Why does nobody talk about how much voltage can leak through a bad ground in these older MRL machines?

I was checking a 2003 machine last Thursday and found 18 volts AC leaking through a corroded ground lug that got me wondering how many of us are walking around thinking everything is safe just because the disconnect is off.

3 comments

3 Comments

linda_dixon491mo ago

What's the big deal, is 18 volts really gonna hurt anyone or just give you a little tingle to keep you on your toes? Seems like a good way to remind folks to check their grounds more often.

kelly6381mo ago

Oh come on, you really think an 18 volt shock is just a harmless wake up call? Tell that to someone with a pacemaker or a heart condition who gets it across their chest. That little tingle could easily turn into a trip to the ER or worse. Most people don't even realize their hands are sweaty or they're standing on damp concrete when they grab a live wire. A shock that feels minor can still mess up your heart rhythm or make you jerk back into something sharp. Checking grounds more often is a good habit sure, but counting on a shock as a reminder is just reckless.

spencer_coleman1mo ago

18 volts across a wet chest with a pacemaker is one way to find out if your life insurance is paid up I guess lol.