Whether you work in heavy construction, renovation, or mining industries, you may be exposed to an increased risk of electric shock and electrocution. This involves workers that might be working around power lines, transformers, as well as various types of electric equipment. Even if all precaution measures are strictly followed, there’s at least a small chance of sustaining an electric shock. This is why security protocols need to be followed and staff must wear proper gear in the vicinity of electricity supply lines.
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What is the most common electricity-related direct injury?
Burns that result from electric shock can be a cause for major reconstructive surgery and cause permanent disability. These are most common with high-voltage electric shocks that might result from direct contact with electricity supplies if the current flows for more than a few fractions per second. There’s also a risk of visceral injury, which can lead to internal bleeding, loss of function of certain organs, and potentially fatal outcome. This is why, even with seemingly mild electric shocks, you need to seek immediate medical attention.
What industry has the highest risk of electrocutions?
Workers that work in excavation and mining are frequently at risk of being electrocuted, especially when they are working in close vicinity to underground power cords or defective equipment. These jobs prescribe stringent security protocols when it comes to electrocution and inspections are warranted to ensure that work sites are safe and operating in line with the highest standards. Nevertheless, accidents might still happen due to a variety of uncontrollable factors.
What is a mild electric shock?
What you may define as a mild electric shock produces burns on the skin. This may range from mild to severe. On the other hand, high-voltage shocks can produce internal injuries that would require urgent medical attention, which usually requires surgery and long-term recovery. Aside from burns, there’s a risk of brain damage, damaged peripheral nerves, muscle spasms, cardiac arrest, and even death.
How are electric shocks treated?
When a person survives an electric shock or electrocution, the injuries are treated in a variety of ways, depending on the severity. Your treatment might include:
- pain medication
- burn treatment, including the application of sterile dressings and application of antibiotics; severe burns may require skin transplants or grafts
- intravenous fluids, which might include vitamins
- a tetanus shot, depending on the nature of the environment where the shock occurred.
Can you get compensated for a work-related electric shock?
If you sustain an injury from an exposed live wire or defective electric equipment while performing your everyday work duties, you don’t have to bear the expenses of your medical recovery yourself. While you may blame your employer for not providing adequate equipment, warnings, or training to prevent such issues, keep in mind that you are covered by workers’ compensation insurance, which is a no-fault system.
You will receive partial compensation for the loss of income and full reimbursement for your medical bills. Unfortunately, many insurance companies might try to take advantage of your situation and try to reduce the time you need to reach full recovery. This is why having experienced legal aid in your corner is of great importance. An attorney that is skilled in workers’ compensation law will be able to gather all the relevant documents and defend your electric shock injury claim in front of your employer, insurance carrier, and the workers’ compensation judge, and provide you with the best possible outcome.
