If someone reports a static shock in the workplace, what is the first step you should take?

• A. Ignore the incident and continue working.
• B. Determine the exact area the shock was received and assess whether it could have been a real shock; if real, take them to health services for evaluation.
• C. Reassess after completing the shift with no action.
• D. Notify a supervisor and proceed with the work.

Answer: (B)

When a static shock is reported, the first step is to assess the situation for real risk. Focus on pinpointing exactly where the contact occurred and determine whether what happened could have been a genuine electrical shock rather than just a harmless static discharge. If there’s any possibility it was real, arrange for the worker to receive medical evaluation from health services right away. This approach prioritizes safety, helps uncover any underlying issues with grounding, equipment, or insulation, and prevents potential harm from being overlooked.

Ignoring the incident or continuing as if nothing happened risks unseen injuries or equipment faults. Waiting to reassess after a shift delays hazard identification and treatment. Simply notifying a supervisor and proceeding with work also bypasses necessary medical evaluation and safety checks.