(a) Voltage (not just high voltage). High voltage is voltage over 500 volts. However,
any voltage is dangerous. Voltage alone does not cause injury; it is the force that pushes current through
a circuit or a person's body.
(b) Current (the killer in electricity). The effects of current have been charted as follows:
5 milliamperes may cause an unpleasant sensation.
15 milliamperes flowing through any part of the body is considered shock potential.
70 milliamperes flowing through the heart region may cause death.
NOTE: The degree of shock depends on such things as dampness of the work area and the general health
of the victim.
(2) Effects. The effects of electrical shock are in direct proportion to the amount of current
that flows through the body. These effects may show up immediately or may be delayed. Some of the
delayed effects may appear days or even months later.
(a) Immediate effects:
Muscle paralysis.
Cardiac arrest (heart failure).
Ventricular fibrillation (discoordinated heart action).
(b) Delayed effects:
Loss of muscle coordination.
Deterioration of muscle and/or brain tissue.
Physiological problems.
the air through an antenna system connected to the transmitter. These radio frequencies can cause what
energy has been known to jump as far as 2 inches from the antenna. You should always use caution when
working around antennas, especially when the transmitter is keyed. Observe the warnings in the TM
pertaining to the equipment to determine the safe distance from antenna, antenna jacks, and cables.
c. Fuses are devices used to protect equipment and personnel from damage. When you must
replace a fuse, turn the power off, correct the problem that caused the fuse to blow, replace the fuse, and
turn the power on. When replacing a fuse, always ensure that it is of the same amperage and type (for
example, standard or slow blow).
d. Improper grounding may be detected by a slight tingle when you touch the equipment or by
an electrical shock. If either occurs, check for tightness of ground strap and proper ground strap (WD-1 is
not a proper ground strap). Use only an approved ground strap.
e. Work areas are often electrical hazards because of improper housekeeping techniques. Work
areas should always be kept dry and clean to prevent damage to equipment and/or personnel. However,
when you must work in a tactical environment, use common sense and be safety-conscious at all times. If
your work area is inside a building, you must have a safety board that is centrally located. The safety
board will have necessary equipment and instructions for rescuing personnel that are being electrically
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