Controlling Electrical Hazards
Primary Protective Measures
The primary protective measures against electric shock in healthcare environments are insulation and isolation of live electrical parts. Here’s how these measures are applied:
Insulation that is defective or inadequate is an electrical hazard.
Insulation
- Medical equipment such as infusion pumps, ventilators, and ECG machines have power cords and internal wiring covered with insulation to prevent exposure to live electrical parts.
- Patient monitoring devices are designed with insulated leads and electrodes to ensure electrical current remains within safe pathways during operation.
- Extension cords may have damaged insulation. When insulation is damaged, exposed metal parts may become energized if live wires contact one another.
Isolation
- Isolation transformers are commonly used in operating rooms and critical care units to separate the medical electrical system from the main power grid, reducing the risk of shock to patients and staff.
- Hospital-grade outlets and enclosures are designed to prevent accidental contact with live electrical components, even during maintenance or cleaning.
- Medical equipment is often mounted on non-conductive carts or stands, ensuring physical separation from grounded surfaces and reducing the risk of unintended electrical contact.
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1-2. What are the primary protective measures used to prevent electrical contact and injury?
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