Most toasters are not grounded because they are designed to be "double insulated" appliances. Double insulation is a safety feature that provides protection against electric shock without the need for grounding. This design eliminates the reliance on an electrical ground connection to ensure user safety.
In a double-insulated toaster, all the electrical components and conductive parts that could potentially come into contact with users or other objects are enclosed in two layers of insulating material. These layers provide a barrier to prevent any electrical current from reaching the outer surface of the toaster or other exposed parts.
By using double insulation, manufacturers can make toasters safer and more reliable without requiring a grounding connection. This design is particularly important for small kitchen appliances like toasters, where there is an increased risk of spills and water splashing, which could lead to electrical hazards if the toaster were not properly insulated.
Even though double insulation significantly reduces the risk of electric shock, it is essential always to use kitchen appliances, including toasters, with care and avoid exposing them to water or conductive materials like metal objects (e.g., forks) to prevent accidents. Safety measures and guidelines provided in the toaster's user manual should always be followed to minimize any potential risks.