When a tank vehicle is equipped with grounding and bonding cables, what hazard are properly working cables intended to control during applicable flammable-liquid transfers?
Correct answer: C – Static discharge that could ignite vapors
The Massachusetts CDL manual says equipped grounding and bonding cables must work. Federal hazardous-materials rules require electrical bonding or grounding during specified Class 3 transfers to control possible static charges and guard against vapor ignition from static discharge. For open-hole cargo-tank loading, the electrical connection must be established before opening the filling hole and remain until it is closed.
Source: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, Commercial Driver’s License Manual – Modernized Testing System — § 8.1.2, “Check Special Purpose Equipment”, 49 CFR § 177.837(b)–(c) – Class 3 (Flammable Liquid) Materials

