3-prong outlets without the ground-wire connected are VERY common in older buildings and completely up to code as long as the outlet is clearly labelled as lacking a ground (usually done with a sticker). If you truly suspect grounding to be a legitimate issue, the correct course of action would be to request the outlet be replaced with a GFCI outlet which will pop the moment a short circuit condition exists - but this outlet will also need to be clearly labelled as lacking a ground.