protective grounding dissipates this static energy, significantly reducing the risk of shock.

2. Accidental Energizing: Workers could inadvertently energize a line they believe is de-energized, which poses a serious risk of shock or electrocution. Protective grounds provide a pathway for electrical current to safely divert to the ground, preventing accidental energization from being harmful.

3. Induced Voltage: Even when a line is de-energized, nearby energized lines can induce voltage in the de-energized line, which can be hazardous for workers. By placing protective grounds, any induced voltage can be directed safely into the ground, minimizing the danger to workers.

This option accurately reflects the nature of electrical hazards line workers face and underscores the importance of protective grounding in ensuring safety during maintenance activities. The other options,