Even if the wire in question isnt broken, the hazard still exists. That ground screw he connected to is directly connected to the exposed metal cover screw and the metal strap of the outlet, which is screwed to the metal box. When anything is plugged into that outlet and used, the box becomes energized with the neutral current. also if it is a metal clad cable or conduit thats not properly grounded. The siding example above is a perfect example. When the said outlet wasnt in use...everything was fine. as soon as something was plugged in and turned on, it was energized. The siding never touched the ground, or was in contact with anything grounded( water pipes, other electrical equipment, metal venting, ect). When someone touched the siding while outlet was in use..zap, they completed the circuit.Originally posted by --GQ--:<br /> Ok I tried not to butt in, but I feel like a kid in a candy store. Once i see the lolly pop I will never make it out the door. I will keep it short like the one Daisy Duke use to wear......<br /><br />A neutral has a CURRENT CARRYING POTIENTIAL which means if the circuit is being used, current id present on that neutral and hazardous to your health. A ground on the other hand has NO CURRENT CARRYING POTIENTIAL and should not which means NO CURRENT shall be present at any time any wether conditions through out the 4 seasons. Even when the cows come home.<br /><br />Fellow man by splicing a ground wire to a neutral wire, you are introducing CURRENT CARRYING POTIENTIAL throughout the length of that wire and whatever CONDUCTIVE objects connected/touching it. Granted the whole house has many points of good grounding, but if that wire ever damage break loose the remaining portion still connected to the neutral is HOT. See pictoral below.<br /><br />
Merry Christmas