Electrical and Fire Safety in the OR

Abstract

In the OR, electrical shocks and fire represent two very important risks and they occur more commonly than most people recognize. Electrical and fire safety in the OR is every team member’s responsibility. Prevention is the first step, but when incidents occur, optimal outcomes depend on concerted efforts. Thisapproach, along with a comprehensive electrical and fire safety program, is a continued effort to create a safer healthcare environment for every worker and patient. Understanding the basic principles of electricity and fire safety is the first step towards this goal. Unfortunately, many institutions do not involve the key players (surgery and anesthesia department members) in the education and preparation process. By involving all team members, optimal outcomes for patients at this vulnerable time may be achieved. Our patients expect us to know the risks and management of these potentially life-threatening occurrences. This chapter endeavours to facilitate these goals.   This review contains 9 figures, 3 tables, and 51 references Keywords: electrosurgical unit, fire extinguisher, ground fault circuit interrupter, grounding, ignition source, line isolation monitor, macroshock, microshock, Ohm law