While often used together, grounding and bonding are distinct but complementary practices. Grounding is the process of connecting an electrical system or equipment to the earth, creating a path for fault currents to safely discharge. Bonding is the practice of connecting all non-current-carrying metal parts of an electrical system to each other, ensuring they are all at the same electrical potential. This prevents dangerous voltage differences between different metal components, which could cause a shock hazard. A comprehensive electrical safety system requires both proper grounding and bonding.