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Electric Shock Accident Case Study

The document outlines a case study on an electric shock accident that resulted in a worker's death during a construction project in Sabah. It details the investigation process, including accident observations, witness statements, and the identification of unsafe working conditions and lack of proper personal protective equipment (PPE). The report emphasizes the importance of preventive actions to mitigate such risks in the future, including adherence to safety protocols and proper training for workers.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
13 views21 pages

Electric Shock Accident Case Study

The document outlines a case study on an electric shock accident that resulted in a worker's death during a construction project in Sabah. It details the investigation process, including accident observations, witness statements, and the identification of unsafe working conditions and lack of proper personal protective equipment (PPE). The report emphasizes the importance of preventive actions to mitigate such risks in the future, including adherence to safety protocols and proper training for workers.

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2022457882
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

SCHOOL OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING,

UNIVERSITY TEKNOLOGI MARA (UiTM)


individual ASSESSMENT
OSH AND MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY (MEC 640)

CASE STUDY NO DUE DATE SUBMISSION REMARKS


DATE
8 -on time/- late

LECTURER NAME DR. IZDIHAR BINTI THARAZI

Name Student ID
FERDINAND DANA ANAK ALEXANDER 2022457882

GENERAL LEVEL POOR MARGIN ACCEPTAB GOOD EXCELLENT


GUIDELINES: AL LE
Scale 1-2 3-4 5,6 7,8 9,10

Assessment Criteria (Report) Weight (w) Scale (y) Total= w * y


Introduction 10
Content/ Diagrams/Figures/ Discussion and Conclusion
Part A- Accident Investigation 40
Part B- Preventative Action 20
Part C - Identification 20
Front cover, Report Format, Language and 10
Organization, References, and citation
TOTAL 100%

REMARKS:

1
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Case study ............................................................................................................................... 4
2.0 Part A: Accident investigation .................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Scope of investigation .............................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Overview of the accident.......................................................................................................... 6
2.2.1 Observation of accident ..................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Fact and analysis ...................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.1 Chronology of the accident................................................................................................ 8
2.3.2 Witness statement ............................................................................................................ 9
2.3.3 Summary collecting and gathering information................................................................ 11
2.3.4 Relevant DOSH documents ............................................................................................. 13
2.4 Investigation result ................................................................................................................. 15
3.0 Part B: Preventive actions ....................................................................................................... 16
3.1 Eliminations........................................................................................................................... 17
3.2 Substitution............................................................................................................................ 17
3.3 Engineering controls .............................................................................................................. 17
3.4 Administrative controls .......................................................................................................... 18
3.5 Personal protective equipment (PPE)...................................................................................... 18
4.0 Part C: Professional ethics and principles .............................................................................. 19
5.0 Conclusion................................................................................................................................ 20
6.0 References ................................................................................................................................ 21

2
1.0 Introduction

Electric shock accidents are frightening situations that occur when an electric current comes into touch
with the human body. Depending on parameters such as the strength of the electric current, the time of
exposure, and the channel the current travels through the body, the severity of such mishaps can range
from minor pain to life-threatening damage.

Electric shocks may occur in a variety of contexts, including homes, workplaces, and outdoor areas.
Faulty wiring, broken electrical equipment, and risky work practices are all common reasons.
Understanding the dangers of electric shock is critical for both prevention and quick reaction to
minimize possible injury.

Figure 1: Warning electric shock sign.

In this scenario, it's critical to recognize the signs and symptoms of electric shock, which can include
burns, muscular spasms, trouble breathing, and, in severe situations, cardiac arrest. Immediate
responses, such as phoning for emergency medical aid and giving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),
can make a major difference in the outcome of an electric shock occurrence.

Preventive measures, such as correct electrical installations, frequent inspections, and personnel
electrical safety training, are critical in lowering the likelihood of electric shock incidents. This
introduction intends to emphasize the significance of being alert, taking precautions, and acting quickly
in the event of an electric shock occurrence to protect persons from potential injury and promote a safer
living and working environment.

3
1.1 Case study

Date  26/04/2023

Title case  A worker died from electric shock


Location  Construction, Sabah
Case summary  A worker was assigned to install a safety alarm system
after being electrocuted due to coming into contact
with a damaged and exposed wire connection of a
lamp.

Case classifications  Fatal injuries (Dead).


Contributing factors  The electrical wiring system and electrical installation
were unsafe.
 The use of electrical cables on unsafe additional
sockets.

4
2.0 Part A: Accident investigation

2.1 Scope of investigation

As a safety officer, I conducted an accident investigation to examine the accident. Several scope
investigations have been identified, including a review of employee statements, standard operating
procedures, and equipment testing. The investigation's goal is to determine the core cause of the disaster
and guarantee that it does not happen again in the future. The diagram below depicts an example of the
investigative procedure that a safety officer should follow when an accident happens at work.

Deal with Select the level


Investigate the
immediate of
event
risks investigation

Record and
Review the
analyse the
process
results

Figure 2: Accident investigation process

Other methods used by Safety Officers to acquire information and evidence linked to an accident:

 Observation
 Witness
 Documentation
 Interview

5
2.2 Overview of the accident

On April 26, 2023, about 11:00 a.m., the victim was mortally injured and pronounced dead on his
ground. One of his coworkers from the same department discovered him. The victim was supposed to
install a safety alarm system but was electrocuted after getting in touch with a lamp's defective and
exposed wire connection.

Figure 3: Victim being confirmed dead on his ground.

6
2.2.1 Observation of the accident

According to the observations made at the accident scene as in figure 4, the electrical wiring system
and electrical installation were both dangerous. Because the wires are damaged and exposed, this might
result in electrical shock. The body of the victim becomes a part of the electric circuit when it comes
into contact with both wires of an electrical circuit, one wire of an energized circuit and the ground, or
a metallic part that has become energized by contact with an electrical conductor. There is also the use
of electric cables on unsafe additional sockets as in figure 5.

Figure 4: Unsafe wiring system.

Figure 5: Cables on unsafe additional sockets.

7
2.3 Fact and analysis
2.3.1 Chronology of the accident

DATE TIME REMARKS


8.00 A.M
 The victim and other coworkers arrived at the construction site.

8.30 A.M  The victim and his coworkers are briefed by a supervisor.

9.00 A.M
 The victim and his coworkers have breakfast first while waiting for their
work permit to be confirmed.

10.00 A.M  The victim and his coworkers arrived at their workplace to begin their
duties.

 The victim and his coworkers brought all the necessary equipment for
their task.

10.15 A.M  The victim was separated from his coworkers because he was assigned
26.4.2023 to install a safety alarm system.

11.00 A.M
 It took nearly 45 minutes to spot the victim.

 One of the coworkers noticed the victim on the ground and rushed to aid
him.
 Unfortunately, the victim died at the spot.
 The coworker then phones their supervisor to report the event.
 The supervisor then calls the police and ambulance
11.20 A.M
 Police and an ambulance were dispatched to the location..

 Police close the scene only for authorities


11.40 A.M
 The victim's body was sent to the hospital for a postmortem examination.

11.45 A.M  Police took over the place of the accident

12.30 P.M  The accident site is investigated by the safety officer and the medical
team.
*All times above are approximation during the accident

8
2.3.2 Witness statement

ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION WITNESS STATEMENT


ACCIDENT/INCIDENT
A worker died from electric shock

PERSON MAKING STATEMENT (last, first, middle) HOME PHONE


Cho Tien Ming NUMBER
013-7675488

HOME ADDRESS (street, city, state, zip code) WORK PHONE


No. 47, The Sutera Residency, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah NUMBER
-

EMPLOYMENT (occupation and location)


Technician

LOCATION STATEMENT NAME OF INVESTIGATOR TAKING DATE TIME


TAKEN STATEMENT STARTED
Construction site, Kota Kinabalu Mehraj Hassan (Safety Officer 2) 26/04/2023, 2.00 P.M

STATEMENT
Q: I heard you had an excellent connection with the victim; is this true?

A: Yes, we are both from the same industry. We are continuously working together to complete our tasks.

Q: Did you know that the victim installed the safety alarm system without supervision?

A: Yes, he stated that he was assigned to do it alone, which is why I am not with him at the location
today.

Q: Why isn't the supervisor accompanying him to the job site?

A: Our supervisor, according to him, needs to take care of other work-related matters, but he was
entrusted to complete the job correctly. He also stated that he was confident in his ability to do the task.

Q: What is the scenario while you are on the job site?

A: That was terrible. We need to be cautious with the cable because much of it is broken and exposed.
So, it was quite unsafe, and since he was alone, I assume he didn't want to follow the SOP, which would
have required him to set aside the unused broken wire before installing the alarm system.

Q: Okay, Thank you for your information.

DATE/TIME ENDED
Cho Tien Ming
SIGNATURE OF PERSON GIVING STATEMENT 2.30 PM

9
ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION WITNESS STATEMENT
ACCIDENT/INCIDENT
A worker died from electric shock

PERSON MAKING STATEMENT (last, first, middle) HOME PHONE


Robert Andee NUMBER
019-4649626

HOME ADDRESS (street, city, state, zip code) WORK PHONE


Taman Bakti Ikhlas/Sri Setia Apartment, Off Jalan Puri Warisan, Kota Kinabalu, NUMBER
Sabah -

EMPLOYMENT (occupation and location)


Technician

LOCATION STATEMENT NAME OF INVESTIGATOR TAKING DATE TIME


TAKEN STATEMENT STARTED
Construction site, Kota Kinabalu Mehraj Hassan (Safety Officer 2) 26/04/2023, 2.40 P.M

STATEMENT
Q: You are the first one to notice the victim, correct?

A: I am, indeed.

Q: What happens to the victim scenario when you get to the scene of the accident?

A: I noticed him lying on the ground. I called him, but I received no response. I don't want to risk
anything because we're working with electrical components, so I don't touch him because he may get
electrocuted. But sadly, he was electrocuted. So, I phoned our supervisor to report the situation.

Q: Is the victim able to speak or move his body?

A: When I arrived, the victim was already dead at the site due to the lack of movement.

Q: Is that the victim wearing any PPE when first you saw the body?

A: Yes, but not with full PPE. He does wear a safety helmet and boots, however I noted he does not wear
gloves when working with electric cables.

Q: Okay, Thank you for your information.

DATE/TIME ENDED
Robert Andee
SIGNATURE OF PERSON GIVING STATEMENT 3.10 PM

10
2.3.3 Summary collecting and gathering information.
The safety officer and employer can begin to fully investigate the event by autopsying the victim's body,
using the WHO (who became the victim), WHY (why the victim was electrocuted), and WHAT (what
is the event that led to the victim that caused the victim electrocuted) questions to solve the puzzle. In
addition, there are three investigative procedures for obtaining information and determining the cause
of the accident.

Figure 6: Observation, documentation, and interview

Using the procedures described above, the safety officer can gather a wealth of information about the
accident for further inquiry, ultimately determining the underlying cause. The information obtained is
summarized below:

11
Investigation method Gained information
Observation  The victim does not wear full PPE to work with
electrical components.
 The electrical wiring system and electrical
installation were unsafe.
 The use of electrical cables on unsafe additional
sockets.
Documentation  The work performed is not following the SOP from
the work permit.
Interview  The victim was working alone as he was the only
one assigned to install a safety alarm system.
 The victim works under unsafe working areas as the
cables at the area are mostly damaged and exposed.
 The victim also used some electrical cables on
unsafe sockets.
 The victim does not wear full PPE while doing his
job.

12
2.3.4 Relevant DOSH documents

When an accident occurs at a workplace, the occurrence must be reported to the local DOSH office and
documented, even if it is a minor accident or incident. The occurrence must be documented using
applicable forms from the Malaysian Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH). The
event must then be analyzed to establish the dangers and risks. These dangers and risks are then handled
to ensure that the same situation does not occur again. The appropriate DOSH forms and their usage are
shown below.

Type of document Description


JKKP 6  To report on occupational accident/dangerous
occurrence
JKKP 7  To report on occupational
poisoning/occupational disease
JKKP 9  Information on accident occupational Safety and
Health (Notification of accident, dangerous
occurrence,occupational poisoning, and
occupational disease)

 The forms mentioned above may be obtained immediately from the DOSH website to record
any workplace accidents and update the information with the DOSH department.
 The accident "A worker died from electric shock" at a construction site in Sabah was recorded
by the Safety Officer and reported to the DOSH for further investigation.

13
Figure 7: Example of JKKP 6 form

14
2.4 Investigation result
For safety reasons, all workers on a construction site must wear complete PPE. The victim died from
electric shock because he did not wear gloves (a piece of PPE). He was in close touch with electric
current since he moved some broken and exposed electric lines with his bare hands. He had to split
from his coworkers since he was the only one assigned to install a security alarm system, which resulted
in no oversight to monitor his performance. Because the victim must perform his job alone, he may
disregard all safety measures and standard operating procedures (SOP) while working because there
will be no one to remind him. Aside from that, the victim was observed working in hazardous situations.
Most of the electric lines were broken and exposed, and some were even utilized on potentially
dangerous extra outlets. According to the victim coworkers, he used to be a guy who knows how to
operate in dangerous situations. However, the danger of dealing with electrical components is too great
since it might result in serious injuries or death.

The facts and information were gathered from witnesses and close relatives through interviews and
observation of the accident scene. The officials and police handle the victim's body and notify their
relatives. As a safety officer, any accidents that occur must be recorded and analyzed. The investigative
system should be audited on a regular basis to ensure that it consistently produces information in
compliance with the specified goals and criteria. Examine any processes that might be improved to
handle the accident more effectively. Ensure that any dangers identified in the previous step have been
addressed by removing those hazards via either elimination, replacement, engineering control,
administrative control, or PPE. Improve any essential items to avoid the same accident happening again
in the future.

15
3.0 Part B: Preventive actions

Hazards are something we can't avoid in our daily lives. The element was also present in our home.
Several measures, however, can be used to eliminate, control, or lessen the risk. The figure below
depicts the ways for eliminating, controlling, or reducing the hazard.

Figure 8: Hierarchy of hazard control

Information below is discussed about hierarchy of hazard controls for accident “A worker died from
electric shock” that occurs it construction site, Sabah.

16
3.1 Elimination

 Avoid working alone and without supervision.


The SOP for installing a security alarm system requires a supervisor to watch the workers as
they do their tasks. This is due to the fact that the working environment is extremely hazardous,
and someone with more expertise working in such settings must be there to avoid any accidents.

3.2 Substitution

 Replace the damaged and exposed cable with the new one.
Make sure the electric lines are in excellent condition before installing the security alarm
system. If required, replace it with a new one to eliminate any safety risks.

 Repair the electric sockets.


Before utilizing an electric plug outlet, any harmful condition should be corrected. This is done
to guarantee that other electrical components that require sockets function effectively and
safely.

3.3 Engineering controls

 Fault detection
The system should be able to identify electrical wiring issues. Sensors or monitoring devices
that detect anomalies, such as exposed cables or defective connections, might be included.

 Emergency shutdown
The alarm system might be designed to trigger an emergency shutdown of the power supply in
case of a detected fault. This can help minimize the risk of electrocution and other electrical
accidents.

17
3.4 Administrative controls

 Permit to work (PTW)


To guarantee that work is done safely and that all required safeguards are followed to avoid
accidents. The scope of work is clearly defined in the permit, including the location, nature of
the activity, and any special criteria or restrictions that must be satisfied. Permission is issued
subject to the requirements indicated. This might include safety considerations, equipment
requirements, and any other extra precautions that must be performed.

 Standard of working procedure (SOP)


Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) must be followed in the electrical sector to guarantee the
safety, efficiency, and consistency of work procedures. It outlines the duties and responsibilities
of those working in the electrical department, such as electricians, supervisors, and safety
officers. Also outline the actions for preparing the jobsite, such as disconnecting electrical
systems, securing access, and communicating with other workers.

 Training and awareness


Increase the importance of training programs for all electrical personnel. Make certain that they
are well-versed in safety precautions and emergency procedures.

3.5 Personal protective equipment (PPE)

 Safety helmet
Worn to protect the head from falling objects, impact, or electric shock.

 Electrical safety equipment


Insulating Gloves: Used by electricians to protect against electric shock.
Arc Flash Clothing: Designed to protect against arc flash incidents.

 Safety shoes
Designed with reinforced toes and soles to protect against impact, punctures, or electrical
hazards.

18
4.0 Part C: Professional ethics and principles
Based on the findings of the inquiry, management and employees should adhere to proper workplace
ethics and values to maintain the integrity of their work. To boost productivity, effective organizations
are recognized to adopt professional ethical practices and ideals. The following are some of the case
study's relevant ethics and concepts.

 Obey all company rules and regulations.


Obeying all corporate rules and regulations is unquestionably necessary for sustaining a good
and productive work environment. Adhering to these standards adds to the overall success of
the business by ensuring the seamless operation of the organization. Many laws and regulations
are in place to safeguard employee safety. This covers equipment handling rules, emergency
procedures, and other safety standards. Clear standards help to create a more productive
working atmosphere. When everyone knows and follows the rules, confusion is reduced, and
employees can focus on their jobs.

 Effectively communicate.
In the workplace, effective communication is critical for encouraging cooperation, efficiency,
and a happy working environment. When it comes to problem-solving in the workplace,
effective communication is very important. Clearly explain the problem so that everyone
engaged has a common knowledge of it. If any component of the situation is unclear, seek
clarification. To guarantee that everyone is on the same page, encourage others to ask questions.
Make sure that everyone is involved so that any future accidents may be avoided.

 Accountability
Accountability at work is critical for cultivating a culture of accountability, trust, and high
performance. All team members should have a clear understanding of their roles,
responsibilities, and performance expectations. Define explicit goals and objectives so that
everyone is on the same page. Ensure that staff have the resources and assistance they need to
carry out their duties. Identify and resolve any impediments to performance. Accountability is
built on trust. Create a culture in which workers are trusted to carry out their responsibilities.
Employees that are trusted are more likely to take responsibility of their responsibilities.

19
5.0 Conclusion

In conclusion, the research into the electric shock disaster uncovered several crucial variables
that contributed to the tragedy. The principal reason was a dangerous working environment in
which the electric lines were broken and exposed. This event ended in a worker dying from
electric shock after coming into touch with the damaged and exposed electric lines,
emphasizing the need of taking a proactive approach to electrical safety in the workplace.

Moving ahead, it is critical to take prompt action to resolve the highlighted concerns. This
involves replacing equipment, improving training programs, and improving safety standards.
Furthermore, regular training programs should be undertaken to ensure that all people are
knowledgeable about electrical safety protocols and are prepared to respond appropriately in
the event of an emergency.

In addition, a thorough assessment of our present safety rules and procedures is needed to
identify any potential gaps and take extra steps to prevent future electric shock accidents.
Electrical systems and equipment should be inspected on a regular basis, and a reporting system
for possible risks should be implemented to allow for early response.

It is critical that all staff be attentive and rigorously adhere to safety requirements. The
corporation will also investigate the potential to invest in modern technology and safety devices
to reduce the danger of electrical mishaps even more.

Finally, preventing electric shock incidents needs a team effort from all levels of the
organization. We can promote a safer work environment for all employees by establishing a
safety culture, offering continual training, and swiftly resolving recognized concerns.

This study is meant to serve as a basis for continuous safety improvements as well as a reminder
of the necessity of prioritizing electrical safety in the workplace.

20
6.0 References

[1] Gupta, V. K. (2010). Electrical Safety: Safety and Health for Electrical Trades. Jones
& Bartlett Learning
[2] Bowditch, C. H., Bowditch, A. D., & Bowditch, L. E. (2010). Electrician's Guide to
Emergency Lighting. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
[3] B. -H. Ryu, H. -S. Kim, W. -J. Jung, and S. -W. Lee, "Electric Shock Prevention
Measures for Low Voltage Electrical Facilities", Occupational Safety and Health
Research Institute, pp. 3-26, 2009.
[4] Leslie Alexander Geddes, Rebecca A. Roeder, Handbook of Electrical Hazards and
Accidents Lawyers & Judges Publishing Company, 2006 ISBN 0913875449, page 29.
[5] Clifford D. Ferris, Electric Shock, chapter 22.1 in Jerry C. Whitaker (ed.) The
Electronics Handbook, CRC Press, 2005, ISBN 0-8493-1889-0, pp. 2317-2324
[6] "Employer's Rights and Responsibilities Following an OSHA Inspection". Department
of Labor. Archived from the original on August 31, 2014.

21

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