What is the purpose of including an equipment grounding conductor in underground wiring at bulk storage plants?

Including an equipment grounding conductor in underground wiring at bulk storage plants is essential for ensuring electrical continuity. The grounding conductor establishes a low-resistance path for fault currents back to the source, which helps in protecting both personnel and equipment from electrical faults. In the context of underground environments where equipment may be exposed to various risks, including moisture and potential physical damage, having a reliable grounding system is crucial for maintaining safety and proper functioning of electrical systems. This allows protective devices such as circuit breakers or fuses to operate effectively during fault conditions, reducing the risk of shock hazards and fire. Thus, the primary reason for implementing an equipment grounding conductor is to ensure that any fault conditions are safely managed, maintaining reliable electrical service and safety in critical environments like bulk storage plants.