Introduction to Health and Safety at Work

Introduction to Health and Safety at Work
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12.3.2 Treatment of electric shock and burns
There are many excellent posters available which illus-
trate a fi rst-aid procedure for treating electric shock and 
such posters should be positioned close to electrical 
junction boxes or isolation switches. The recommended 
procedure for treating an unconscious person who has 
received a 
low voltage
electric shock is as follows:
1. On 
fi nding a person suffering from electric shock, 
raise the alarm by calling for help from colleagues 
(including a trained fi rst aider)
2. Switch off the power if it is possible and/or the pos-
ition of the emergency isolation switch is known
3. Call for an ambulance
4. If it is not possible to switch off the power, then 
push or pull the person away from the conductor 
using an object made from a good insulator, such as 
a wooden chair or broom. Remember to stand on 
dry insulating material, for example, a wooden 
pallet, rubber mat or wooden box. If these precau-
tions are not taken, then the rescuer will also be 
electrocuted
5. If the person is breathing, place them in the recov-
ery position so that an open airway is maintained 
and the mouth can drain if necessary
6. If the person is not breathing apply mouth-to-mouth 
resuscitation and, in the absence of a pulse, chest 
compressions. When the person is breathing nor-
mally place them in the recovery position
7. Treat any burns by placing a sterile dressing over 
the burn and secure with a bandage. Any loose skin 
or blisters should not be touched nor any lotions or 
ointments applied to the burn wound
8. If the person regains consciousness, treat for nor-
mal shock
9. Remain with the person until they are taken to a 
hospital or local surgery.
It is important to note that electrocution by high voltage 
electricity is normally instantly fatal. On discovering a per-
son who has been electrocuted by high voltage electri-
city, the police and electricity supply company should be 
informed. If the person remains in contact with or within 
18 m of the supply, they should not be approached to 
within 18 m by others until the supply has been switched 
off and clearance has been given by the emergency ser-
vices. High voltage electricity can ‘arc’ over distances 
less than 18 m, thus electrocuting the would-be rescuer.