What is a second point of contact in electrical safety?

The concept of a second point of contact in electrical safety refers to the point where current can exit the body after potentially making contact with a live electrical source, commonly known as a "hot circuit." When someone touches an energized conductor, current does not flow just by that contact alone; it requires a complete circuit. For current to flow through a person, there must be another point of contact that allows the current to discharge, typically involving dangerous voltages or fault conditions.

Understanding this concept is critical for ensuring safe practices in environments where electrical hazards exist. If a person is standing on a conductive surface or has contact with another object that can serve as a ground, they create a pathway for electrical current to exit their body after it enters through a point of contact with a live circuit. This understanding emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper grounding and recognizing potential paths for electrical current in order to prevent serious injuries or fatalities.