Final answer:
An electrical shock happens when electric current flows through the body, and its severity can range from mild to lethal. Insulating shoes and precautionary work practices are crucial for preventing electrical hazards. Maintenance of electrical equipment reduces the risk of shock and thermal hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
An electrical shock occurs when electric current flows through the body. This can happen due to direct contact with electrical energy, creating a pathway for the current to pass through a person and potentially cause serious injury or even death. Our bodies are good conductors of electricity largely because of the water content, and current will flow through the paths of least resistance towards the earth, which is considered a natural electron sink. The severity of an electrical shock can range from a mild tingling sensation to a life-threatening event, and it is influenced by the magnitude of the current, the path it takes through the body, and the duration of exposure.
It's important to follow safety precautions when working with or near electrical power to prevent providing a pathway for electric current. These precautions include wearing insulating shoes to resist electrical flow through the feet and using one hand while working with electrical tools to reduce the risk of the current passing across the heart.
Equipment not kept in good working condition or having a ground fault can facilitate electrical shocks, highlighting the necessity for properly maintaining and handling electrical devices to ensure safety. Systems and devices that prevent electrical hazards include fuses, circuit breakers, insulation, and other safety mechanisms designed to limit excessive current and avoid the risks of both thermal and shock hazards.