03/10/2026
⚡Live Line XMSSN⚡
⚠️Yes — the majority of electrical hazard–related fatalities come from electric shock.
This statistic, shared by the Electrical Safety Foundation International and brought to my attention by my colleague Stephen Hester, CESCP, is both striking and frequently misunderstood.
Industry data shows that 98–99% of electrical fatalities are electrocutions (Death; Reference OSHA definition)❗
Here’s why that number matters.
💡These statistics are drawn from the ENTIRE labor workforce — and EVERY worker, across every industry, is potentially exposed to voltages above 50V.
But only a very small percentage of that workforce ever interacts with three‑phase electrical systems (Reference IEEE 1584) where the most violent arc flash hazards exist. While arc flash incidents can cause catastrophic injuries, the fatality data remains overwhelmingly driven by electric shock.
This is why electrocution — not arc flash — accounts for the majority of electrical deaths.
💡And this is also why we call it ElectriCAL Safety Training, not ElectriCIAN Safety Training💡
Contrary to what some may believe, electricity does not differentiate between roles, titles, or job descriptions. If you’re in its path, it can be fatal — whether you’re an electrician or not. Address the Task and the Hazard(s) and NOT the Title.
