Did you know that faulty wiring and damaged electrical cords used in docks and boats can cause nearby water to become energized? When swimmers comes in contact with a leaked electrical current, the result can be a loss of muscle control or paralysis that makes it impossible for the victim to swim, as well as rapid or irregular heartbeat — and possibly even electric shock drowning (ESD).
What you should do
Check wiring on docks and boats often. An event as common as a few days of bad weather can cause damage and needlessly increase risk of the occurrence of an ESD.
Before your next lake party check out this safety share, courtesy of Cheryl Nelson (HSE), to learn how you can keep your friends and family safe. Feel free to print this info and use it to help kick off a team discussion at your next meeting with colleagues and/or staff.
All employees are encouraged to submit safety shares for inclusion in the Safety Share Library. Submission details are available on Inside Argonne.
Each month a safety share submitted by an individual will be selected to receive a Spot Award for demonstrated safety leadership. The Spot Award program offers three award levels: gold ($100), silver ($50) and bronze ($25).