Electrocution: first, cut the power
- Cut the power before anything else (main switch or switchboard).
- If you need to separate the person, always use an insulating object or clothing, never your hands.
- Call 112. If they are unconscious and breathing, put them in the recovery position; if they are not breathing, start CPR.
Your rights and your duties
- Your employer must give you adequate training and information on electrical risk and prevention measures (RD 614/2001, article 5), free and during working hours (Act 31/1995, article 19).
- You must report immediately to your supervisor any situation you see as a risk: a burnt socket, a bare wire, an open switchboard (Act 31/1995, article 29).
- If a task involves a serious and imminent risk to your life or health, you have the right to stop it and leave the place (article 21).
In practiceYou are asked to «take a quick look» at the switchboard because you are the
handiest person on the team. If you are not authorised, say no and tell the person in charge: it is not lack of goodwill, it
is what the law says.
Source: Basque Government, Osakidetza and 112 SOS Deiak: «Primeros auxilios» poster (first aid, in Spanish), electrocution · Ley 31/1995, de Prevención de Riesgos Laborales (Occupational Risk Prevention Act, in Spanish), articles 19, 21 and 29 · Real Decreto 614/2001, sobre protección frente al riesgo eléctrico (Royal Decree on protection against electrical risk; consolidated text, in Spanish), article 5