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Taping the connections of an outlet in a metal handy box is a safety measure that helps prevent several potential hazards. Here's why it's important:

1. Preventing Short Circuits
- Exposed Metal: The screws and terminals on outlets are often exposed. If these come into contact with the metal box, it can create a short circuit.
- Tape Insulation: Wrapping electrical tape around the outlet’s terminals helps insulate the connections, reducing the risk of accidental contact between the metal parts and the metal box.

2. Protecting Against Electrical Arcs
- Electrical Arcs: An arc is a discharge of electricity that can occur if there is a gap between connections or if something conductive gets too close to live parts. Arcs can cause sparks, heat, and potentially fires.
- Tape Barrier: Electrical tape provides an extra layer of insulation to minimize the risk of arcing between the outlet’s terminals and the metal box.

3. Preventing Accidental Contact
- Human Contact: During maintenance or troubleshooting, there is a risk of accidentally touching live parts if they are exposed. This can lead to electric shock.
- Covering Connections: Taping the terminals ensures that the live parts are less likely to be accidentally touched by anyone working near or inside the box.

4. Enhancing Durability and Reliability
- Mechanical Movement: Over time, wires can shift or vibrate slightly due to various factors like plugging and unplugging devices or structural movement. Taped connections are more secure and less likely to loosen.
- Maintaining Connection Integrity: By taping the connections, you help ensure that the wires remain securely attached to the terminals, maintaining a reliable electrical connection.

How to Tape the Connections Properly
- Wrap Each Terminal: Use high-quality electrical tape to wrap each terminal screw individually, ensuring that no bare metal is exposed.
- Cover Entire Outlet: You can also wrap the entire outlet (once each terminal is covered) to add an additional layer of insulation.
- Check for Sharp Edges: Ensure that the edges of the metal box are not sharp and won’t cut through the tape over time.

Additional Safety Measures
- Use Plastic Boxes: For an added layer of safety, consider using plastic (non-metallic) outlet boxes instead of metal ones, especially in situations where metal boxes might pose a greater risk of short circuits.
- Grounding: Ensure that the metal box and all metal parts are properly grounded. This provides a path for any stray electrical current to safely return to the ground, reducing the risk of electric shock.

While taping connections adds an extra level of safety, always ensure that electrical installations follow local codes and standards. When in doubt, consult a licensed electrician to ensure that your work is safe and compliant.