Focus Four Toolbox Talks, Module 4 – Electrocutions, Talk #4 – Helping an Electrocuted Worker

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IUOE National Training Fund

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.

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.