What Should I Know About Electricity in the Workplace?
Anybody who works around electricity in the workplace could come in contact with the dangers of such. Any voltages over 50 volts AC is considered to be life-threatening. Each year, about 1,000 accidents at work involve electric shocks, with around 30 of these being fatal. Many of these shocks are due to faulty equipment in the workplace and can cause severe and permanent injury to employees. Many workers who are exposed to electricity can be in danger, including maintenance staff, those working in an electrical plant, around machinery, and more. Many accidents take place because a worker is not properly trained to work around electricity, do not have appropriate equipment, or work around equipment that is thought to be dead.
Injuries Stemming From Electrical Currents
Four injuries can stem from electrical accidents, including electrocution, electric shock, burns, and falls. Here are some common injuries that somebody may experience when they come into contact with electricity:
- Electrical current may travel through the body from a shock, which can interfere with normal electrical signals and lead to a heart stopping or muscle spasms.
- Thermal burns can happen due to electric arc. Internal tissues can be burned even though only small injuries occur on the skin.
- Arc flash can lead to damage to the eyes.
- Muscle contractions from being startled can lead to an employee falling, which also causes serious injuries.
Legal Duties in the Workplace
Employers must ensure safety of their employees in the workplace when working around electricity. According to the Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989, there are some precautions that must be taken. For instance, employers must have electrical systems constructed in a way that prevents danger, maintain electrical systems at all times, and work on electrical systems to prevent danger. If you have been injured in an accident due to electricity and have a personal injury claim, speak to us today about what options you have and how we can help. Call us for more information at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi today.
