We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

115 Electrical Safety for Employees: Basic
Skip to main content

Burns

Burns are the most common shock-related injury. An electrical accident can result in an electrical burn, arc burn, thermal contact burn, or a combination of burns.

This is an image of a third degree electrical burn.

Electrical burns are among the most serious burns and require immediate medical attention. These burns happen when an electric current passes through body tissues or bones, generating heat that causes tissue damage.

Arc or flash burns are caused by the high temperatures resulting from an electric arc or explosion near the body. It's important that these burns receive prompt medical treatment.

Thermal contact burns occur when skin comes into contact with the hot surfaces of overheated electrical conductors, conduits, or other energized equipment. Additionally, thermal burns can result from clothing catching fire, which can happen during the production of an electric arc.

In addition to shock and burn hazards, electricity poses other dangers. For example, arcs that result from short circuits can cause injury or start a fire. Extremely high-energy arcs can damage equipment, causing fragmented metal to fly in all directions. Even low-energy arcs can cause violent explosions in atmospheres that contain flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts.

Real-Life Accidents

At 11:55 a.m. on February 28, 2022, an employee and a coworker were sent out to restore power to two electrical transformers (one was a 25kv-277/480 (low side) and the other a 25kv (high side) transformer). The coworker used a bucket truck to remove and replace two blown fuses on a riser pole. Once completed, the coworker lowered himself while in the bucket. The employee, however, mistakenly used a low-voltage meter to check the high voltage transformer. This created an arc flash and the employee was hospitalized to treat third degree burns to the arms and face.
At 2:30 p.m. on December 29, 2021, two employees worked to install a utility pole. At some point, an energized power transmission line contacted the boom that Employee #1, working as a lineman, stood in while working. The current traveled into the bucket truck where Employee #2, working as a foreman, who received an electric shock, and third degree burns to the chest and legs. The powerline then re-contacted the bucket and created an arc flash that caused third degree burns to Employee #1's face and chest. Employee #1 received CPR onsite, and both were hospitalized to treat their injuries.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-6. What are the most common injuries due to shock-related electrical hazards?