Risk Potential:

Electric shock and burns may occur as a result of contact with electricity. Also, as electricity is a form of energy, injury can result from being in the proximity of electrical equipment when there is a loss of control of the energy. There may be further injury as a consequence of the impact of electricity (Ruschena, 2012, p. 4). 

There are three main types of direct electrical injuries:  

• Electrocution, which occurs when the electrical contact results in death 

• Electric shock, which occurs when there is any contact with electricity ranging from a minor ‘zap’ to non-fatal fibrillation and/or burns

• Burns, which may be either internal or external and depend on voltage, current and duration of contact.

The degree of damage depends on the strength of current flowing through the body and the contact time. (Ruschena, 2012, pp. 4-5). 

The effects of approximately AC current can be outlined as follows:

• 1mA Barely perceptible

• 16mA Maximum ‘let go’ threshold

• 20mA Paralysis of respiratory muscles

• 100mA Ventricular fibrillation threshold

• 2A Cardiac standstill and internal organ damage

Factors affecting the strength of current, and therefore severity of potential injury, are those that decrease body resistance: presence of moisture, including perspiration, wet clothing, standing in water or high humidity, metal objects worn, e.g. jewellery, watches, eyeglasses. (Ruschena, 2012, p. 5)

Potential incidents when working in the proximity of electrical apparatus:

• Arc flash and blast

• Capacitor discharge

• Induction

• Down power lines

• Plant contacting power lines

(Ruschena, 2012, pp. 6-7)