Circuit breakers are designed to protect workers from electric shock.
A. True
B. False
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. False.
Circuit breakers are primarily designed to protect electrical circuits from damage due to overcurrent conditions, not specifically to protect workers from electric shock. When a circuit experiences an overload or short circuit, the circuit breaker automatically interrupts the flow of electricity by opening the circuit. This prevents the wires and components from overheating and potentially causing fires or further damage to the electrical system.
While circuit breakers contribute to overall safety by preventing electrical fires or equipment damage, they do not offer direct protection to individuals from electric shock. Worker protection against electric shock is typically achieved through other safety measures, such as proper grounding of electrical systems, insulation of wires, personal protective equipment (PPE) like rubber gloves and boots, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures during maintenance.
In addition, specialized equipment like residual current devices (RCDs), also known as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), is designed specifically to protect people from electric shock. These devices detect any leakage of current that could pose a danger to human beings and quickly disconnect the power, thereby preventing injury or death.
In summary, while circuit breakers are essential for protecting electrical systems from damage caused by electrical faults, they do not directly protect workers from the risk of electric shock. It is other safety devices, along with appropriate safety protocols, that provide the necessary protection for workers.