The permanent joining of metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path that will assure electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct safely any current likely to be imposed. (NFPA 70, National Electrical Code.)
Department of Energy AREA SAFT, DOE Handbook, Electrical Safety (Appendix B), Acronyms and Definitions, DOE-HDBK-1092-98, D.C. 20585, USA 1998. http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2013/07/f2/hdbk 1092.pdf, (Electr Sfty - Amer) {43}