Experiencing an electrical shock at work can be frightening, and the effects are often misunderstood. Many people feel “fine” immediately after the incident, only to develop serious symptoms hours or even days later.
If you’ve been electrocuted at work, it’s important to understand the potential risks and take the right steps to protect both your health and your workers’ compensation claim.
Understanding the Physical Effects
Electrical injuries do not always show visible signs, but they can still affect the body in significant ways.
Common symptoms may include:
- A sudden “blank” or disoriented feeling during the shock
- Muscle pain or stiffness caused by intense involuntary contractions
- Fatigue, confusion, or a “foggy” mental state after the incident
In many cases, symptoms such as muscle and joint pain may worsen within 24 to 48 hours.
The Risk of Internal Injuries
One of the most important things to understand is that electrical injuries can cause internal damage, even without burns.
Potential complications include:
- Heart rhythm issues (cardiac arrhythmia): A shock can disrupt your heart’s normal rhythm, sometimes hours after the incident
- Neurological effects: These may include memory issues, mood changes, irritability, or even symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress
Because of these risks, it is critical not to ignore even a mild shock.
When Your Employer Minimizes the Incident
It is not uncommon for workplace electrocution incidents to be dismissed if there are no visible injuries. However, the absence of burns or external wounds does not mean the injury is minor.
Your symptoms are valid, and you have the right to seek medical evaluation and report the incident.
Important Steps to Take After an Electrical Shock
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel normal, go to an emergency room or urgent care facility. Inform them that you experienced a workplace electrical injury and request an EKG to check your heart.
Step 2: Report the Incident in Writing
Notify your employer as soon as possible and document it in writing (email or text) to create a time-stamped record.
Step 3: Document the Hazard
If it is safe to do so, take photos of the source of the shock, such as exposed wiring, faulty equipment, or unsafe conditions.
Step 4: Monitor for Delayed Symptoms
Over the next 48–72 hours, pay attention to any changes in your health, including:
- Heart palpitations
- Numbness or tingling
- Memory issues or confusion
- New or worsening pain
Keeping a record of these symptoms can be important for your medical care and claim.
How Workers’ Compensation Covers Electrical Injuries
In California, you do not need to prove that your employer was at fault to receive workers’ compensation benefits. You only need to show that the injury occurred at work.
Workers’ compensation may cover:
- Medical care: Including EKGs, diagnostic testing, and specialist visits
- Ongoing treatment: Such as neurological care or rehabilitation
- Lost wages: If your doctor advises you to take time off work
Get Help With Your Workers’ Comp Claim in San Diego
Electrical injuries can affect the entire body and may require specialized medical attention. It’s important that your symptoms are taken seriously and properly documented.
At The Law Office of Matt Russell, we represent injured workers in San Diego, and understand the complexities of workplace electrocution cases and electric shock claims. We work to ensure your condition is fully recognized and that you receive the care and benefits you deserve.
If you experienced an electrical shock at work and are not feeling like yourself, contact us today for a free evaluation of your case (619) 544-1506