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Electrical Shocks

Lesson Progress

Electrical Shocks

12V and 24V Electrical Systems

12V and 24V Batteries are stored energy devices and unlike an electrical circuit found in the home, they do not have a circuit breaker to trip if the battery is connected improperly or short-circuited. Workers have to exercise caution to prevent short circuits or sparks when handling and removing 12V or 24V vehicle batteries using metallic tools or conductive materials. 

Electric Hybrid Vehicles

The service, repair, or maintenance of Electric & Hybrid Vehicles (EHV) can cause severe electrical shock resulting in serious injury or death to workers. Voltages that are present in electric and hybrid vehicles (EHVs) are significantly higher (currently up to 800 Volts direct current (dc)) than those used in other vehicles (12/24 Volts dc).

In dry conditions, accidental contact with parts that are live at voltages above 70-90 volts dc can be fatal. For EHVs, dc voltages between 60 and 1500 Volts are referred to as ‘high voltage’. EHV battery systems may contain chemicals that are harmful if released and they also store significant amounts of energy that can cause an explosion if not handled correctly.