What three factors influence the extent of injury from an electrical contact?

The extent of injury from an electrical contact is primarily influenced by current, path, and duration. Current refers to the amount of electrical flow that passes through the body. A higher current increases the risk of severe injury or fatality, as more energy is available to disrupt normal physiological functions.

The path of electrical flow is crucial because it determines which parts of the body are exposed to the electrical current. For example, if the current travels through a vital organ, such as the heart, the potential for serious injury or death increases significantly.

Duration plays a significant role as well; the longer an individual is in contact with an electrical source, the greater the potential for harm. Extended exposure can lead to more significant bodily damage, as tissues may become severely affected or burned by the electrical flow.

Understanding these factors helps in assessing risks and implementing safety measures to prevent electrical injuries in lineman work and related fields.