Summary Statement
A toolbox talk on ways that you can help an electrocuted worker. Includes questions to ask, an incident to discuss with images, and a place to record questions the trainer would like to ask about the incident. Part of a collection. Click on the 'collection' button to access the other items.
How can you help an electrocuted worker?
Ask the following questions and give time for answers.
- What are the hazards? Bodily contact with electricity, persons giving aid may themselves become electrocution victims
- What are the results? Shock, fire, burns, falls or death
- What should we look for? Victim near electrical source, in wet conditions, damaged electrical tool or components, unable to “let go” and/or communicate
Relate this incident or, better, one you know. Ask for lessons that can be drawn.
Actual Incident: In 2001, an 18-year-old construction materials technician was electrocuted while driving an ATV that contacted a power line. Co-workers left the victim alone until he could be safely removed from the vehicle.
Ask the following question and ensure every item is covered.
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How do we aid an electrocuted worker?
- Get proper training on how to assist a worker who has been electrocuted.
- Look first, don’t touch; you may get electrocuted.
- Shut off source of electricity or move source or person away with a non-conducting object.
- Get EMS to the scene.
- Do not touch burns if possible. Perform first aid/CPR/AED, if certified. If not certified, consider taking a first aid/CPR/AED course through the IUOE, local Red Cross or hospital.
Ask the following questions about this site and ensure every item is covered.
Let’s talk about this site now.
- Who knows the risks factors for electrocution? Power lines, damaged tools, faulty electrical systems, etc.
- What non-conductive objects at this site could you use to aid someone who is being electrocuted?
- Have you been certified in first aid/CPR/AED. If not who on site is and how do you inform them of an accident?
Record questions below that you want to ask about this site.