How to avoid electrocution on the job
Some jobs carry a higher risk of injury or death from electrical hazards than others. Workers in the construction and trade industries and electricians and their apprentices can sustain serious or fatal injuries from contact with electricity.
What you may find surprising is that 28 percent of on-the-job electrical-related deaths in 2017 were linked to professional and business-related services, according to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). Workers in non-trade businesses often are unaware of the dangers of electricity in their workplace.
What are the types of electrical accidents on the job?
According to the National Center for Biological Information, electrical injuries are common and are associated with a high rate of death. People who survive electrical accidents often face a difficult recovery because of damage to internal organs.
Types of electrical burns include:
- Electric shock: When current passes through the body, which may result in damage to internal organs, muscles, nerves and soft tissue.
- Flash injury: When an electrical arc passes over the skin and does not enter the body.
- Flame injury: When an arc flash ignites clothing or other objects and causes a fire.
- Low voltage injury: An electrical burn caused by a power source of 500 volts or less.
- High voltage injury: An electrical burn caused by a high voltage power source and often associated with electricity passing through the individual’s entire body.
What is electrocution?
An electrocution is a type of fatal injury caused by electric shock, or current passing through the body. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) lists electrocution accidents as one of the top four fatal injuries for construction workers.
Common electrocution hazards on job sites include:
- Exposed wiring
- Wet conditions while outlets are exposed
- Overhead or buried power lines
When working around electricity, it’s important to take steps to stay safe. OSHA recommends employers and workers:
- Identify utilities before starting work.
- Check for overhead power lines when operating equipment.
- Keep a safe distance from power lines.
- Do not use portable electrical tools unless they are grounded or double insulated.
- Use ground fault circuit interrupters for protection.
- Be aware of possible electrical hazards when working with ladders, scaffolds or other platforms.
What to do after an electrical injury or electrocution
Nobody expects to suffer an electrical accident or electrocution while working. I you were injured, however, you will need to be prepared to take action. Remain calm, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. In some cases, victims go into shock and don’t realize they have been seriously injured. It’s critical to consult with a medical professional.
Victims injured at work will need to file a workers’ compensation claim to recover losses. Workers’ comp will cover medical bills and lost wages, among other benefits.
If a third party (an entity other than your employer) was negligent, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
Electrical accidents can become complex legal cases. A third-party may deny any responsibility. An employer and their insurance company may downplay the severity of the injuries.
Schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected. Contact the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl. Trust us to handle your claim while you focus on your recovery.