Common Electrical Hazards

Practice flashcards covering common electrical hazards, their definitions, types of burns and shocks, arc flash, static electricity, and preventive measures.

What are electrical hazards?

Dangerous situations caused by electricity that can lead to electric shock, burns, fires, or explosions, occurring when electrical systems are poorly maintained, improperly handled, or exposed to unsafe conditions.

What defines an electric shock hazard?

An electric shock hazard occurs when a person comes into contact with an electrical energy source, causing current to pass through the body.

What three factors determine the severity of an electric shock?

Voltage, current, and duration of exposure.

What is the difference between direct and indirect contact in electric shock hazards?

Direct contact involves touching exposed live wires or faulty equipment, while indirect contact involves touching conductive surfaces (like metal casings) that have become energized due to poor insulation.

How do wet conditions affect the severity of electric shocks?

Water lowers resistance, making shocks more severe.

What is an electrical burn?

An injury caused when electrical current passes through the body, generating intense heat that damages tissues and often causing deep internal damage even if the skin injury looks small.

What are contact burns?

Burns that occur when the body directly contacts an electrical source, completing a circuit.

What are arc burns?

Burns that happen when electricity jumps through the air between conductors, producing intense heat and light without direct contact.

What causes thermal burns in electrical hazards?

Thermal burns result when electrical energy ignites nearby materials, including clothing and flammable substances.

What is an electrical fire hazard?

A hazard arising when electrical systems or devices overheat, spark, or ignite flammable materials, which can spread quickly and are often hidden inside walls or equipment.

What happens during an arc flash hazard?

Electricity suddenly jumps through the air between conductors or from a conductor to the ground, producing an intense burst of heat, light, and pressure.

What injuries can an arc flash cause?

Severe burns, blindness, hearing damage, and even death.

When does static electricity pose a significant hazard?

When electrical charges build up on surfaces and suddenly discharge, igniting flammable vapors, dust, or gases, which leads to fires or explosions.

What are five key preventive measures against electrical hazards?

Regular inspections of wiring, plugs, and equipment; using proper insulation and replacing damaged cables immediately; installing circuit breakers and fuses rated correctly; keeping equipment dry and avoiding wet areas; and worker training and awareness.