How Does Electrical Shock Occur and How Can It Be Prevented?

An electrical shock happens when the human body comes into contact with a live electrical source, allowing electricity to flow through it. This occurs when a person becomes part of the electrical circuit by touching a live wire, damaged electrical equipment, or an improperly grounded appliance.

Factors that Influence How Shock Occurs

Here are the key factors that affect how the shock occurs:

Voltage: The higher the voltage, the more likely a serious shock will occur.

Current (Amperage): Even low currents can cause harm, particularly when they pass through vital organs.

Contact Path: If the current passes through critical parts of the body like the heart, it can lead to severe injuries or death.

Duration: The longer the exposure to electricity, the greater the risk of injury.

For instance, a person could be shocked when they touch a live electrical outlet or an exposed wire while standing on a wet surface, increasing the conductivity of their body and the severity of the shock.

How Can Electrical Shock Be Prevented?

Taking the following steps can help dramatically reduce the risk of a shock from occurring in your workplace, keeping your employees safe and your facility protected:

Ensure Proper Installation: Always hire a licensed electrician to install electrical systems.

Use PPE: Wear insulated gloves and rubber boots when working with electricity.

Electrical Safety Program: A formal safety program is essential, outlining safety principles, policies, and procedures to protect workers from electrical hazards like shock.

Everyone in the workplace must be aware of the serious hazards electricity poses. Electrical shocks may seem minor, but with high-voltage equipment, they can be deadly.