Electric shock Take extreme caution before approaching the patient

Effects of contact with low/high-voltage electric current

Electrical shock occurs when the body is in contact with any source of electricity that causes a current through the skin. When current passes through the body it has the potential to cause respiratory dysfunction and cardiac arrest. A shock from AC current causes the muscles to suffer spasms, which prevent the patient from disconnecting from the electrical source.

The resistance of the human body differs from person to person and wet or broken skin may drop the resistance substantially.

Contact with high voltage Treatment

In the event of a low-voltage incident 1. Switch power source off and unplug the appliance at the socket. 2. Ensure the scene is safe. 3. Once you are confident that the power source is switched off, check victim’s ABC (airway, breathing, circulation). 4. If the patient is breathing, treat other injuries and place in the recovery position. 5. Call for the emergency services. In the event of a high-voltage incident: 1. Stay at a distance of 18 metres and immediately contact the emergency services (112 or 999) and the ESB on 1850 372 999. 2. Ensure that any bystanders also stand at a distance of 18 metres away until the emergency services and the ESB arrive at the scene.