Sharon has 21+ years of experience as a qualified Emergency Care Nurse registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA) and 12+ years as a First Aid Trainer.
She takes pride in FirstAidPro making first aid training available, comprehensive and affordable to everybody.
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You might think your workplace is safe, but accidents can happen in an instant and electrical injuries can be particularly devastating. That’s why it’s vital to be prepared with essential tips for handling electric shock emergencies. By understanding the right steps to take, you’ll be better equipped to save lives and minimise damage when disaster strikes.
So, what exactly should you do when faced with an electrical injury at work? The answer may surprise you, and it could make all the difference in a critical moment.
Key Takeaways
• Assess the scene for safety hazards and further electrical risks before approaching the victim to prevent further accidents.
• Immediately disconnect the power source to stop the flow of electricity.
• Check the victim’s vital signs and begin CPR if necessary.
• Treat burns with cool water and cover with sterile, non-adhesive bandages.
• Call emergency medical services promptly and provide clear information about the incident.
Assess the Scene for Electrical Safety
Before approaching any electrical injury scene, you must conduct a rapid and thorough safety assessment to identify potential hazards. This vital step, known as scene evaluation, guarantees your safety and that of others present.
Begin by visually scanning the area for obvious dangers such as live wires, sparks, or smoke. Don’t rush in; take a moment to fully comprehend the situation.
Next, implement established safety protocols. Check for any ongoing electrical current by looking for signs of arcing or buzzing sounds. If possible, locate and shut off the power source immediately. Be aware of potential secondary hazards like fires, structural damage, or chemical spills that may have resulted from the electrical incident. Don’t forget to assess environmental factors such as wet surfaces or conductive materials nearby.
Always prioritise personal protective equipment (PPE) before entering the scene. This may include insulated gloves, rubber-soled shoes, and safety goggles. Remember, your safety is paramount; you can’t help others if you become a victim yourself.
If you’re unsure about the safety of the scene or lack proper training, don’t hesitate to wait for professional help. Proper scene assessment can mean the difference between life and death in electrical emergencies.
Disconnect Power Source Immediately
Swiftly disconnecting the power source is your top priority when responding to an electrical injury incident. Adhering to established safety protocols, you must act decisively to prevent further harm.
Locate the main power switch or circuit breaker immediately and shut it off. If you’re unsure of its location, consult your workplace’s power management diagram or contact the facilities team urgently.
In cases where the main switch is inaccessible, look for local disconnects near the accident site. These could be plugs, fuses, or secondary breakers. If safe to do so, unplug the equipment involved in the incident.
Never attempt to move or touch a victim who’s still in contact with an electrical source.
For high-voltage scenarios, such as those involving power lines or industrial equipment, don’t approach the area. Instead, contact emergency services and your organisation’s electrical specialists immediately. They have the expertise and specialised equipment to handle such situations safely.
Check Victim's Vital Signs
After disconnecting the power source, immediately assess the victim’s essential signs to determine their current condition and the level of medical intervention required. This important sign assessment is a critical step in your injury response protocol.
Begin by checking for consciousness. If the victim is unresponsive, call for emergency medical services right away.
Next, check for breathing. Look for chest movement, listen for breath sounds, and feel for air from the nose or mouth. If there’s no breathing, start CPR immediately.
Check the victim’s pulse at the carotid artery in the neck. If there’s no pulse, continue CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available.
Assess the victim’s skin colour and temperature. Pale, cool, or clammy skin may indicate shock. Look for visible injuries, burns, or bleeding.
Don’t move the victim unless they’re in immediate danger, as this could worsen potential spinal injuries. Monitor essential signs continuously until professional help arrives.
Treat Burns and Injuries
Electrical injuries often result in two primary types of burns: thermal burns from the heat generated by the current and electrical burns from the current passing through body tissues. When treating these injuries, it’s essential to apply proper first aid techniques immediately.
Begin by carefully removing any clothing or jewellery near the burn site, unless it’s stuck to the skin.
For burn treatment, follow these steps:
- Cool the burn by running cool (not cold) water over it for at least 10 minutes, or until the pain subsides.
- Cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth to protect it from infection.
- Avoid applying ointments, butter, or ice directly to the burn, as these can cause further damage.
For electrical burns, be aware that the injury may be more severe than it appears on the surface. These burns can cause internal damage to organs and tissues.
Monitor the victim closely for signs of shock, such as pale, cool, and clammy skin, rapid breathing, or loss of consciousness. If shock symptoms appear, lay the person flat, elevate their feet, and keep them warm until professional medical help arrives.
Call Emergency Medical Services
In cases of severe electrical injury, you must immediately contact emergency medical services to guarantee prompt professional care and potentially life-saving treatment. Don’t hesitate to call 000 or your local emergency number, even if you’re unsure about the severity of the injury. Time is critical in electrical accidents, and professional medical assessment is crucial.
When calling emergency services, provide clear and concise information about the incident. State your location, the number of victims, and the nature of the electrical injury. Describe any visible burns, loss of consciousness, or irregular breathing. If possible, inform the dispatcher about the voltage involved and whether the power source has been disconnected.
While waiting for emergency responders, continue administering first aid as needed. Monitor the victim’s essential signs and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary. Don’t move the injured person unless they’re in immediate danger.
Keep the area clear for the emergency response team and make sure someone is available to guide them to the exact location. Remember, your quick action in calling for professional help can greatly impact the outcome for electrical injury victims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common electrical hazards in the workplace?
Common electrical hazards in every workplace include exposed wires, overloaded circuits, improperly installed electrical equipment, and damaged electrical cords and electrical components. These hazards can lead to electrical shock, fires, or other serious incidents.
How can I prevent workplace electrical injuries?
To prevent workplace electrical injuries, ensure regular inspections of electrical equipment, use cords that are in good condition, and implement a risk assessment to identify potential electrical hazards. Proper training for employees is also crucial.
How do I conduct a risk assessment for electrical safety?
To conduct a risk assessment for electrical safety, identify your electrical system and all equipment, evaluate their condition, and check for potential electrical hazards. Compile a list of hazards and determine control measures to mitigate risks.
