Are you familiar with the differences between
"Earth Grounding"
and
"Equipment Grounding"
?
The basic purpose of an earth-grounding system is to protect the electrical system and equipment from super-imposed voltages caused by lightning and accidental contact with higher voltage systems. The earth-ground connection also prevents the buildup of static charges on equipment and materials.
Equipment grounding serves several functions. First, it is the primary way to protect personnel from electrocution. Secondly, it is the most critical common link to all electronic components of a data, telecommunications, or process-control system.