Smith-Root GPP 2.5 - Electrical Shock

15
USER’S MANUAL
www.smith-root.com
SAFE FISHING
Electroshing equipment uses voltages and currents that
can be lethal to humans. The operators must always keep
in mind that the chance of receiving an electrical shock is
multiplied in or near water. Using an electrosher is like
using a rearm: if used properly and with good judgment
it is perfectly safe; lose respect for it and you can lose your
life!
Electrical equipment used in a moist eld environment is
always subject to deterioration that could lead to dangerous
electrical shock. Field equipment is also subjected to
vibration and impact during transporting and while in
operation. Often equipment shared by different crews does
not receive proper maintenance or a complete checkout.
Follow the safety guidelines, and use good common sense
to handle unforeseen circumstances.
All personnel involved in electroshing should be taught
the fundamentals of electricity, and have an understanding
of the safety requirements.
The most important factor in electroshing efciency and
safety is the training and experience of the crew. At least
two members of the crew should be qualied to administer
cardiopulmonary resuscitation. As oppor tu nities arise, all
crew members should attend a course in basic life-support
training.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK
It is the current that passes through the human body that
does the damage. The voltage is relevant, because it is
the force that “pushes” the current through the body.
Experiments show that 20 to 500 Hz AC current is more
dangerous than DC, or higher frequencies of AC.
The voltages used by electroshing gear cause death by
one of three means:
Ventricular Fibrillation
Ventricular fibrillation is uncoordinated contraction of
the muscles of the heart. The heart quivers rather than
beats. Electrical current through the chest can cause this
condition. Once a person goes into ventricular brillation,
the only way to stop the quivering is to use a debrillator
that applies a pulse shock to the chest to restore heart
rhythm. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation may help to keep a
victim alive until he can be debrillated.
Respiratory Arrest
The respiratory center is at the base of the skull. Thus,
shocks to the head can cause the breathing to stop. Articial
respiration by the mouth-to-mouth method should be used
in this case.
Asphyxia
Asphyxia is caused by contraction of the chest muscles.
ELECTROFISHING SAFETY
SAFETY