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600 Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health
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Electrical Safety

Wet Condition Hazards

Working in wet conditions is hazardous because you may become an easy path for electrical current. For instance, if you touch a live wire while standing in even a puddle of water, you will probably receive a shock. Damaged insulation, equipment, or tools can expose you to live electrical parts. A damaged tool may not be grounded properly, so the housing of the tool may be energized, causing you to receive a shock. Improperly grounded metal switch plates and ceiling lights are especially hazardous in wet conditions.

Wet conditions create an easy path for electrical current.

If you touch a live electrical component with a non-insulated hand tool, you are more likely to receive a shock when standing in water. Remember, you don't have to be standing in water to be electrocuted. Wet clothing, high humidity, and perspiration also increase your chances of being electrocuted. You need to recognize that all wet conditions are hazards.

You don't have to be standing in water to be electrocuted.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-13. Why are wet conditions considered hazardous in terms of electrical safety?