ELECTRIC SHOCK

ELECTRIC SHOCK

Rear view of a lightning-strike survivor, displaying Lichtenberg figure on skin

Why all the concern over proper wiring? The answer is simple: an electric current flowing through your body can kill you. Even voltages as low as 30 volts can be dangerous under certain conditions. However, it is not the voltage, but rather the current level that matters. Ever work on an automobile engine and get shocked by the ignition circuit? If so, it’s likely that something in the order of 20,000 volts was conducted through you body. Fortunately there is not enough conducted current to hurt you.

How does the current affect you? Anything below 5 milliamperes (mA) is probably harmless. If the current increases to 50 mA, you will experience pain and muscular contractions that may prevent you from “letting go.” Over 100 mA, the heart will be affected and may cause death in people with heart problems or if the current is sustained. For safety sake, always place the power switch (either the master switch or transmitter high voltage power switch) where it is obvious to anyone and can be easily reached. Someone else may have to throw the switch of you can’t let go.