Washington State University
SAFETY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL

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First Aid for Electrical Shock

Rescuers should act quickly but carefully in order to protect themselves from electrical contact. DO NOT directly touch a victim who is part of an electric circuit.

Remove the victim from the electrical circuit. Time is important.

If possible, shut off the power to the victim. Pull the plug or turn off the switch.

If high voltage is involved call 911 and request that the electric power be shut off.

If power shut-off is not possible, only trained emergency response personnel with appropriate personal protective equipment are to move a victim out of an electrical circuit.

The victim may be experiencing electric shock. Symptoms include:

• Sudden loss of consciousness.
  
  
• Absence of respiration.
  
  
• Weak pulse or absence of pulse.
  
  
• Probable burns (internal and/or external).

After removing the victim from the circuit, apply CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if breathing and heart action are affected. Do not delay. Continue CPR until heart and lungs are functioning normally or until emergency personnel have arrived.

If another person is available have him or her call 911 and request medical assistance. The caller is to explain what happened so that proper equipment can be brought to the accident. After the call is completed, the other person should assist with CPR if qualified.