What are the various types of electrical injuries?

Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the dangers and risks of electrical accidents at home and in their work environment. These four types of electrical injuries – as classified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – may lead to high medical bills and other damages: burns, falls, electrical shock and electrocution. They all may lead to death, but electrocution is always fatal.

Types of Electrical Injuries

Burns – Burns occur when the body comes into direct contact with an electrical source. Even if the burn looks minor, the internal damage may be severe. The muscles and internal organs such as the heart and brain could be damaged. It is important not to apply anything to a burn until medical attention is sought.

Falls – Falls from electrical accidents are often work-related. These can occur when an employee is working on a power line or cutting trees near a power line and experiences an electrical injury that causes him or her to fall. Depending on how far the person falls, these types of injuries can be deadly.

Electrical shock – This occurs when a person comes into contact with a source of electricity, and the electrical energy flows through his or her body. The injuries can range from minor to life-threatening. Electrical shock can lead to burns.

Electrocution – Electrocution refers to an electrical shock powerful enough to stop the heart and cause death. The brain is also susceptible to electrocution. Electrocution may occur, depending on how the electricity travels in the body.

Symptoms of Electrical Injuries

The symptoms of electrical injuries depend on your health, the source’s voltage and how long you were in contact with the electrical source. Electrical accidents can cause burns, seizures, broken bones (due to falls), unconsciousness, sensory problems and heart problems.

If you were injured in an accident in Aurora resulting from another’s negligence, contact a personal injury attorney at the Law Office of D.J. Banovitz. Be sure to request your free booklet, 7 Costly Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Colorado Injury Case, and call 1-303-300-5060 to go over the type of electrical injury that you sustained due to negligence.