In a hazardous location, how is an equipment bonding jumper installed for flexible metal conduit?

In hazardous locations, the installation of an equipment bonding jumper for flexible metal conduit must adhere to specific electrical and safety standards to ensure effective grounding and minimize the risk of electrical faults. The correct answer indicates that the bonding jumper can be installed on either the inside or outside surfaces of the flexible metal conduit, as specified by the relevant codes and standards.

The rationale behind allowing installation on either side stems from the need for flexibility in various application contexts and environmental considerations. By permitting installation on both surfaces, it accommodates different installation scenarios where accessibility or mechanical protection may vary. This ensures that regardless of the setting, the conduit remains adequately bonded, helping to maintain electrical continuity and safety.

In hazardous locations, proper bonding and grounding are crucial to prevent the accumulation of static electricity and reduce the risk of explosions or electrical fires. A bond ensures that any fault current or stray voltage has a safe path back to the ground, thus protecting both equipment and personnel.

Options that suggest restricting the installation to only inside or only outside would not provide the necessary flexibility, which could lead to unsafe conditions depending on the specific installation circumstances. Moreover, stating that a bonding jumper is not required altogether ignores the critical safety measures necessary in hazardous environments, where the risk factors are significantly heightened.