Electrical Emergencies: Your Life-Saving Response Guide

Electrical Safety
English (NZ)

The Problem

Electricity is an invisible but deadly hazard. Each year, it causes numerous serious incidents on New Zealand worksites. Its unpredictability and the severity of its effects make electrical hazards extremely dangerous—just one small mistake can have fatal consequences. Knowing how to respond during the critical first moments of an emergency can save lives. Today, we’ll discuss the dangers of electricity, how to identify life-threatening situations, and the correct emergency responses that can protect you and your workmates.

Identify the Hazards

  • Electric Shock: As little as 50 milliamps can cause heart failure.

  • Burn Injuries: Electricity can cause deep internal burns.

  • Secondary Injuries: Shocks can lead to falls or other accidents.

Life-Threatening Situations:

  • Downed power lines energising the surrounding ground.

  • Damaged cords, plugs, or insulation.

  • Standing water near electrical sources.
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  • Buzzing sounds, hot panels, or flickering lights from equipment.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

Responding to Overhead Line Emergencies:

  • Keep at least 10 metres away from downed power lines.
  • Call emergency services (dial 111) and keep others away.
  • Never try to touch or move the lines.
  • If in a vehicle with a power line on it:

    • Stay inside and call for help.
    • If there’s a fire, jump clear with both feet together—don’t touch the vehicle and ground at the same time.

Helping Someone Being Electrocuted:

  • Shout for someone to call 111.
  • Do not touch the person while the power is live.
  • Shut off the power if safe to do so.
  • Use dry, non-conductive objects (like timber) to separate the person from the source.
  • Once safe, check for breathing and pulse, and start CPR if needed.

Preventative Measures:

  • Confirm all power is off before starting work.
  • Use the correct PPE, including insulated gloves and tools.
  • Maintain safe distances from power sources.
  • Report hazards and damaged equipment immediately.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

A worker unknowingly stepped into an energised zone around a downed power line. The electricity travelled through the ground, causing immediate cardiac arrest. In another incident, a well-meaning coworker tried to pull someone away from a live wire without isolating the source and became a second victim. These tragedies are avoidable with the right precautions and response.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Check for electrical hazards before beginning work.

  • Always wear the appropriate PPE.

  • Never attempt a rescue until the electrical source has been isolated.
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  • Report all unsafe equipment and conditions immediately.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Provide training on electrical safety and emergency response.

  • Maintain tools and equipment to a safe standard.

  • Supply compliant PPE and enforce its use.
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  • Clearly mark electrical hazards and establish emergency response plans.

Discussion & Questions

  • What electrical hazards have you seen on this site?
  • How would you respond if a workmate was being electrocuted?
  • Do you know the emergency response plan for your area?

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to recognising electrical hazards and responding correctly in emergencies. Starting today, inspect your work area for hazards and refresh your understanding of safe response procedures.

Wrap-Up

Electricity gives no second chances. With preparation, the right knowledge, and safe practices, we can avoid tragedy. Thanks for taking this time to put safety first—for yourself and your team.

Standards Overview

WorkSafe New Zealand’s regulations require:

  • Only trained and competent workers to work on or near electrical equipment.
  • Electrical equipment and installations to be regularly tested and inspected.
  • PPE and isolation procedures to be used when working with live equipment.
  • Emergency procedures to be understood and practised by all workers.

Disclaimer

These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.

The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.

It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.

The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

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Last Updated:
April 28, 2025