What Does
Electrical Shock Mean?
An electrical shock is a physical reaction to electrical currents passing through the body. They range from almost imperceptible reactions to highly dangerous shocks that can affect the heart muscle and cause tissue damage. In severe cases, this may be fatal.
The prevention of electrical shocks is accomplished through shock hazard analysis. In general, fatal or serious shocks are most often sustained by personnel who fail to comply with safety regulations surrounding the de-energization of electrical components prior to maintenance activities. Arc flash hazard analysis determines how electrical equipment will respond in the event of a short-circuit. Arc blast hazard analysis seeks to identify the circumstances in which a blast could take place as well as the blast pressure it will create.
Safeopedia Explains Electrical Shock
Hundreds of workers die every year from fatal electrical shocks. Health and safety professionals are required to ensure compliance with government regulations pertaining to electrical safety as well as ensuring that staff are properly trained in safety procedures.
An electrical safe work practices policy should be created and it should be reviewed and updated regularly. This should include identification of personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to avert or mitigate the effects of electric shock in the workplace. PPE are not effective in the event of an arc blast, but workplaces should be designed with the possibility of such blasts in mind and attempt to minimize potential injury through work station design.