Electrical Emergencies
Electrical Safety Quick Links
What to Do In an Electrical Emergency
In the event of an electrical incident involving personal injury, the first and most important action that can be taken is to activate the emergency response system by calling 911.
Employees performing work on, or associated with, exposed electrical systems or equipment energized at 50 volts or more must be trained in first aid/CPR.
Methods of release for victims possibly in contact with live electrical include:
- DO NOT TOUCH THE VICTIM.
- Turn the power off immediately.
- Once you are certain that the person is no longer energized, you may begin first aid or CPR if you are trained and 911 has been called.
- Try not to move the victim unless absolutely necessary.
- If the person is breathing and injuries have been taken care of, keep the person lying down, with feet elevated 8-12 inches off of the floor, and lightly covered.
Have a bystander or another employee meet the rescue squad upon their arrival and brief them on the situation. Clear the area so that rescue personnel has access to the site.
Where rescue hooks or other energized emergency/rescue equipment is available, contact Environmental Health and Safety at 540-231-2341 for review.
Contact Information
Robin McCall-Miller, Occupational Safety Program Manager
- Call: 540-231-2341
- Email: rmmiller@vt.edu