earthing

The safety device of connecting an electrical system in a building to the earth, especially in a milking shed. Failure of the connection causes electrification of parts of the building. This may cause poor milk letdown, restlessness, convulsions or sudden death depending on the strength of the current and the completeness of the animals’ contact with the floor. See also electrocution, free electricity.

(DOD, NATO) The process of making a satisfactory electrical connection between the structure, including the metal skin, of an object or vehicle, and the mass of the Earth, to ensure a common potential with the Earth. See also bonding.