Safety Flash
Attempted service to microwave results in fatal electrocution
Attempted service to microwave results in fatal electrocution
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 08/03
- Electrical Safety
- Electric shockElectrical safety
- Electrical workInspection and maintenance
- Energy and process isolationOperating and work procedures
Summary
An experienced electrician died while attempting to service a microwave with the power on, despite prominent warnings. Current passed through his body to ground via an adjacent ice-making machine. The company subsequently prohibited on-site repairs of domestic equipment containing high-voltage components and directed repair through authorised vendors.
Classifications: Electric shock; electrocution.
Classifications: Electrical safety; electrical hazards.
Classifications: Electrical work; electrical maintenance.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Energy and process isolation; isolation; energy isolation.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Summary
A fatality occurred when a microwave was serviced while energised, prompting prohibition of onboard repairs to high-voltage domestic equipment.
IMCA SF 08/03. Themes: electrical safety.