The severity of electrical shock or electrocution injuries usually depends on three things: (1) the path the current travels in and through the body , (2) the amount of voltage (high-voltage versus low-voltage), and (3) the type of current (alternating current or AC versus direct current or DC).
What does electric shock depend on?
The effects of electric shock on the human body depend on the current that flows—the amperage —rather than on the force of the current, or voltage. The electrical resistance of the human body is variable and may in fact alter considerably during the passage of an electric shock.
What are four common hazards leading to electrical shock?
Dubbed the “Fatal Four” by OSHA, they include falls, electrocutions, being struck by objects, and getting caught in or between hazards . In 2016, 63.7% of all fatalities at construction sites were from one of OSHA's Fatal Four. Today we are focusing on electrocution hazards and how to prevent and protect against them.
Electrical burns are the most common shock-related, nonfatal injury. They occur when a worker contacts energized electrical wiring or equipment. Although electrical burns can occur anywhere on the body, they most often occur on the hands and feet.
What determines the severity of an electrical shock volts or amps?
The electric current in amperes is the most important physiological varible which determines the severity of an electric shock. However, this current is in turn determined by the driving voltage and the resistance of the path which the current follows through the body.
What level of electric shock requires prompt medical attention?
For high-voltage shocks ( over 500 volts or a lightning strike) call 911. If you or the patient is unsure of the voltage exposure, seek medical care.
Can you have a delayed reaction to an electric shock?
Symptoms include burns, loss of consciousness and trouble breathing . Delayed electric shock symptoms pose a serious challenge for electric shock victims because they prevent victims from obtaining the prompt medical treatment and care they need. Such delays can have harmful, long-term effects on victims' health.
What is the most common OSHA electrical violation?
According to OSHA's top ten most cited safety violations in 2020, the most frequently cited electrical violation was the inability to control hazardous energy . In the industrial world, controlling hazardous energy is bundled together with the use of a Lockout Tagout program.
What are 3 things to avoid when working around an electrical hazard?
- Avoid water at all times when working with electricity. ...
- Never use equipment with frayed cords, damaged insulation or broken plugs.
- If you are working on any receptacle at your home then always turn off the mains. ...
- Always use insulated tools while working.
What are the 3 main electrical hazards?
- electric shock and burns from contact with live parts.
- injury from exposure to arcing, fire from faulty electrical equipment or installations.
- explosion caused by unsuitable electrical apparatus or static electricity igniting flammable vapours or dusts, for example in a spray paint booth.
What can lower the amount of current needed to cause electricity induced injury?
Which of the following can lower the amount of current needed to cause electricity-induced injury? ... The length of time the body remains in contact with an electrical current .
What's the minimum voltage at which serious electric shock can occur?
The human body has an inherent high resistance to electric current, which means without sufficient voltage a dangerous amount of current cannot flow through the body and cause injury or death. As a rough rule of thumb, more than fifty volts is sufficient to drive a potentially lethal current through the body.
What degree of burn is caused by electric shock?
Like other burns, electrical burns have 3 degrees of severity, each with distinctive symptoms: First-degree burns —Injury is only to the outer layer of skin. They are red and painful, and may cause some swelling.
Why do I keep getting electric shocks?
Static shocks are more common when it's cold and dry. This dry, cold air holds less water vapour than warm summer air. ... So, when you touch something like a metal doorknob or car door, those extra electrons will rapidly leave your body and give you the shock.
How do you know if your electric shock is serious?
- loss of consciousness.
- muscle spasms.
- numbness or tingling.
- breathing problems.
- headache.
- problems with vision or hearing.
- burns.
- seizures.
When should I be concerned about electric shock?
Following a low-voltage shock , go to the emergency department for the following concerns : Any noticeable burn to the skin. Any period of unconsciousness. Any numbness, tingling, paralysis, vision, hearing, or speech problems.
