LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completing this chapter, you should be able to do the following: 1. Describe electric shock and its effects on the human body.

2. Describe the procedures to follow for measuring voltages. 3. Describe electromagnetic radiation hazards.

4. Describe the tag-out bill and its responsibilities and procedures.

INTRODUCTION

Electronics safety is essential for the well-being of every Fire Controlman. If you, as a technician, are not thoroughly familiar with electronics safety, you may become the next casualty.

To be an effective Fire Controlman, you must be thoroughly familiar with all aspects of electronic safety. Statistics show that a high percentage of accidents and casualties could have been prevented if some specific precautionary measures had been taken. Common sense, good indoctrination, and training are required of all personnel maintaining and operating electronic equipment.

When working with electronic equipment, you should remember this rule: SAFETY FIRST. Dangerous voltages energize much of the equipment you work with.

Use the safety precautions outlined in this chapter to complement information given in your electronic equipment instructions. These instructions (applicable directives and equipment technical manuals) provide specific safety instructions. Before you perform maintenance on any equipment, be sure to observe all required safety precautions.

This topic discusses electric shock, voltage measurement, electromagnetic radiation hazards, tagout bills, and protective equipment.

ELECTRIC SHOCK

Electric shock is the sensation and muscular spasm caused when electric current passes through the body. The word current is underlined in the last sentence to emphasize that it is the current and NOT the voltage that causes electric shock. No matter how much voltage is present, you will be shocked only if you provide a ground path for the electric current.

The following excerpt from a mishap report shows just one result of not following proper safety procedures:

"While trying to adjust the alignment between coarse and fine synchros in the gun drive drawer, a Fire Controlman received a shock from a 115-volt source. While performing preventive maintenance, he discovered that the alignment did not meet the performance specifications required by the maintenance requirement card (MRC). After trying to align the synchros, he discovered that the fine synchro was faulty. To get into the synchro control box, he removed the insulation cover. While adjusting the synchro, the technician touched the exposed wiring on the synchro with his thumb, allowing 115 volts of alternating current to enter his thumb and forearm. He went to medical, after which the corpsman sent him to the naval hospital for evaluation and observation. He was released the next day, slightly damaged, but very much aware of the value of following safety procedures."

Ninety-nine percent of what you do in your job as a Fire Controlman, you will do around electricity. Since that makes you extremely susceptible to electric shock, it's very important for you to know the basics of electric shock, how to avoid being shocked, and how to treat victims of electric shock. The following section discusses those factors.

This section discusses the severity, avoidance, and victims of electric shock.