HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Can A Moment's Shock From A 120 Volts Electric Line Be Treated?

default
Posted on Tue, 17 Oct 2017
Question: how long can a person withstand an electric shock from 120V line, in milliseconds?I want to clarify, assume there is a mechanism that detects someone is being electrocuted and the mechanism shuts off the power. The process of detection and shutting off the power takes some time, therefore this time has to be shorter than the duration a person can be in contact with 120V
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shinas Hussain (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Depends on several factors.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for trusting Healthcaremagic.
I have gone through your query and I can understand your concerns.
The time period which you can withstand electrical current depends on the voltage and ampere of the current.
The severity of injury from electrical shock depends on the amount of electrical current and the length of time the current passes through the body. The skin is a very good insulator. Unless you have any wounds or cuts, it's usually safe up to 60V. In any case it's not voltage that kills, but current. 25 to 100 milliamps will do the job in most circumstances. 120 V is the usual household voltage and generally one can withstand.05 to .2 seconds. You don’t need to worry as circuit breakers will work instantly one you won’t get any shock.
Thanks
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Shinas Hussain

General Surgeon

Practicing since :2015

Answered : 23660 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Can A Moment's Shock From A 120 Volts Electric Line Be Treated?

Brief Answer: Depends on several factors. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for trusting Healthcaremagic. I have gone through your query and I can understand your concerns. The time period which you can withstand electrical current depends on the voltage and ampere of the current. The severity of injury from electrical shock depends on the amount of electrical current and the length of time the current passes through the body. The skin is a very good insulator. Unless you have any wounds or cuts, it's usually safe up to 60V. In any case it's not voltage that kills, but current. 25 to 100 milliamps will do the job in most circumstances. 120 V is the usual household voltage and generally one can withstand.05 to .2 seconds. You don’t need to worry as circuit breakers will work instantly one you won’t get any shock. Thanks