How we determine it here is simple, if it is not connected to an electric appliance it is not
likely to be energized.
It could be be energized but it is not likely.
Each area has their own way and here we do not bond gas pipes except by the EGC of equipment connected to it.
If the service neutral opens do you really want the gas piping at an elevated voltage, subjecting gas workers to a shock?
Another question:
Why do you suppose the NEC even put the words "may become energized" in this section if they meant all metal piping systems must always be bonded?
To each their own.
Bob
[This message has been edited by iwire (edited 09-11-2004).]