What is the main reason for bonding and grounding during transfers of flammable liquids?

• A. Prevent static discharge that could ignite flammable vapors
• B. Improve mixing efficiency
• C. Reduce solvent evaporation
• D. Prevent chemical reaction with metals

Answer: (A)

Bonding and grounding during transfers of flammable liquids are all about controlling static electricity to prevent ignition. As liquid moves or is poured, electrical charges can accumulate on the liquid and its containers. If the source and receiving vessel are at different electrical potentials, a discharge can occur—often a spark—that has enough energy to ignite flammable vapors even without any visible flame. By bonding the containers with a conductor, you equalize their potential, and by grounding the system, you provide a safe path for charges to flow to earth. This keeps the entire transfer at nearly the same voltage and minimizes the chance of a spark forming near vapors that could ignite them, which is crucial for liquids with low flash points and high volatility. The other options don’t address this ignition risk from static electricity—improving mixing, reducing evaporation, or preventing chemical reactions with metals aren’t the primary safety concern during transfer.