OSHA 10 Hour Construction Program Practice Test

Which of the following choices falls under the category of indirect electrical injuries?

1. A fall from a ladder

2. A short circuit

3. Electrical burnout

4. Wire abrasion incidents

The correct answer is: A fall from a ladder

Indirect electrical injuries refer to harm that occurs as a result of an electrical hazard, but not from direct contact with the electrical source itself. When a worker is electrocuted or experiences an electrical shock, the immediate concern often revolves around the physical manifestations of the injury. However, indirect injuries can occur when a person is in a position that leads to harm because of electrical exposure. In this context, a fall from a ladder, resulting from an electrical shock, clearly exemplifies an indirect injury. For instance, if a worker touches a live wire and is startled or thrown off balance, they may fall and sustain injuries during the fall. This incident highlights how the electrical hazard indirectly caused physical harm. In contrast, incidents such as short circuits, electrical burnout, and wire abrasion involve direct interaction with electrical components or systems. These situations result typically from unsafe practices or equipment failure, leading to immediate electrical-related injuries and are classified as direct electrical injuries rather than indirect. This distinction clarifies why a fall from a ladder is categorized as an indirect electrical injury.