Effectiveness of a worker-worn electric-field sensor to detect power-line proximity and electrical-contact.
OBJECTIVE
Construction workers suffer the most electrocutions among all industries. Currently, there are no electrical contact warning devices on the market to protect workers. This paper proposes a worker-worn electric-field sensor. As the worker is in proximity to, or in contact with, a live power-circuit, the sensor sets off an audible/visual warning alarm. The sensor also has the potential to wirelessly trip a wireless-capable circuit breaker, and to trigger a wireless transmitter to notify emergency response of an electrical contact.


METHODS
An experiment was conducted to measure electric-field variation on simulated human-wrists (10 defrosted hog-legs) in various proximities and in electrical-contact to a simulated power-circuit. The purpose of these tests was to determine the feasibility of developing a worker-worn electric-field detection sensor for use in protecting workers from contact with energized electrical conductors.


RESULTS
This study observed a significant electric-field-magnitude increase as a hog-leg approaches the live-circuit, and the distinct electric-field-magnitude jump as the leg contacts with the live-circuit. The observation indicates that this sensor can be an effective device to warn the workers of electrical hazards. Additionally, the sensor has the potential to wirelessly trip a wireless-capable circuit-breaker and trigger a wireless transmitter (such as a cell phone) to notify an emergency response. The prompt notification prevents the worker from further injury caused by postponed medical-care.


CONCLUSIONS
Widespread use of this sensor could lower electrocution and electrically related injury rates in the construction industry.
Zeng
Shengke
S
Division of Safety Research, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, USA. szeng@cdc.gov
Powers
John R
JR
Newbraugh
Bradley H
BH
D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004556:Electric Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004560:Electricity / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D009314:National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, U.S.; D016272:Occupational Health; D017751:Safety Management; D014481:United States; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control