What can be a consequence of improper bonding in a grounding system?

Improper bonding in a grounding system can lead to increased risk of electric shock for several reasons. Bonding connects electrical equipment and systems to the grounding conductor, ensuring that all metal parts that could potentially become energized are at the same electrical potential. When bonding is done incorrectly or is inadequate, it can create pathways for fault currents that may not be safely directed to the ground. This may result in exposed conductive parts remaining energized, which poses a dangerous shock hazard to users.

Where the system is not properly bonded, differences in electrical potential can arise, increasing the chance that a person who touches an ungrounded metal surface could complete a circuit to ground through their body, leading to serious injury or even fatality. The other choices do not correctly describe the consequences of improper bonding, as improved electrical efficiency, equipment malfunction, and enhanced lightning safety are not direct outcomes of bonding issues. Instead, proper bonding is critical for safety, ensuring that fault currents can be safely managed and minimizing the risk of electric shock.