What kind of hazard can relatively low voltage electrical shock cause?

• A. Severe burns
• B. Permanent brain damage
• C. Muscle paralysis
• D. Ventricular fibrillation

Answer: (D)

The correct answer highlights the risk of ventricular fibrillation, which is a serious and potentially fatal heart condition that can occur even with relatively low voltage electrical shocks. Ventricular fibrillation happens when the electrical signals in the heart become disorganized, leading to ineffective pumping of blood. This is particularly critical because it can result from electrical currents passing through the body, particularly if they traverse the heart area.

While severe burns, permanent brain damage, and muscle paralysis can also occur from electrical shocks, these outcomes relate more to the physical and electrical aspects of the shock rather than its immediate effects on the heart's rhythm. Ventricular fibrillation represents a direct, acute life-threatening cardiac response to electrical exposure, emphasizing the essential understanding of electrical hazards in the mining industry and the significance of adhering to safety protocols to protect individuals from such dangers.