Ground-Fault Circuit Protection:Preliminary Assessment of Technological Feasibility and Economic Impacts.

摘要

Consideration of the requirement for ground-fault circuit interrupters on construction sites stems from the many serious electrical shocks and electrocutions,and from the physical environment in which workers frequently are well grounded (to the earth) while exposed to numerous electric cords and power tools which are subject to wear and failure. The benefits that would accrue as a result of the alternative standards requiring ground-fault protection arise from a decrease in injuries,disabilities and fatalities. It is estimated that the number of 120-volt,ground-fault electrocutions,annually,on construction sites is in the range of 35to 75;the number of severe shocks is 2800to 6000. The two methods discussed,ground-fault circuit interrupters and an assured equipment grounding program,provide protection against line-to-ground fault currents. Both methods are effective in providing protection against the hazards of electric shock and electrocution. Overall economic impact is determined to be relatively slight.