"chuck" wrote in message
link.net...
There are two issues:

Is it possible that lethal voltages might be found between the copper pipe
and the grounding wire (when disconnected from the pipe, of course)?
Absolutely! It is not likely, but it can and has happened.

Second issue is what to do about it? You can carefully measure the voltage
when the wire is disconnected, but you need the right kind of meter for
that. Best, and easiest, approach is to clip a jumper between the
grounding wire and the copper pipe before removing the clamp, etc. When
you're finished, remove the jumper.

Needless to say, potentially lethal voltages are a sign of a problem that
ought to be diagnosed and corrected. They are not a normal condition. This
is very definitely not in the same class as taking a shower!

Good luck.

Chuck

I don't understand your last sentence. I'm saying that if you're gravely
concerned about having a "potentially lethal" voltage connected to your
plumbing pipe, then I'd avoid touching any of the plumbing in the house and
I certainly wouldn't get soaking wet and stand in a shower lest the voltage
decide I'm a better path to ground. Is there a non-zero risk of dying from
doing this? Yes, there is. So while we're at it, why don't we have the OP
wear linesman's gloves and use a hot stick to install the clamp?

todd