Electric shock incident
- Safety Flash
- Published on 20 March 2015
- Generated on 4 July 2025
- IMCA SF 04/15
- 2 minute read
A Member has reported an incident in which a ship’s electrician received a 220V AC shock.
What happened?
The incident occurred when working on a 24V remote input/output (RIO) module on joy-stick electrical equipment. The electric shock was transmitted from the left hand to right hand due to the fact that the path of least resistance was across the body and to ground through the factory fitted anti-static earth strap. The electrician suffered minor burns to the left hand.
Instrument cabinet
Anti-static earth strap
Module that was to be replaced
White cable that touched the electricians hand causing electric shock
Our member noted the following:
- Live conductors should not be present at worksites if the correct controls are in place, and advice from the manufacturers of electrical equipment is always properly followed.
- Personal risk assessments were not adequate due to complacency in the task to be undertaken.
- Harm could be caused to any person when they are exposed to ‘live parts’ that are either touched directly or indirectly by means of some conducting object or material.
- Damage could be caused to electronic equipment when they are exposed to ‘live parts’ that are either touched directly or indirectly by means of some conducting object or material.
- As part of the isolation process the equipment had to be checked to ensure electrical energy had been isolated or disconnected from its source, this should be done using a voltage tester/probe and compatible proving unit.
- Although electrical tasks are undertaken on all members’ worksites on a regular basis, this incident acts as a reminder that live parts normal mains voltage, 230V AC, can cause; electrical burns, permanent injury and electric shocks, which can prove to be fatal.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 15/14
8 September 2014
-
IMCA SF 08/11
27 July 2011
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.