Re: electrical deaths

On 12/1/24 9:59 AM, Joe Gwinn wrote:

On Sat, 30 Nov 2024 14:24:11 -0800, Joerg <news@analogconsultants.com>
wrote:
 

On 11/26/24 6:53 PM, john larkin wrote:

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Age-adjusted-mortality-rates-from-electrical-injuries-per-1-million-population-European_fig1_221916189
>
The US (0.63 PPM) is probably low partly because we have mostly 120
volt gadgets. I usually wire boxes hot, and get tickled now and then,
no big deal.
>
Some countries are astounding.
>

>
Twice the line voltage makes a difference. Also, some countries such as
Germany have non-polarized wall outlets which was a clear mistake on the
part of the standards guys. Think toasters and forks.

 We have polarized line plugs in the US, but the wiring old and new
isn't consistent, or becomes so over time.  And so people often
intentionally defeat the polarization.
 Part of the problem is that for many small appliances, the plug was
bigger than the appliance.  Probably more expensive too.
 Anyway, my instinct is that not polarizing plugs and sockets is more
realistic, as it forces manufacturers to pass safety regardless of hoe
things are plugged in.
 

Polarization can save the day with toasters and similar appliances. Then you can make sure that neutral comes in at the top end of the meanders. In the US, 99+ percent of cases will not have line and neutral reversed.

Joe Gwinn
 

--
Regards, Joerg
http://www.analogconsultants.com/