What is the definition of step potential in electrical safety?

Step potential refers specifically to the voltage difference that can develop across the feet of a person who is standing near a ground fault or fault current. When someone encounters an electrical fault, the ground or earth can become energized, causing a voltage differential between points that a person might be touching—generally their feet while standing. If a person straddles or stands on ground that has varying potential due to electricity, their body could complete a circuit, resulting in electrical shock.

Understanding step potential is crucial for ensuring electrical safety, particularly in contexts where people may be near exposed electrical equipment or in wet conditions, where the risk of ground faults and associated hazards increases. This concept underscores the importance of grounding systems and electrical safety design to prevent dangerous voltage differentials in environments where people operate or work.