The Dangers of Short Circuit

Posted On: March 27, 2018

Short Circuit: When Two Nodes of an Electric Circuit, intended to be at Different Voltages, Form an Abnormal Connection

The Resultant Electric Current Can Cause

Circuit Damage
Fires
Explosions
Overheating

A Short Circuit Fault is Thousands of Times More Powerful than Normal Operating Current

The Hazards

Short Circuits Can Cause Debilitating Injuries, and Even Fatalities, Among Electricity Workers
Energy Arcs from Short Circuits Cause Fires and Explosions - Which Result In Damaged Equipment

Workers Can Receive Shocks, Burns, and Injuries from Flying, Fragmented Metal Arc Explosions are Particularly Violent in Atmospheres with Flammable Gases, Vapors, and / or Combustible Dusts

Workers are at Risk of Becoming a Short Circuit Themselves

It Can Happen If the Worker Accidentally Touches a Hot Wire with Wet Hands

In Extreme Cases, Short Circuits Can Burn Down Houses and Entire Buildings

The Prevention

Short Circuits Can Be Reduced or Prevented through:

Fuses
Circuit Breakers
Overload Protection

Essentially, the power must be disconnected in reaction to excessive current.

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