2.2.6 Dangers of Mains Electricity

• Electric Shock


  Occurs when a person comes into contact with a live electrical current, causing injury or even being fatal
• Severity of Electric Shock

  Depends on voltage, current, path through the body, and duration of exposure
• Electrical Fires

  Caused by overheating wires, faulty appliances, or short circuits, spreading quickly and causing significant damage
• Common causes of Electrical Fires

  • Overloaded circuits
  • Faulty wiring
  • Defective electrical devices
• Burns


  Can occur from contact with hot electrical components or due to arcing
• Types of Burns

  • Thermal
  • Electrical
• Short Circuit


  Occurs when there is an unintended path of low resistance, causing a large current to flow
• Consequences of a Short Circuit
• Overloading


  Happens when too many devices are connected to a single circuit, drawing more current than it can handle
• Consequences of Overloading
• Insulation

  Prevents accidental contact with live wires and protects against electric shock
• Earthing


  Provides a path for fault current to safely flow to the ground, reducing the risk of electric shock
• Fuses

  Protect circuits by breaking the circuit if the current exceeds a certain level
• Circuit Breakers

  Automatically cut off the electricity supply if there is a fault
• Residual Current Devices (RCDs)


  Detect any imbalance between live and neutral wires and cut off power supply to prevent electric shocks
• Regular Maintenance
• Avoid Water

  Water conducts electricity, increasing the risk of electric shock
• Use Appliances Correctly

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use
• Check for Damage

  Regularly inspect electrical cords and plugs for signs of damage
• Avoid Overloading Circuits

  Do not plug too many devices into a single socket
• Summary of Electric Shock
• Summary of Electrical Fires
• Summary of Burns
• Summary of Short Circuits and Overloading
• Summary of Safety Measures
• Summary of Safe Practices
• Understanding and implementing safety measures will help to prevent accidents and ensure safe use of mains electricity